When purchased: August 2015
From: Meridien Modena (new)
Price: £228,000
Ext colour: Yellow
Int colour: Blue
Engine: 4.5L, V8, naturally aspirated
Gearbox: Automatic
Is this my favourite car in the collection? Yes I think it probably is.
After all I got offered this ultra-limited (1 of 499) Ferrari against all the odds, I specced it, and I picked it up from the Ferrari factory and drove it home. And I’ve not been too precious about it either. It’s now done over 6,000 miles (what’s the average for an Aperta do you think - 500?). I’ve driven it to Scotland and back, across Europe, and to many car events, including the Heaveningham Hall concours and Lymington Ferrari festival.
How did I get offered such a special car? Honestly I have no idea. But it may have something to do with owning a number of significant Ferraris, and then getting the final piece of the puzzle - a brand new 458 Italia.
This is the last ever naturally-aspirated Ferrari V8, and it’s the ultimate version of the ultimate track version of the magnificent 458. Many aficionados consider the Speciale Aperta to be a ‘special one.’
And it really is! Glorious screaming V8 engine, made all the more visceral by the lack of roof, stunning aggressive looks, and all wrapped up with reliable bullet-proof mechanicals.
If I can possibly help it, I will never sell this car. It is truly special.