Luxury Cars

Rediscovering ‘La Dolce Vita’ in the Ferrari Roma and Roma Spider

By Bryle B. Suralta

If there was ever a car that embodies the concept of “La Dolce Vita,” it’s the Ferrari Roma and its soft-top twin the Roma Spider. The dynamic duo are cars that serve as contemporary reimaginings of modern Italian styling. Agility, power and sublime refinement, these supercars epitomise the carefree essence of ’50s and ’60s Rome.

Adorned with balanced volumes and harmonious proportions, the Roma borrows cues from the mid-front-engined grand touring tradition of the 250 GT Berlinetta lusso and 250 GT 2+2. The refreshed grille is defined by a monolithic surface that also cools the radiator. Its sleek lines noticeably sweep back from the front bonnet, elevating the spare silhouette of flanks and the compact cabin. All superfluous detailing has been subtracted seamlessly.

The new mid-front-engined 2+ coupé also possesses the award-winning turbo-charged 3.9-litre V8, making it the most powerful in its segment.

Powered by a lighter eight-speed dual clutch gearbox (a decent six kg difference between its seven-speed predecessor) that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale, the Roma can reach 612 hp at 7,500 rpm and can go from 0 to 60 in just 3.1 seconds. Ferrari’s signature vehicle dynamics systems, including the Side Slip Control and Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer, provide greater handling.

In the cabin, the 16-inch digital instrument cluster marks the largest ever in this model. This 8.4-inch portrait central screen is found atop the center console that divides the two cockpits. Haptic touchpads allow for better control mid-drive.

A notable shift, too, is the new Ferrari key with “Comfort Access,” which allows drivers to open the car by touching a button next to the new flush handle. Adaptive cruise control and matrix LED headlights should allow for smooth day-to-day driving pleasure. The Ferrari advanced driver assistance systems is optional, but certainly adds another layer of comfortability to the ride.

Likewise, the Ferrari Roma Spider mirrors that same timeless elegance and modern chic. It adopts all the proportions, enhancements and specifications of the Roma.

The biggest difference here is, of course, that sumptuous soft top, which happens to be the first front-engine soft top Ferrari has had in 54 years – with the last being the iconic 1969 365 GTS4. To shake off the torsional stiffness that troubles open-air vehicles, the Roma Spider was even given proper reinforcements, such as the retractable wind deflector and pop-up rollbars behind in the back. Indeed, it’s a vehicle for the sweet life.

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