Ferrari California Handling Speciale package

Ferrari California Handling Speciale package

The Ferrari California is the entry point to the Prancing Horse's stable, but that doesn't make it a slouch. For added performance and handling, Ferrari is planning a new Handling Speciale package to debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, to coincide with the introduction of the new 2013 model.

The 2013 California gets a power upgrade to 490 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque from the front-mounted 4.3-liter V-8, a rise of 30 horsepower and 26 pound-feet. The power comes from revised exhaust manifolds and ECU tuning.

The new model also sheds about 66 pounds from the California's 3,825-pound curb weight, and about 0.2 tenths of a second from its 0-60-mph dash. Add on the Handling Speciale package, and you'll have the sharpest California yet.

Aiming for a target of "dynamic, yet not overly extreme" performance, the Handling Speciale package reduces body roll with a faster magneto-rheological damper control system and stiffer springs. The steering ratio is quickened by 10 percent for smaller wheel inputs and sharper turn-in.

The full package will also include a range of colors and three-layer paint from the Ferrari Styling Centre, with two-tone finishes and modern takes on classic color schemes. We'll be live in Geneva for the show, so stick around for live photos and video from the show floor.

Ferrari California Handling Speciale package

Ferrari California Handling Speciale package