Ferrari Flaunts F430 Scuderia

2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
Enlarge Photo

Retired Formula One world champion and Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher was at the Frankfurt Motor Show to unveil a new model, the 430 Scuderia — and to cause a mega-mob at the Ferrari press conference, rendering photos, much less breathing, a dicey proposition.

A special lightweight version of the F430 two-seater, the Scuderia has Schumacher’s touch; the German driver contributed extensively to the car’s development at different stages.

Externally, the styling has been tweaked to improve the car’s aerodynamic efficiency by increasing overall downforce, but still retaining the same drag values as the F430. The efficiency of the revamped rear diffuser has been enhanced by the addition of a revised profile for the spoiler at the rear of the engine cover, and by the large venturi tunnels that run from the front wheel housings to the rear bumpers.

The newcomer is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.3-liter V-8 engine, which allows it to sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Company sources say it can complete a lap at Fiorano track in Italy in the same time as the Ferrari Enzo.

Other changes include modification to the fuel inlet ducts and exhaust system, special coils in the ignition system and increased compression ratios.

It also gets a different exhaust note. Technology has been used to optimize the 430 Scuderia’s intake and exhaust systems and sound damping, with the result that the exhaust and engine sound inside the cabin is “clear, powerful and particularly thrilling in full acceleration” according to the company. Not surprisingly, visitors to the Frankfurt stand weren’t given this audio treat.

Related Articles

2007 Frankfurt Auto Show Coverage by TCC Team (9/10/2007)

Ferrari Sets Guinness Record by Richard Yarrow (6/11/2007)
Longest ever parade of Ferraris logged at track.

Ferrari F430 Challenge Stradale Spied! by Hans Lehmann/Hidden Image (5/2/2007)
Ferrari's Porsche RS fighter blows its cover.