Ferrari 458 Spider and California collide on wet Chinese highway
Two high-value Ferraris were damaged and both drivers injured after a crash involving a 458 Spider and a California on a rain-soaked road in China in October 2012.
A Ferrari 458 Spider and a Ferrari California were both seriously damaged in a crash on a wet highway in China in October 2012, after one of the drivers lost control and collided with the other car. Both vehicles belonged to private owners and were reportedly travelling together when the incident occurred.
The crash took place during wet weather, which appears to have played a role in the loss of control. According to reports at the time, the driver of one Ferrari spun out and struck the other, resulting in substantial damage to both cars. The 458 Spider lost its engine in the impact, while the California suffered heavy damage to its front end.
Extent of the damage
Images from the scene showed the 458 Spider with its engine separated from the chassis, indicating a high-energy impact. The California’s front fascia was heavily damaged, with body panels and structural components visibly deformed. Emergency services responded and both drivers were taken to hospital with minor injuries. No other vehicles were reported to be involved.
Ferrari models involved
The Ferrari 458 Spider, launched in 2011, features a 4.5-litre V8 producing 570hp and 398lb ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It is capable of 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds. The California, introduced in 2008, uses a 4.3-litre direct-injected V8 with 450hp, also mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both models are high-value, high-performance convertibles aimed at affluent buyers.
- Ferrari 458 Spider: 4.5-litre V8, 570hp, 0-62mph in 3.4s
- Ferrari California: 4.3-litre V8, 450hp, 0-62mph in 3.9s
The cost of repairs for both cars would have been substantial, given the extent of the damage and the price of Ferrari components. At the time, the 458 Spider had just reached the Chinese market, making this a high-profile incident among local enthusiasts. Wet road conditions and the power on offer from both cars likely contributed to the crash.
Supercar crashes in China
This crash did not result in fatalities, but highlighted the risks of driving high-powered sports cars in challenging conditions. Both vehicles were left undriveable and required recovery from the scene.
