Mansory Siracusa

Most attempts to modify a supercar are going to be controversial, as are the efforts of German tuner Mansory. Combine the two then, and it’s very likely that the outcome is going to divide opinion.



For the Siracusa - based on the Ferrari 458 Italia - Mansory has adopted its usual procedure: replace as much bodywork as possible with carbon fibre, fiddle with the aerodynamics, boost power, re-trim the interior and then apply a ‘unique’ colour scheme.

Some visual elements don’t work particularly well, for example the revised headlights and the various carbon fibre addenda stuck onto the side skirts and front apron. But the claimed results are more down-force, better cooling and a car that’s 70 kg (154 lbs) lighter.



Combined with a modest 2% increase in power to 581 bhp (434 kW / 590 PS) - thanks to a tweaked engine management system, replacement air filter and a sports exhaust - the Siracusa will accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.2 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).



Impressive performance, although it should be remembered that the standard 458 Italia does the same sprint in 3.4 seconds and maxes out at 202 mph (325 km/h). So it begs the question: what’s the point for such insignificant gains?



Of course, it might be that the Mansory has a notably improved mid-range, while the lowered suspension and more effective spoilers unite to considerably enhance handling. The only way to tell would be to pitch the Siracusa against a stock 458 Italia on a track.



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MP4-12C versus 458 Italia