Ferrari F430 Challenge 2007
January 1, 2007
Only in auto racing does one pay much more for much less. That’s certainly the case with the F430 Challenge model. This coupe, a modified F430, is destined for the Ferrari Challenge racing series, where it will replace the 360 Challenge for 2007. Out goes the clever manettino switch, which tailors the car’s performance to various driving conditions with the flick of the wrist. Out goes the trick electronic differential in favor of a conventional mechanical unit. The automated-manual gearbox and engine management control are set to the equivalent of the "race" setting on the standard F430. Ferrari also replaces the analog gauges with a digital unit, installs a quick-release steering wheel with no airbag, and swaps out much of the glass for lightweight Lexan plastic. A specific exhaust, center-mounted 19-inch wheels wearing Pirelli slicks, and the elimination of many interior panels round out the changes. The result is a vehicle several hundred pounds lighter and considerably quicker but less sophisticated than the standard F430. As you might imagine, the Challenge is not street legal.
PRICE: $228,850
ENGINE: 4.3-liter V-8
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automated manual
POWER: 490 hp at 8,500 rpm
TORQUE: 343 ft lbs at 5,250 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 2,695 pounds
0-60 MPH: 3.9 seconds
TOP SPEED: over 196 mph
PROS: You get to race it
CONS: You have to race it
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