Ferrari 458 Speciale rear hatch, rear spoiler
Ferrari 458 Speciale features a complete aerodynamic and structural overhaul of the rear section compared to the standard Italia. If you are sourcing parts for a conversion or repair, the “Speciale” specific components are significantly different in both material and function.
1. Rear Hatch (Engine Cover)
The Speciale hatch is designed for extreme weight savings and improved thermal management.
-
Lexan® Screen: Unlike the 458 Italia, which uses heavy tempered glass, the Speciale features a lightweight Lexan® (polycarbonate) rear window. It is significantly thinner and includes specific venting slats to help heat escape the engine bay.
-
Carbon Fiber Framing: The structural frame of the hatch is often finished in exposed or painted carbon fiber to reduce the car’s center of gravity.
-
Weight Reduction: Switching from the Italia glass hatch to the Speciale Lexan version saves approximately 4–5 kg.
2. Rear Spoiler (Kamm Tail)
The Speciale does not use a “bolt-on” wing; instead, it utilizes a redesigned integrated ducktail and active aero.
-
Height & Shape: The rear “Kamm Tail” is taller and more exaggerated than the Italia’s, increasing passive downforce by approximately 7 points.
-
Active Aerodynamic Flaps: Located just above the rear diffuser, the Speciale features electronically controlled flaps. At high speeds (above 220 km/h), these flaps lower by up to 17°. This “stalls” the diffuser, reducing drag for higher top-speed runs while maintaining stability.
-
Full-Width Grille: The rear fascia between the taillights is a mesh grille on the Speciale to further assist in cooling the high-output V8.
3. Integration & Compatibility
| Component | Compatibility with 458 Italia | Note |
| Hatch/Glass | Physical Fit | Can be retrofitted to an Italia, but requires the Speciale-specific hinges and seals. |
| Rear Spoiler | Partial (Requires Bumper) | The spoiler is part of the rear bumper/fender line. You cannot easily swap just the “lip” without the Speciale rear bumper. |
| Active Flaps | Non-Compatible | Requires the Speciale ECU and specific wiring loom to function; otherwise, they remain static. |
Technical Part Sourcing Tips
-
Material: Authentic Speciale parts are Dry Carbon Fiber (autoclave molded). Many aftermarket “Speciale-style” parts are wet-lay carbon or fiberglass, which are heavier and prone to yellowing from engine heat.
-
Exhaust Clearance: If you are installing the Speciale rear bodywork, remember that the exhaust exits are moved to a higher, more central position compared to the Italia. You will need a Speciale-specific exhaust system or a custom X-pipe to clear the new bumper and spoiler assembly.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.