Ferrari Roma Spider: dolce vita in the open sky with 612 hp

The open-top Roma weighs only 84 kg more than its hard-top counterpart

Η Ferrari Roma Spider is the latest convertible model added to the Prancing Horse range. It combines the subtly retro styling of a fixed roof with a retractable fabric roof that closes in 13.5 seconds at speeds of up to 60km/h.

The retractable soft top necessitates a slightly different design for the Roma Spider. The designers modified the shape of the rear window. The rear cover has a body-colored lining that divides the surface into two sections to allow for roof storage. The lower section is integrated into an active carbon fiber airfoil.

Ferarri will offer buyers the possibility to choose specialised fabrics and contrasting stitching for the roof. To keep passengers comfortable with the roof down, there is an electrically activated windshield integrated into the back of the rear seat.

Like the coupe, the Roma Spider features a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 612bhp between 5,750 and 7,500rpm. Maximum torque is 760 Nm, which is available from 3,000 to 5,750 rpm. The engine's redline is at 7,500 rpm. The only transmission option is a dual-clutch, eight-speed automatic.

Ferrari estimates that the Roma Spider reaches 62 km/h in 3.4 seconds and 124 km/h in 9.7 seconds. For comparison, the hardtop model also reaches 62 km/h in 3.4 seconds, but 124 km/h in 9.3 seconds. Ferrari reports a top speed of over 320 km/h for both.

The Roma Spider weighs 84 kg more than the hardtop model. The increase comes mainly from the roof opening system. The electric windshield also adds weight.

The Roma Spider is expected to be able to keep passengers comfortable over long distances. Front passengers have 18-way power-adjustable seats that are heated, with an optional neck warmer available. The rest of the interior is like the coupe, where the tall center console creates separate compartments for front passengers. The layout includes a digital instrument panel for the driver. There's an 8.4-inch center screen, and buyers can specify an optional screen on the passenger side.

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