The California Spider has been revered since it was introduced in 1958. Without a doubt, the 250 GT “Cal Spider” is one of the most beautiful cars ever to pass through Ferrari’s fabled gates. With its stunning bodywork designed by Pininfarina and masterfully executed by Scaglietti, the car was a collaboration of the very best. In the pantheon of desirable open Ferraris, it continues to stand amongst the best.

Revealed at the Paris Motor Show in 2008, the modern California introduced a number of firsts for Ferrari. As a completely new car in the Ferrari lineup, it was the first Ferrari with a front engined V-8, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a metal convertible roof, a multi-link rear suspension, and a direct injection system. These introductions showed that the California was a grand tourer in the greatest sense, but it certainly was no slouch either. Top speed is a blistering 193 mph, and the California can go from 0–60 mph in 3.9 seconds, just as fast as its mid-engined sibling, the F430.

As with any grand touring Ferrari, the interior of the California is a lovely place to be. The California was designed as a 2+2, but the small rear seats could be switched for a parcel shelf as an option. With the roof up, the trunk is large and can accommodate luggage for two with ease. Standard equipment included a satellite navigation and infotainment system, encouraging owners to go out and explore in their newest Ferrari.

The California lured many enthusiasts to the Ferrari brand for the first time. It provided a more sporting alternative to many luxury grand tourers, like the AMG-powered Mercedes SL models, the Bentley Continental GTC, and the Aston Martin DB9 Volante. Sixty percent of all California buyers were new to Ferrari, and their order books were full, with the turn-around from order to delivery being nearly two years.

Purchased new by William H. Tilley, there is no doubt that he optioned this 2010 California to match his 360 Spider in Giallo Modena. This California is tastefully equipped with Scuderia shields, red brake calipers, 20-inch sport wheels, and Daytona-style seats with matching leather inserts, and the Nero leather interior is broken up by contrasting yellow stitching throughout. The original service book, manual, factory battery tender, and service records from Ferrari of Beverly Hills are included as well.

When the car was driven by an RM specialist, he espoused on how great it was to drive. Though designed to emulate the great open 250 GT Spider, the California also looks fantastic with the top up. But be open or closed, the car handles like no other. As everything remains practically brand new, this California is absolutely “dialed in.” The driving experience is incredible, as it is both sporty and luxurious. The gear shifts are quick, precise, and operate without hesitation, and at wide-open throttle, the exhaust sings out a fantastic note unlike any other. The muscular design gives it a great presence, and it dominates the road as well as its contemporaries.

Once journalists began to drive the California, it was clear that Ferrari’s newest offering was indeed deserving of the California name. In October of 2008, Motor Trend stated that the car “is a sporting gran turismo totally fit for the purpose; a car of rare ability: a truly great Ferrari.” With just under 4,500 miles, this California is nearly new and ready for anything. Equally comfortable blasting down the freeway, tearing up country roads, or going on a late-night grocery run, the versatile California can do it all…very quickly.