2008 Ferrari F430

The F430 is derived from a long line of attractive, mid-engined V8 Ferraris, and for 2008, it continues to be available as either a coupe or a soft-top Spider (convertible).

Both the standard F430 coupe and the Spider are powered by a 4.3L V8 engine delivering 490 hp at 8,500 rpm, with 343 ft-lb of torque at 5,250 rpm. Such power scoots the F430 to 62 mph in only four seconds and on to a top speed of 191 mph. The Scuderia ups the ante to 510 hp, and sheds about half a second in getting to 62 mph.

A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on the F430, but an F1-style 6-speed sequential manual transmission is optional. The sequential gearbox includes paddles alongside the steering wheel and can shift faster than the most skilled drivers--in about 150 milliseconds--and also blip the throttle to match revs during downshifts. On the Scuderia, the transmission is tuned to provide shifts even faster -- just 60 milliseconds.

The E-diff electronic differential helps to optimize traction during cornering and is derived from Ferrari's expertise in Formula One racing. The F430 also offers powerful anti-lock brakes with cross-drilled rotors. An electronic stability control system is also offered that includes several modes that are selectable through a switch on the steering wheel. The system changes the stability control's behavior depending on the conditions. A "race" mode allows enthusiastic driving while maintaining the most minimal amount of electronic interference. The Scuderia goes a step further and integrates E-diff with F1-Trac traction control, which improves acceleration out of corners by 40%.

The F430's interior fits two in a tight, racing style seating position. The leather and carbon fiber interior is well-appointed but not overtly luxurious, with an improved new design that focuses on driver control. Options include a navigation system, upgraded sound system, custom luggage, carbon-fiber race seats, several colors of leather upholstery, special alloy wheels and Bluetooth wireless. The Scuderia sheds weight by losing its carpeting. It also benefits from standard lightweight Super Racing seats, more carbon fiber throughout and less sound proofing material throughout.
The popular Ferrari F430 sees a few changes for 2008. The interior has been restyled for improved driver ergonomics, with a new instrument binnacle and more centralized driver controls on the steering wheel. Additionally, the F430 Challenge racer has been dropped in favor of the new F430 Scuderia model. The Scuderia is essentially a street version of the Challenge, boasting 510 hp, which is up 20 hp from the standard F430. The Scuderia's interior is stripped of creature comforts, and the car weighs 220 lb less than the standard F430. It also employs a revised suspension and Ferrari's latest racing-derived electronic gizmos to improve performance. The Scuderia is priced at around $257,500.
Exotic Ferrari styling; extreme racecar-like performance; Entry-level Ferrari model.
The 2008 F430 is Ferrari's current mid-engine, V8-powered supercar, and it provides quicker performance than more expensive Ferrari models of just a few years ago. The F430 is, in every way a super car, but it is Ferrari's entry-level model, with pricing starting at $186,925. This price buys a piece of the exceptional handling, blistering performance, and automotive racing heritage Ferrari has spent the last 60 years cultivating.