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The limited-run Ferrari J50 is the coolest 488 Spider you can't buy

Ferrari is really good at celebrating things. In recognition of 50 years of selling cars in Japan, the company is building a few one-off versions of the 488 Spider, called the J50. That's our kind of anniversary present. Just 10 of these cars will be built, and each will be customized to the taste of its owner. The J50 gets a 681-horsepower version of the 488's 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 and of course wraps it all in different bodywork. The interior gets some custom attention as well, with different trim but most of the normal parts from the 488 Spider. It's not shown here, but there's a two-piece carbon-fiber targa roof that stows behind the seats and is supported by the matte carbon roll hoops. Design highlights include a polycarbonate bubble over the engine, a channel that wraps the front end and the sides, a chopped windshield and side glass, and a fantastic looking rear diffuser. The front end reminds us of some old GM aero concepts, but in the best way possible. If you want one, you're probably already too late. Ferrari likely offered these to its best Japanese customers before the car was even unveiled. You have 50 years to save up for the next one; better luck next time. Related Video: Featured Gallery Ferrari J50 Ferrari Convertible Luxury Performance Supercars ferrari 488 spider

Ferrari F12 races Air Malta A320 jet

Air Malta recently worked up a little stunt that pitted an Airbus A320 against a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta in a drag race to raise funds for charity. It's easy to forget just how quick something the size of a jetliner can be, but watching the video below shows us just where the big passenger aircraft stands when it comes to sprinting down a runway. We won't spoil the clip for you, you'll just have to check out the showdown below.
Air Malta says it raised over 178,820 euro with the stunt, which is around $230,000. That's despite the fact that intermittent rain showers kept crowds away. Formula One racer Lewis Hamilton even stopped by to say "Hi" to the crowds. He wasn't piloting the F12, however. Check out the video below for yourself.

Ferrari Portofino revealed: Goodbye California, hello beautiful

The Ferrari California, in both turbo and non-turbo configurations, has been soldiering on for nearly a decade. With a base price of just over $200,000, it's the brand's entry-level model. Today, the automaker announced the car's replacement, the Ferrari Portofino. This will be the brand's entry-level GT car, slotting in below the top-dog 812 Superfast. It's both lighter and more powerful than the California T while still retaining the convertible hardtop bodystyle. The now-familiar 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 rests under the Portofino's long hood. The engine sends 591 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. That's 39 more horsepower and 3 more pound-feet than the California T. A new engine map along with new pistons, connecting rods, intake and exhaust account for the boost. Ferrari's Variable Boost Management system limits torque in certain gears, only sending out what the wheels can handle. Ferrari says the Portofino will hit 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds, pressing along to a top speed of 199 mph. The Portofino makes use of the third generation of Ferrari's electronic rear differential. The car also comes with the F1-Trac traction control system. Combined with the Variable Boost Management, the Portofino should find adequate grip in most situations. A new generation of magnetorheological dampers helps improve ride and handling. Notably, the Portofino moves to electronically assisted power steering, following the same move in the 812 Superfast earlier this year. The car is longer, lower and wider than the outgoing model. The new chassis makes use of modern design and engineering techniques, shaving an unspecified amount of weight from the car. At 3,813 pounds, the California T is a bit of a pig. Any weight savings will be a good thing. Because the V8 sits behind the front axle, the Portofino's weight distribution is 46/54 percent front/rear. As expected, Ferrari has emphasized aerodynamic efficiency when crafting the Portofino's design. Overall, it looks like a slightly smaller 812 Superfast. If you like that car, you'll like the looks of the Portofino. The car is covered with small lips and intakes to help channel air in the most efficient and useful way possible. Look just to the side of the headlights or the deep cut that leads from the front wheels all the way along the door. The rear end does a much better job of hiding the convertible hardtop.