Ferrari Roma Spider Full Review: The Ultimate Drop-Top GT?

Watch Vicki Butler-Henderson give her verdict on the Ferrari Roma Spider:

Join Vicki Butler-Henderson as she delves into the Ferrari Roma Spider, a convertible masterpiece that combines timeless Italian elegance with thrilling performance. This drop-top version of Ferrari’s grand tourer takes open-air driving to a new level, blending heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation. Starting at £211,000, the Roma Spider offers a perfect mix of style, luxury, and excitement, making it a standout in the world of high-performance convertibles.

Specifications

Price: From £211,000
Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
Power Output: 620 bhp, 760 Nm of torque
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
0-62 mph: 3.4 seconds
Top Speed: 199 mph

Exterior & Design

The Roma Spider is a visual delight. Its shark-like nose, flowing lines, and sculpted rear make it one of the most striking Ferraris to date. Every curve and crease has been designed to exude sophistication while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The car’s fabric roof adds a touch of old-school elegance, harking back to Ferrari’s 1969 365 GTS4.

The roof itself is a masterpiece of engineering. Constructed with five layers, it ensures excellent insulation and acoustic comfort. It can be raised or lowered in just 13.5 seconds, even while travelling at speeds of up to 37 mph. Ferrari has also introduced an innovative wind deflector, deployable at the press of a button, which minimises buffeting. However, this feature comes with a trade-off: it makes the rear seats unusable, limiting passenger capacity.

While the Roma Spider prioritises style and performance, it doesn’t completely neglect practicality. The boot offers 255 litres of space—enough for a weekend getaway. Additionally, the rear seats feature Isofix points, making them suitable for children. However, they’re best considered as an extension of the storage space rather than functional seating for adults.

Interior & Technology

Step inside, and the Roma Spider envelops you in a world of luxury. High-quality leather and suede adorn the cabin, and Ferrari offers virtually endless personalisation options. The adjustable heated seats come standard, ensuring comfort on chilly drives, while optional extras like a wind scarf—priced at £2,000—add a touch of indulgence.

The interior is packed with technology. The haptic controls on the steering wheel may take some getting used to, but they offer access to essential functions such as navigation, media, and car settings. An optional passenger display, priced at £4,000, allows the co-pilot to interact with navigation and performance data—a feature sure to keep passengers engaged.

While most of the cabin exudes refinement, some materials around the infotainment screen feel less premium than expected. That said, the overall craftsmanship is exceptional, living up to Ferrari’s reputation for luxury.

Wheels and Tyres

The Roma Spider sits on sleek 20-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tyres. Known for their exceptional grip and stability, these tyres ensure the car remains planted during spirited driving. Rated highly by DriverReviews users, they are as capable on winding country roads as they are on motorways, adding confidence to the Roma Spider’s dynamic handling.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Roma Spider lies its soul-stirring 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Producing 620 horsepower and 760 Nm of torque, it delivers blistering acceleration. The Roma Spider rockets from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 199 mph.

What sets this car apart is its effortless power delivery. The 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox ensures seamless shifts, while the throttle response is sharp and immediate. Despite being turbocharged, the engine feels as linear and responsive as a naturally aspirated unit. The roar of the exhaust, amplified with the roof down, adds an intoxicating soundtrack to every drive.

Ferrari has reinforced the Roma Spider’s chassis to compensate for the absence of a fixed roof, adding 84 kg of weight. This extra heft is barely noticeable, thanks to the advanced suspension system and the optional £3,500 Magneride dampers. For those venturing onto rougher roads, Ferrari’s aptly named “Bumpy Road” button softens the suspension, offering impressive ride comfort.

Driving Modes

Ferrari equips the Roma Spider with its signature Manettino dial, offering multiple driving modes: Wet, Comfort, Sport, Race, and ESC Off. Each mode adjusts the car’s character, from relaxed cruising to track-ready thrills. The steering is sharp and precise, with just the right amount of feedback, making the Roma Spider feel agile and responsive.

Safety features include a suite of electronic aids designed to provide maximum performance without sacrificing control. Whether you’re cruising through the countryside or tackling challenging corners, the Roma Spider keeps you engaged and secure.

Vicki’s Verdict

“If you want your convertible to be a showstopper, take the Roma Spider.”

The Ferrari Roma Spider is a celebration of style, performance, and innovation. Vicki highlights its seamless blend of elegance and power, with features like the five-layer fabric roof and advanced suspension system elevating the driving experience. The roaring V8 and precise gearbox make every journey an event, while the car’s luxurious interior ensures you’re surrounded by comfort.

While it might not offer the practicality of some competitors, such as the Bentley Continental GTC or Porsche 911 Turbo, the Roma Spider excels as a car that commands attention and delivers pure driving joy. It’s a convertible designed for those who value Ferrari’s iconic blend of craftsmanship and exhilaration.

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