A prototype Ferrari F430 Challenge was caught recently (200606)
undertaking development testing at the Vallelunga circuit.The new
V8-engined Ferrari F430 'berlinetta' was introduced to the world during
last September's Paris Mondial de l'Automobile to replace the incumbent
360 Modena model, and likewise on the race tracks, the new F430
Challenge will shortly supersede the 360 Challenge. From 2006 the two
models will run side-by-side in the Italian-based Pirelli Trophy and the
pan-European Shell Cup. As the F430 Challenge development programme
cranks up the gears, a prototype has been captured at the Vallelunga
circuit near Rome. This appearance follows on from recent tests which
took place at Ferrari's in-house Fiorano test track and at Monza, the
long-time home of the Italian Grand Prix. In the hands of Raffaele De
Simone, who is this year contesting the Trophy Pirelli Italy driving a
360 Challenge entered by the Ineco/RAM team, the bright yellow machine
was caught on film at Vallelunga by photographer Gino Allegritti. The
project is being undertaken by Ferrari in conjunction with their
long-time race tuning partners Michelotti. The project is currently in a
very early stage of development, with the prototypes on the track
visually almost identical to the road-going version of the F430.
Alongside the standard production panels, a number of distinguishing
features can be made out. These include a full roll protection cage,
race seats equipped with multi-point harnesses, Perspex door glass with
a slide-opening aperture, front tow hook, and bonnet release pins. At
the rear, a new performance exhaust system is featured, with two single
pipes replacing the quad-outlet affair featured on the standard F430. A
quick release fuel cap, finished in aluminium, is now located on the
C-post, whilst the wheels have been upgraded to single central nut
attachment type. One red prototype has also received a large sun-blind,
taking up half of the front windscreen. The suspension has also been
modified for the track, particularly noticeable at the rear end, where
the ride height has been dropped substantially. Other details include
air jacks and Brembo CCM Composite Cermanic Disks, further underlining
that this technology is reliable and trouble free. CCM disks are
exceptionally light and provide excellent braking efficiency in all
conditions and practically never wear.
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