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Litchfield upgrades Ferrari 458 Italia with power and precision

British tuner Litchfield has developed a performance package for the Ferrari 458 Italia, adding 44 bhp, a titanium exhaust and chassis tweaks for £11,995 before VAT.

By Steve James Updated
2011 Ferrari 458 Italia, front view
2011 Ferrari 458 Italia, front view Vauxford / CC BY-SA 4.0

Litchfield, a performance specialist based in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, has launched a comprehensive tuning package for the Ferrari 458 Italia. This package is designed for owners seeking sharper performance and a more focused driving experience. Developed over several months and tested extensively, the upgrade delivers both increased power and improved chassis dynamics for the Italian supercar.

Litchfield's Ferrari 458 Italia Upgrade Package

Powertrain Enhancements

The core of Litchfield's package is a reworked ECU calibration paired with an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system. The new exhaust reduces weight by 14.2 kg compared to the standard factory setup. With these modifications, the 4.5-litre V8 engine gains an additional 44 bhp and 17 lb-ft of torque. Litchfield's in-house dynamometer recorded a real-world output of 551 bhp after the upgrade, helping owners achieve performance figures closer to the 458's original claims, even outside of idealised test conditions.

Chassis and Brake Improvements

Beyond engine performance, Litchfield recommends upgrading the brake system with Goodridge motorsport stainless steel braided hoses. These hoses are intended to provide a more positive and precise brake pedal feel, which can be especially valuable during spirited driving. The package also includes a precision chassis alignment. Litchfield's 'fast road' geometry setting is designed to optimise each tyre's contact with the road, improving both response and stability for enthusiastic road use.

What the Package Includes

  • ECU remap for increased power and torque
  • Akrapovic titanium exhaust system (14.2 kg lighter than stock)
  • Goodridge stainless steel brake hoses (recommended for improved pedal feel)
  • Precision chassis alignment with Litchfield's 'fast road' geometry

The complete package is offered at £11,995 before VAT. Litchfield's tuning programme is aimed at those who wish to extract more from their 458 Italia without moving to its turbocharged successor, the 488 GTB. Despite the arrival of newer models, the 458 Italia remains highly regarded among naturally aspirated supercars, and this upgrade seeks to keep it competitive with more recent rivals.

Ferrari 458 Italia: Continued Relevance

Although the Ferrari 458 Italia has been succeeded by the 488 GTB, it continues to be relevant in the supercar world due to its naturally aspirated V8 and distinctive driving experience. Litchfield's package is designed to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate the 458's character but desire modern performance enhancements. Upgrades like the Akrapovic exhaust and ECU remap not only improve acceleration but also enhance the car's sound and responsiveness, helping owners enjoy their cars on both road and track.

Litchfield's offering provides an option for 458 Italia owners to keep their cars feeling fresh and competitive, supporting the model's standing as a benchmark in the supercar segment. The combination of power, reduced weight, improved braking, and optimised handling ensures the 458 Italia remains an engaging and relevant choice for performance car enthusiasts.

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