- The 2024 Roma Spider is the latest addition to Ferrari’s lineup, resulting from the removal of the roof of the exquisite Roma coupe.
- It succeeds the Portofino M, and although its design is largely unchanged, Ferrari has made several alterations, such as redesigning the rear spoiler, incorporating a wind deflector, and enhancing the chassis and bodywork.
- Despite these modifications, the Roma Spider continues to generate 612 horsepower from its turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8.
After 1969’s 365GTS/4, Ferrari is introducing a fabric top in its front-engined cars for the first time. Ferrari unveiled the Roma Spider today, which involves removing the roof from its stylish V-8-powered coupe and replacing it with a retractable soft top.
Fortunately, Ferrari decided to maintain the majority of the exterior design of the Roma Spider’s coupe counterpart, preserving its elongated hood and sleek curves. The convertible top can be raised in a mere 13.5 seconds while traveling at speeds of up to 60kmph and is made with specialized multi-layered fabric weaves. Additionally, the active rear spoiler underwent modifications to suit open-air driving, with three settings that amplify downforce as velocity increases. Ferrari also strengthened the rear of the chassis, and the Roma Spider is purportedly only 185 pounds heavier than the coupe.
The interior of the cabin of the Roma convertible showcases an elegant design, reminiscent of the original Roma. It boasts an 8.4-inch vertical screen and a metal gear selector plate, which is surrounded by plush leather and faux suede. According to Ferrari, the steering wheel buttons have been updated for improved functionality, and the start button now emits a red glow. The automaker has also made efforts to reduce wind noise and turbulence when the top is down. This has been achieved through the addition of a 5-mm aerodynamic element on top of the windshield and a wind deflector that can be activated by rotating the backrest of the rear seats with a button. While this deflector cannot be used when passengers are seated in the back due to the limited space, it is unlikely to pose a significant problem given the compact dimensions of Roma’s rear seats.
Despite some updates to its gearbox to enhance fuel efficiency, the Roma Spider remains true to its roots with an unaltered heart – a turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8 engine producing an impressive 620 horsepower and 760 nm of torque. This power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Additionally, the latest version of the Slide Slip Control system is included in the Roma Spider to manage traction and stability control, enabling smooth and predictable drifts.
In spite of its impressive capabilities, the Roma Spider is better suited for leisurely drives than high-speed racing and boasts a host of luxurious features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as 18-way power-adjustable heated seats. Additionally, for those who wish to keep the top down in colder temperatures, there is the option to add a neck warmer.
