Ferrari 430 Scuderia Spider 16M unveiled

The Scuderia Spider 16M was launched last weekend in commemoration of Ferrari’s 16th victory in the 2008 Formula 1 Constructor’s World Championship, the Ferrari World Finals in Mugello. It has become the fastest ever open-top Ferrari around the Fiorano circuit and only 499 examples will be built, and the model is, according to Ferrari, “aimed at the most passionate clients, drivers who demand both exclusivity and superb driving pleasure.”

The Scuderia Spider 16M is available in two new colors: the standard version is black with grey trim while a tricolor livery is also available as part of the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalization Program. The new car also has a special plaque on it’s rear grill commemorating Ferrari’s 16th Constructor’s World title. The interior is also underscored by the silver “limited series” plaque just above the air vents at the center of the dashboard. Other exclusive features include a roll bar with a carbon-fiber outer shell and an audio system that can be combined with the removable customized Ferrari iPod Touch 16GB media player.

This model has a dry weight of 1,340kg (80kg lighter than the F430 Spider). The curb weight is a claimed 1,440kg. This combined with the 502bhp provided by its V8 engine which results in a blistering 0-62mph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 196mph. Carbon emissions are 360g/km on the Combined cycle. The transmission is Ferrari’s six-speed dual-clutch F1 Superfast gearbox and the car is also equipped with the company’s CST Stability and Traction Control System which can be operated via the usual steering-wheel mounted “manettino” (or switch, as it’s also known) with five settings.

Expect to pay more than the $277,000 base price of the hard-top-that is if you can get your hands on one in the first place.