By
Jamie Kitman
Welcome,
first, the most exceptional of the many exceptional
features of the new Ferrari F430 Spider, the
just-launched revision of the Ferrari 360
Modena, which debuted in 1999. This follow-up
is a striking exception to the rule, not only
equaling but fairly blasting past the incredibly
super model it updates.
Outward
refinements seem subtle on this most unsubtle
machine. until you learn that the only carryover
sheetmetal is the doors. Plus, there are improvements
to the wind-deflection system, a revised power
convertible top, and new polished stainless-steel
tailpipes. There's an updated instrument binnacle,
a slimmer central tunnel, and a driver's-mirror
shell now embossed to read "F430,"
just in case anyone was in doubt that yours
was the latest and greatest example of a car
that now costs about $200,000.
