As we are used to by now, the logical order for the Ferrari models is: simple model, challenge model and challenge stradalle model. It was like this for the 360: first 360 Modena, then 360 Challenge and then 360 Challenge Stradale, so it will also be like this for the F430 too: first F430, then F430 Challenge and the next on the list is of course the F430 Challenge Stradale. The new model will go on sale in early 2007 and will be the main competitor for the Porsche’s RS models.
Comparing to Porsche that makes the RS models lighter but keeps horsepower the same, Ferrari is giving its CS not just a lighter body, but also more power. As the history tells the F430 CS will have a more powerful V8 engine than the F430 Challenge. For example, for the 360, both Modena and 360 Challenge were powered by a V8 engine with an output of 400 hp and the 360 CS got a more powerful engine: a 325 hp V8.
The F430 and F430 Challenge are powered by a 490 hp V8 engine and we expect the new F430 CS to get by the same V8 engine, but with bigger output: 520 hp. The standard F430 has a curb weight of 3196 lbs and it is expected that the new F430 CS to be 220 lbs lighter.
What will be the difference between 430 Challenge and 430 CS? The biggest changes are the exhaust pipes that got moved up a bit and are producing a lot of great music to all Ferrari fans out there. The F430 uses aluminum extensively, so carbon-fiber components will be used in the quest for reduced mass: the inside of the doors for example will be made of carbon fiber.
Also, in order to reduce the weight, the 430 CS will feature Magnesium sport wheels and the carbon grille in the back (also good to better cool the engine) and the door windows won’t be made of plastic like on the 360 CS. The exhaust pipes are located further up in the middle and not on the side like in the F 430.
The brakes are upgraded with bigger discs, the soft Pirelli P-Zero tires give the car enormous grip, and the interior is completed with deep sport seats. A successor for the F430 it is expected to debut around 2010 that will be powered by a 5.4 liter V10 engine with an output around 550-600 hp. The new model will be called F540.