Used 2012 Ferrari 458 Spyder Convertible Review & Ratings

With a 4.5 liter V-8 engine, the 2012 Ferrari 458 Spyder Convertible offers magnificent power - 562 hp to be exact, clocked going zero - 60 in only 3.4 seconds. Coupled with a dual clutch seven-speed automated manual transmission, this engine begs to be opened up, despite Ferrari's promotion as a softer, gentler sports car. The company is adamant that the Spyder will appeal to those who prefer a relaxing back road ramble to burning rubber. Changes in stability control, modified tuning for the exhaust, and gentler suspension tuning make for a softer package than its 458 Italia cousin. According to Ferrari, the Spyder is attractive to drivers who want a sports car performance package without the stereotypical aggressive driving style. However, it seems unlikely that a sports car with a top speed of 198 miles per hour will ever truly meander.

Instead of a traditional ragtop, the roof is an aluminum hard top that rotates 180 degrees to slip beneath a tonneau cover in a mere 14 seconds flat. The only drawback to this roof design is an additional 110 pounds of weight when compared to the standard version. This convertible is a culmination of experimentation, after Ferrari tested single piece retracting fabric roofs, stackable hard roof panels, and single piece glass roofs. It embodies all of the best qualities of each option, without even reducing headroom. Carefully engineered to take up as little space as possible even when retracted, the convertible top leaves plenty of space for a liberal bench behind the two front seats for storage of luggage, boxes, and bags.

Steering is quick, tight, and accurate, and adept handling means complete control - a definite plus for those that push this vehicle to its limits. Cornering doesn't faze the Ferrari 458 Spyder Convertible, as it changes direction with no sign of a shimmy, and the seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission is attentive and efficient, making manual transmission lovers question their devotion. The Ferrari 458 Spyder Convertible offers state-of-the-art suspension, guaranteeing a smooth ride regardless of bumps in the road.

Standard safety and security features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, as well as a remote anti-theft alarm system and an engine immobilizer. Add in stability and traction control, dual front side-mounted airbags, and a passenger airbag deactivation switch. Other safety features are standard daytime running lights, an LED headlamp, front integrated headrests, and tire pressure monitoring. The 2012 Ferrari 458 Spyder Convertible has not been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.