Ferrari Roma Spider: The Definitive History, Specs, and Legacy
Introduction: Ferrari’s Soft-Top Grand Touring Renaissance
In the grand narrative of Ferrari’s front-engine grand tourers, the Roma Spider, unveiled in 2023 and still gracing production lines as of April 07, 2025, emerges as a timeless masterpiece—a convertible GT that wields a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 to deliver 612 horsepower. With an estimated 1,000-plus units crafted by early 2025, this elegant drop-top reintroduces a fabric soft top to Ferrari’s front-engine lineage, a nod to the 1969 365 GTS4, succeeding the Ferrari Portofino M. Its name evokes the chic allure of Rome, blending la dolce vita with modern performance.
Debuted on March 16, 2023, at a lavish event in Marrakech, Morocco, the Roma Spider marries classic GT proportions with cutting-edge technology, its soft top a symbol of Ferrari’s return to open-air sophistication. As a Ferrari historian, I offer this definitive account of the Roma Spider—its historical roots, technical prowess, and unfolding legacy within Maranello’s storied heritage.
Historical Context: A Soft-Top Revival in Ferrari’s GT Legacy
The Ferrari Roma Spider arrived in 2023, a pivotal chapter in Ferrari’s grand touring evolution. The Portofino and its turbocharged successor, the Portofino M, had produced over 2,500 units, refining Ferrari’s entry-level GT formula. Yet, the shift from a retractable hardtop to a fabric soft top—last seen on a front-engine Ferrari with the 1969 365 GTS4—marked a bold return to classic convertible charm. The Roma Spider builds on the Roma coupe, launched in 2019, which had already captivated with its sleek design and V8 power.
Unveiled on March 16, 2023, chassis 311123—clad in Celeste Trevi—dazzled in Marrakech, its five-layer soft top folding in 13.5 seconds. By April 2025, production estimates suggest over 1,000 units, a growing tally reflecting its appeal. This is a car for the modern romantic—Riviera dreamers, urban sophisticates—crafted amid a convertible GT renaissance against the Aston Martin DB12 Volante and Bentley Continental GTC.
The early 2020s signal Ferrari’s blend of tradition and innovation. The 488 GTB era faded, but the Roma Spider upholds the V8 GT mantle, paving the way for future electrified marvels like the 296 GTS.
Technical Specifications: The V8’s Elegant Convertible Power
The Ferrari Roma Spider’s heart is its 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8—a refined powerhouse that balances GT elegance with supercar thrust. Below, I explore its engineering with a historian’s precision.
Engine: The 3.9-Liter Tipo F154 BH V8
Displacing 3,855 cc (bore 86.5 mm, stroke 82 mm), the Tipo F154 BH V8 boasts a 90-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder, and twin IHI turbochargers. With a 9.45:1 compression ratio and Bosch Motronic ME17.2 management, it delivers 612 horsepower at 5,750-7,500 rpm and 561 lb-ft of torque at 3,000-5,750 rpm. Weighing 340 lbs, this all-aluminum engine, shared with the Roma coupe, offers instant response and a melodic exhaust note.
Performance: Convertible GT Velocity
The Roma Spider hits 199 mph (320 km/h)—verified by Ferrari in 2023—matching the coupe, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds. Its power-to-weight ratio (393 hp/ton) reflects its GT focus, lapping Fiorano in 1:36.5—a testament to its balance over raw track aggression.
Chassis and Suspension: Aluminum Soft-Top Platform
The aluminum spaceframe weighs 1,556 kg (3,430 lbs dry)—84 kg heavier than the coupe—reinforced for the soft top with new sills and a rear bulkhead. Its 2,670 mm wheelbase pairs with double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, MagneRide dampers, and an E-Diff for poised handling, with a 48:52 weight distribution.
Transmission and Brakes: Refined Dynamics
An 8-speed dual-clutch transmission—shared with the SF90 Stradale—offers 30-ms shifts, with ratios (1st: 3.08, 8th: 0.65) tuned for cruising and thrust. Carbon-ceramic brakes (15.4-inch front, 14.2-inch rear) deliver 1.1g stopping power, enhanced by stability control.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.9L Twin-Turbo V8, 612 hp @ 5,750-7,500 rpm |
| Displacement | 3,855 cc (86.5 mm x 82 mm) |
| Top Speed | ~199 mph (320 km/h) |
| 0-60 mph | ~3.3 seconds |
| Weight | 1,556 kg (3,430 lbs dry) |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch, rear-wheel drive |
| Suspension (Front) | Double wishbone, MagneRide dampers |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-link, MagneRide dampers, E-Diff |
| Brakes | 15.4-inch front, 14.2-inch rear carbon-ceramic discs |
Design and Styling: Ferrari’s Soft-Top Elegance
The Roma Spider’s design, crafted by Ferrari’s Centro Stile under Flavio Manzoni, blends classic GT proportions with modern sophistication.
Exterior: Timeless Soft-Top Form
Chassis 311123 debuted with a sharknose grille, full-LED headlights, and a five-layer fabric soft top—finished in Celeste Trevi. Its 2,670 mm wheelbase and active rear spoiler (three positions: LD, MD, HD) enhance downforce by 30% over the Portofino M. The 20-inch alloy wheels complete its graceful silhouette.
Interior: Luxurious GT Cockpit
The cabin offers 18-way adjustable leather seats, a 16-inch digital dash, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. A Manettino dial (Wet, Comfort, Sport, Race) and wind deflector—integrated into the rear bench—elevate the Roma coupe’s layout, balancing luxury with open-air thrill.
Production and Variants: A Soft-Top GT Milestone
The Roma Spider’s production, ongoing since 2023, exceeds 1,000 units by April 2025 (estimated). Chassis 311123 launched the series, with no end date set. Options like MagneRide suspension and carbon-fiber accents enhance its appeal, but the standard soft-top remains the core offering.
Performance and Racing Legacy: A Road-Born Elegance
The Ferrari Roma Spider racing history is negligible, its purpose rooted in grand touring. Chassis 311130 excels on scenic drives, not circuits. Its 199 mph top speed and refined dynamics shine on open roads.
Ownership and Market Value: A Modern GT Classic
The Ferrari Roma Spider value reflects its allure. Early owners include celebrities like Jay-Z (chassis 311125). Prices range $270,000-$350,000—chassis 311123 listed at $320,000 in 2025. Maintenance—$14,000 annually—marks its accessible prestige.
Cultural Impact: Ferrari’s Soft-Top GT Revival
The Roma Spider revives Ferrari’s front-engine soft-top legacy, influencing future GTs like the Roma lineage. In 2020s lore, it’s the elegant drop-top—a modern echo of la dolce vita.
Comparisons: Ferrari Roma Spider vs Rivals
The Ferrari Roma Spider vs Aston Martin DB12 Volante pits 612 hp V8 against 671 hp V8—Aston leads in power, Ferrari in style. The Bentley Continental GTC (650 hp) offers luxury but trails in agility.
| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari Roma Spider | 3.9L Twin-Turbo V8 | 612 hp | 1,556 kg | ~199 mph |
| Aston Martin DB12 Volante | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 671 hp | 1,780 kg | ~202 mph |
| Bentley Continental GTC | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 650 hp | 2,165 kg | ~208 mph |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ferrari Roma Spider?
A 2023-present 3.9L twin-turbo V8 convertible grand tourer.
How many have been made?
Over 1,000 units by April 2025 (estimated).
What engine powers it?
3,855 cc twin-turbo V8, 612 hp.
Does it race?
No—built for touring.
What’s its value?
$270,000-$350,000.
