Schumacher digs the Ferrair California

With so much time on his hands and not much other than racing motorcycles to quench his need for speed, Michael Schumacher has found his place back at the Ferrari factory where he most recently completed his share of development testing for the automaker's upcoming California sports car. The seven time Formula 1 world champion has been involved with the car since its early inception and has played a critical role in tuning the cars performance abilities alongside Maranello's accomplished technicians, engineers and test-drivers. Prior to the California, Schumi's racing and go-fast expertise were employed throughout the evolution of the track oriented 430 Scuderia (not to mention the Enzo and a variety of other projects). Although powered by much the same aluminum V-8 engine but built with two distinct identities, its no real shock that according to Schumacher, "They were designed to meet different requirements: the 430 Scuderia is aimed at drivers who want the very essence of a Ferrari and will get it out on the track as often as they can. The Ferrari California, on the other hand, is designed for everyday use and for weekends away whilst still guaranteeing all of the emotional impact that only an authentic Ferrari can deliver." If the Ferrari California is on your fantasy car list (or list of things to buy), be sure to stop by our recently posted "Californias in the U.S." spotters page. Ferrari's official debut for its latest model is slated for October 2 at the Paris International Motor Show.