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New 488 Spider: Ferrari’s hottest drop-top yet

Frankfurt – The new 488 Spider, unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt auto show, marks the latest chapter in Ferrari's history with open-top V8 sports cars.

It's the most high-performance Spider yet powered by the 488 coupe’s 3902cc turbo-charged V8 capable of 492kW/760Nm linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

The 488 Spider equals its tin-top sibling's 0-100km/h sprint of three seconds though it loses 5km/h at the top end speed of 325km/h.

Gallery: 2015 Ferrari 488 Spider

The new drop-top uses a new chassis made from, the automaker says, 11 different 6000 series aluminium alloys. According to Ferrari: "This yields the same torsional rigidity and beam stiffness figures as the coupe, in which the roof is a structural element, improving the chassis’ performance by 23% over that of the 458 Spider."

The Spider uses a RHT (retractable hard top) which debuted in the 458 Spider. Ferrari says the RHT has rendered traditional soft-tops obsolete as it is not only lighter (-25kg) but also provides better protection from noise and elements. When lowered it has a glass wind-stop adjustable to three different positions. The roof can be raised or lowered in 14 seconds.

Ready to command the road. #Ferrari #488Spider #IAA2015

A photo posted by Ferrari USA (@ferrariusa) on

The convertible's new side slip angle control system (SSC2) makes it easier for non-professional drivers to reach the limit of the new Spider's potential. Additionally, to ensure superb fun behind the wheel on more challenging routes, the 488 Spider responds virtually instantaneously to steering wheel inputs (0.06 seconds or 9% faster than the previous Spider).

CarPlay system

Ferrari also announced the new Apple CarPlay system will extend to its entire range. The FF was the first car in the world to adopt the innovative iPhone feature, followed by the California T. The Apple CarPlay will soon be available for the sportier, more aggressive Prancing Horse models - the 488 GTB, the 488 Spider and the F12berlinetta.

Click here for more New Models at the 2015 Frankfurt auto show

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