Spending a day behind the wheel of the Ferrari Roma Spider was an unforgettable experience that fused Italian elegance with the vibrant chaos of Gauteng traffic. From the moment I slid into the driver’s seat, I knew this was no ordinary car. Ferrari’s stunning open-top grand tourer blended style, power, and everyday usability — a rare trifecta that felt surprisingly at home on Johannesburg’s bustling streets.

Inside, the cabin was a testament to Italian craftsmanship. Supple leather, meticulous stitching, and brushed aluminium surrounded me in refined comfort. The driver-focused layout was enhanced by a curved 16-inch digital display and a minimalist dashboard. High-tech, but intuitive — I could manage navigation and entertainment with ease, all while feeling deeply connected to the road. The Roma Spider’s comfort and usability made it easy to imagine longer weekend escapes, perhaps to the Cradle of Humankind or the winelands near Stellenbosch.

Igniting the engine, the twin-turbo V8 delivered a growling welcome, unleashing 620 horsepower and 760 Nm of torque. Acceleration was instant, yet smooth, even while navigating stop-and-go traffic on the M1 freeway. The Roma Spider may scream performance, but it carries itself with grace. With the roof down, the breeze added a liberating dimension to the drive, allowing me to soak in the cityscape around Melrose Arch and Rosebank in a way that felt both elevated and immersive.

One of the Roma Spider’s most impressive qualities was its handling. Johannesburg’s uneven roads, speed humps, and the occasional pothole rarely make driving a joy, but the adaptive suspension absorbed the imperfections with poise. Precision steering transformed a potentially stressful drive through Bryanston into an unexpectedly enjoyable one. What stood out was the balance between the Roma’s sporty DNA and its everyday practicality. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission offered effortless cruising and sharp, thrilling bursts of acceleration whenever the road opened up.

Pulling up at The Conservatory in Fourways Mall for lunch, the Roma Spider turned heads. From valet attendants to fellow diners, the car’s sculpted lines and assertive stance drew admiration — the perfect complement to the restaurant’s contemporary setting. Over a crisp South African sauvignon blanc and a satisfying lunch, I reflected on the Ferrari’s appeal. It wasn’t just a statement piece; it elevated ordinary moments and made them feel special.

Later, taking the N1 out towards Lanseria Airport, the Roma Spider truly came alive. The V8’s growl deepened, acceleration became intoxicating, and with the roof open, the sounds and scents of the highveld poured in. Passing through the undulating hills near the Cradle, the Roma proved that it wasn’t just about speed — it was about a full sensory experience.

Ferrari hasn’t overlooked safety either. The Roma Spider is equipped with a suite of advanced features: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system made navigating high-traffic areas like Midrand or Sunninghill far more manageable. These technologies offered peace of mind while still leaving room for the visceral thrills Ferrari is known for.

Despite all its exotic flair, the Roma Spider remained surprisingly user-friendly. Its size, paired with front and rear parking sensors, made navigating the tight parking at Rosebank’s popular haunts and fine dining spots like Marble Restaurant refreshingly simple. The soft-close doors and insulated cabin offered a sense of calm exclusivity — whether heading to dinner or simply running errands.

Fuel economy in a supercar is always a concern, but Ferrari’s efficient engine management and mild-hybrid system meant that even in stop-start traffic, the Roma Spider didn’t guzzle fuel excessively. Still, the car is at its best when liberated from the gridlock, when its dynamic character shines through on the open road.

Of course, not every moment was effortless. A burst of unexpected weather in the afternoon demanded a quick closure of the soft-top — which, thankfully, the electric mechanism handled quickly and quietly. And while the Roma’s presence is undeniably magnetic, the constant attention it draws isn’t always welcome in a city where discretion can be a virtue.

As the sun dipped below the Johannesburg skyline, I realised just how much ground — both literal and emotional — the Roma Spider had covered in a single day. From its explosive acceleration and composed handling to its refined luxury and unmistakable presence, it delivered a complete experience. The Roma Spider isn’t merely a car; it’s a way to savour life’s journeys — both grand and everyday — through the lens of Italian artistry.

Whether parked outside a venue like The Saxon or gliding through Newtown’s gritty charm, the Ferrari Roma Spider turns any outing into an occasion. It’s rare to find a supercar that so gracefully marries performance, beauty, and everyday functionality. For those who live for the thrill of driving and the finer things, the Roma Spider is more than transportation — it’s a celebration of movement itself.