Unveiled in 2019 as Ferrari's first-ever plug-in hybrid, the SF90 Stradale combines a twin-turbo V-8 engine and three electric motors in an amazing 986-horsepower package. Come 2020, and Ferrari launched the SF90 version we were expecting: the SF90 Spider. Essentially a convertible version of the SF90 Stradale, the Spider offers the joy and performance of its coupe sibling with the benefits of infinite headroom.

The Ferrari SF90 Spider is a Stradale with a state-of-the-art retractable hard-top

It features the same aggressive, V-shaped nose flanked by C-shaped headlamps and lower grilles and the same sculpted profile. The rear fascia is also identical, boasting quad and almost rectangular taillights, a center-mounted exhaust, and a twin diffuser borrowed from motorsport. But what sets the Spider model apart?

Well, apart from the top, and we'll get to that shortly, you have to really close to spot the difference. Like most convertible or Targa models, the roofline sits a bit lower; in this case, 0.8 inches lower than the SF90 Stradale. The windshield is also more raked toward the back, while the A-pillars are a bit slimmer. The upper section of the engine hood is also different, mainly due to the retractable top system. The modification makes the flying buttresses more visible than on the coupe, which is really cool.

First introduced on the 458 Spider in 2011, it has been improved and now adapted to fit this supercar. Compact and built from aluminum, the RHT is around 88 pounds lighter than the conventional retractable hard-top, so it helps keep the car's weight low and similar to the coupe. It takes only 14 seconds to open and close, and it takes up only 3.5 cubic feet of space rather than up to seven cubic feet like a traditional system. The adjustable electric rear window between the flying buttresses provides protection from wind when the top is folded under the body.

The Ferrari SF90 Spider's interior features new aero elements

Not surprisingly, the SF90 Spider is identical to the SF90 Stradale inside the cabin. However, Ferrari had to make some adjustments in order for the cockpit to remain somewhat comfortable when the roof is folded away. There is a central trim section between the driver and passenger seats that channels the air away from the head and shoulders, sending it into a double layer of trim on the tunnel's upper part. The good news is that both of these elements are drag neutral, so they do not impact the car's performance.

The Ferrari SF90 Spider is just as powerful as the SF90 Stradale

Sharing between the two SF90 models continues under the hood, where the Spider hides a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8 engine. The SF90 Spider is also fitted with three electric motors, one mounted on the transmission, and one on each of the front wheels. These motors provide an additional 217 horsepower, raising the powertrain's total output to a whopping 986 horsepower. Just like its Stradale sibling, the SF90 Spider is the most powerful Ferrari ever built as of late 2020.

Ferrari has yet to reveal performance figures, but the SF90 Spider shouldn't be notably slower than the Stradale. The latter hits 62 mph from a standing start in 2.5 seconds, and the Spider could be just as fast. Top speed should remain unchanged at 211 mph, but only when the top is in place. With the roof down, top speed should decrease to a little over 200 mph.

Just like the SF90 Stradale, the SF90 Spider is available with an additional package for drivers who want to push the hybrid supercar even more to the limit. It's called the Assetto Fiorano pack and includes a list of upgrades like Multimatic shock absorbers derived from the Ferrari’s GT racing program. The bundle also adds carbon-fiber and titanium elements that shave some 46 pounds off the car’s weight, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and road-homologated Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires designed to improve track performance. Finally, the Assetto Fiorano package enables an optional two-tone livery.

Ferrari SF90 Spider specifications

How much does the Ferrari SF90 Spider cost?

We don't know that yet, but we do know that the SF90 Stradale retails from $625,000. This means that the Spider version will probably fetch at least $650,000 before options.