| New Extreme Variant | Frankfurt Motor Show | Ferrari F430 Scuderia |
In the same week that Porsche was forced to reveal the new
530bhp 911 GT2, Ferrari has released first details and images of its own extreme range-topper in the keenly anticipated F430 Scuderia.
Set to be unveiled to the public at the
Frankfurt Show in September by none other than Michael Schumacher, the Scuderia is targeted at serious driving enthusiasts with reduced weight and more power grabbing the headlines. To be precise, Ferrari has trimmed a significant 100kg out of the none-too-portly regular F430, the new car allegedly weighing just 1,250kg. Power from the 4.3-litre V8 has been upped as well, to 503bhp (510PS) at 8,500rpm, which is guaranteed to tingle the spine thanks to a new exhaust system.
The photographs clearly show a new position for the twin-exit pipes, now sitting either side of the number plate, just as used in the F430 race car. This measure was introduced as part of the car's enhanced aerodynamics, allowing the fitment of a prominent, distinctly shaped diffuser at the rear, with a more subtle splitter at the front. Other aesthetic changes include a larger (though still relatively understated) rear spoiler, a black panel below the rear lights housing further engine ventilation and a set of distinctive gold-painted 19-inch alloys. We're not so sure about the colour of the latter, but the design is gorgeous and no doubt ultra-light. As a bonus, they allow the onlooker more than just a peek at the huge carbon brakes.
Until Frankfurt, we won't know if the special brakes are standard, but we are told that the Scuderia will be fitted with the "F1 Superfast" software, enabling gearchanges in as low as 60 milliseconds, suggesting that the Scuderia may not be offered as a manual at all. A new traction control system is also included, which integrates the E-Diff (electronic limited slip differential) with Ferrari's F1-Trac traction and stability management. It should be something rather special to drive, particularly on track.
Shane O' Donoghue - 19 Jul 2007