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This report provides a quick overview of the features and specs for the 2008 Ferrari F430.
By Cars.com StaffCars.com
January 3, 2008
Ferrari unveiled the successor to its 360 Modena at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. The new two-seat sports car was substantially more powerful, and is offered in both coupe and convertible form. A high-performance model called Scuderia joins the lineup for 2008, with a limited run of 250 available. In the same way that the previous 360 Modena had the Challenge Stradale performance variant, the Scuderia adds racing flavor to the F430. Several innovations were derived from Ferrari's Formula One racecars. Two of them were "world firsts" for production cars: the E-Diff electronic differential, which optimizes traction, and the steering-wheel-mounted commutator switch, which controls the vehicle dynamics systems. A rear-mounted 4.3-liter V-8 generates 490 horsepower, which results in a weight-to-power ratio of 6.2 pounds per horsepower. According to Ferrari, the F430 can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 4 seconds. For the Scuderia, zero to 62 mph happens in an estimated 3.6 seconds. The extra acceleration comes from more power — 510 hp total — and lighter weight. Exterior Largely hand-built in Italy like other Ferraris, the F430 features an aerodynamic shape that incorporates contemporary competition technologies — specifically, a flat underbody and a large rear diffuser, which increases downforce. For Scuderia models, this diffuser has been modified for even more downforce. Upper and lower air intakes sit to the rear of each door. An enormous, nearly flat back window allows the V-8 to be seen from the outside. An optional braking system uses carbon-ceramic discs; Scuderias come with these discs standard, though the discs are larger than the standard F430's. Often finished in traditional red and devoid of brightwork, the F430's body barely clears the ground. Four round taillights sit high on the deck, flanking a relatively subtle spoiler. Four exhaust outlets poke out near the bottom edges. Built on a 102.4-inch wheelbase, the F430 measures 177.6 inches long overall, 75.7 inches wide and 47.8 inches tall. The front track width is a sizable 65.7 inches. Behind each seat in the F430 Spider convertible are long nacelles that trail into the rear deck alongside the engine's viewing panel. Interior Ferraris are known for snug cockpits, and the F430's two-passenger space is no exception. There's a red engine start button, and paddles alongside the steering wheel control the operation of the available F1 gearbox. Scuderias use carbon fiber anywhere possible to make the car weigh less, including the interior, where even the driver's seat is made of the lightweight material. Under the Hood The F430 holds a 4.3-liter V-8 that develops 490 hp at 8,500 rpm and 343 pounds-feet of torque at 5,250 rpm. Either a traditional six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed sequential manual can be installed. Ferrari claims the Formula One-derived sequential gearbox cuts shift times down to 150 milliseconds. In the Scuderia, the engine has been bumped up to 510 hp. It makes its peak power at 8,500 rpm. The only transmission offered is the F1-style sequential gearbox, which has been improved for even faster shifts than the regular F430's transmission. Safety Antilock brakes, an electronic stability system and traction control are standard. Find a USED 2008 F430 for SaleFind used car inventory in your area.
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