2012 FERRARI CALIFORNIA 30 - HANDLING SPECIALE

This Ferrari California 30 is an appealingly understated, original example of the brand’s hardtop convertible grand tourer, offered for sale with just one private owner from new and full main dealer history. Under its shapely bonnet is a 4.3-litre, naturally-aspirated V8 producing 483bhp, capable of powering the car to 60mph from rest in 3.7 seconds. This power is channelled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The odometer reads 19,450 miles.

With only one owner from new, this California has led a cherished and pampered life to date. The car was first registered on 26 April 2012, and is an original, UK-market model. It is now offered for sale by the trade.

The California is notable for having both the body and chassis entirely made of aluminium, including the metal roof. Carbon-ceramic brake discs were fitted as standard. This particular car benefits from being a facelift model, with increased power and a 30kg reduction in weight. Furthermore, it was specified from the factory with the 'Handling Speciale' package, comprising a stiffer chassis and more responsive steering.

Presented in a subtle shade of Grigio Titanio metallic, the Ferrari presents well and retains a distinct flake to the finish in direct sunlight. The paint finish appears to be original to the car, displaying only a light dusting of stone chips to the front end, and a few minor superficial scratches elsewhere.

The contrasting black convertible roof, which takes only 14 seconds to operate, is in fully-working order with no damage visible. The glass, headlight and taillight lenses and indicators are also free of faults, with the iconic Scuderia Ferrari wing shields also intact. Riding on optional diamond-cut 20-inch alloy wheels, the California exudes elegant style. The wheels display minor ‘milking’ to their finish, which can be rectified with wheel refurbishment.

The California’s cabin is a welcoming place to be, with several comfort-oriented touches. Finished in Nero with the optional ‘Daytona’ stripes, the electrically-adjustable heated seats are in excellent condition, with no rips or tears to the material. Only the driver’s seat shows light signs of usage.

Carbon-fibre inserts are used on the dashboard and transmission tunnel, with no damage to their finish, while the dashboard switchgear is in similarly good condition. The vendor states that there are a handful of minor scratches in the infotainment screen, which are only visible when the unit is switched off.

Having been in continuous single ownership throughout its life to date, this California has enjoyed regular servicing from HR Owen of London. The most recent service was carried out at 19,450 miles by the same dealer, which constituted an engine oil and filter change. A full service history summary follows this advert.

The most recent MOT test was on 7 October 2020 at 19,488 miles. This, like all the MOT tests the California has faced to date, resulted in a first-time pass.

Shod in matching Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres all round, these have approximately between 4-6mm of tread remaining. Three of the tyres have some small cracks due, and the fourth was replaced during the recent service and MOT as it was worn.

As an entirely original California, this example will be supplied with its original owner’s manual, service booklet, document wallet and leather Ferrari folder. In addition, the original wind deflector, Ferrari-branded battery charger and set of four spare wheel centre caps will be supplied alongside a fitted car cover.

Offering a heady cocktail of scintillating V8 performance and boulevardier good looks, the Ferrari California is a great introduction to the world of Ferrari ownership. This single-owner, highly original example would be a compelling addition to any collection, or the ideal grand tourer with which to explore sunnier climes.

Summary of service history:

• 25.4.2013 – 5,257 miles – HR Owen
• 26.8.2014 – 8,527 miles – HR Owen
• 1.8.2015 – 11,039 miles – HR Owen
• 29.7.2016 – 12,365 miles – HR Owen
• 13.9.2017 – 14,504 miles – HR Owen
• 24.8.2018 – 15,878 miles – HR Owen
• 10.09.2019 – 18,430 miles – HR Owen
• 30.9.2020 – 19,450 miles – HR Owen

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.