2018 Ferrari 488 Spider Review

Though it might not look it, the Ferrari 488 Spider is a major step forward for the Italian firm. Upon its introduction for the 2016 model year, the 488 ushered in the first use of a turbocharged V8 engine in a Ferrari since the legendary F40. It showed the company's direction, whether enthusiasts liked it or not, into the world of turbocharged engines. Its predecessor, the 458, was considered by many to be the benchmark for the class, but the 488 acquitted itself immediately.

Ferrari finds itself in the middle of a renaissance, somehow managing to improve upon already excellent models. But there's still a fair bit of variety, not to mention stiff competition, these days. The Porsche 911 Turbo, for example, offers similar levels of performance with more of an eye on grand-touring comfort. Of course, if you want the full Italian experience, Lamborghini's Huracan is tough to beat thanks to its wailing V10 engine and eye-catching style.