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Ferrari F430

The latest mid-engine Ferrari to fight in the front lines of the super car league is the F430 that debuted in 2004. Its characteristic V8 engine is no longer the old unit that has shared the basics since the 308GT4 debuting in 1973, but is a newly developed 4.3 liter model. The maximum output of 490ps/8500rpm exceeds even that of the famous F40. The clutch that transmits this power employs a twin plate system for the first time, and the transmission is provided as a six-speed manual or a two-pedal six-speed manual called “F1 Matic”.

The chassis is a model evolved from the 360 Modena that debuted in 1999, with a combination of extruded aluminum material joined with cast aluminum material. With the model change to the F430, some structural changes were made for collision safety purposes, and an especially strong aluminum alloy material used in the aerospace industry called super duralumin forms the floor plate. The shape of the chassis undercarriage diffuser has also been upgraded, producing a 50% increase in down-force compared to the 360 Modena.

The styling is classic Ferrari with contributions from Pininfarina and then-chief designer Frank Stephenson, and features many details reminiscent of the limited edition Enzo Ferrari that was released in 2002.

With an announced actual top speed of 315 km/h, the F430, which offers optional carbon-ceramic brake rotors, is without doubt a top-level super sports car.