Photos courtesy Ferrari
INDULGE | MOTORS
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between the steering wheel and the thunderous three exhaust pipes. Transmission choices include an automatic mode, but most will prefer the instant and controlled paddle shifting. Power, when needed, is simply breathtaking in any gear. Another button on the steering wheel can adjust the shocks to tighten or loosen the ride. Any slight tug of the steering wheel garners an immediate response—handling is as much as any good racecar driver could want. So whether speed, handling or aesthetics are of interest, the 458 Spider has pinnacle appeal. Enzo would be proud of his namesake in this latest edition of this Spider. u
SpottED IN HawaI‘I: One of Photo courtesy Servco Lexus
Moving to the interior does not force you to break from the racecar frame of mind. Namely, the performance controls on the steering wheel drive home the idea that one should not take your hands off the wheel to make adjustments to the suspension and general performance enhancers. No need to think that the interior is some stark replica of a vintage racecar: Elegantly lined leather seats are surrounded by similar attention to detail finishings. Behind the seats you’ll find storage for a golf bag or soft luggage to help supplement the front trunk. On the front of the steering wheel is a small switch that can be moved from “Wet” to “Sport” or “Race.” It does not take a rocket scientist to figure out the meaning of the switches, but does take one to program the various computers to control the suspension, the engine power and shifting speeds. Other positions on the switch can deactivate traction and stability controls, leaving the driver in complete control. A video screen behind the steering wheels can warn the driver if he or she may be overdoing it. When first starting it will show “Warm-up” meaning all systems are not ready for full power. “Go” means let it rip and “Over” says slow down because systems are overworked. Turn the ignition switch and press the start button on the steering wheel and the V-8 roars to life, felt everywhere
only 50 über-exclusive Lexus LFAs made in 2012. The limited edition, Nürburgring Package model goes from zero to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.
8/30/12 11:44 AM