Ferrari Challenge Stradale - model information

Introduction

The Challenge Stradale had the precise aim of giving drivers the performance and feel of a true racing car for road use. This aim meant that Ferrari technicians gave exclusive preference to Ferrari Challenge and 360 GT racing-type solutions for all aspects of the car and every single performance parameter, the combination of which gives this car its highly individual character. The starting point was aerodynamics, where the aim was to obtain increased downforce, and followed by all the vehicle-specific features (transmission, set-up and braking, in particular the introduction of carbon-ceramic brakes as standard). And finally, that determining factor for all racing cars' achieving the lowest possible weight.

Design

The Challenge Stradale had the precise aim of giving drivers the performance and feel of a true racing car for road use. This aim meant that Ferrari technicians gave exclusive preference to Ferrari Challenge and 360 GT racing-type solutions for all aspects of the car and every single performance parameter, the combination of which gives this car its highly individual character. The starting point was aerodynamics, where the aim was to obtain increased downforce, and followed by all the vehicle-specific features (transmission, set-up and braking, in particular the introduction of carbon-ceramic brakes as standard). And finally, that determining factor for all racing cars' achieving the lowest possible weight.

Technical Features

The Challenge Stradale was equipped with the existing 360 Modena 90' V8 engine longitudinally mounted behind the cabin in unit with the transmission and differential. Peak power output was raised to 425 hp at 8,500 rpm, an exceptional specific power of 118.5 hp per litre, the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 ever built by Ferrari. The extremely high peak torque remains unchanged at 275lb-ft at 4,750 rpm.

Modifications to the engine include: optimisation of the compression ratio and fluid dynamics through changes to the heads and pistons, polished intake and exhaust ports and manifolds; specific intake timing; use of a new low-load loss airflow meter; reduced exhaust back pressure; reduced friction cylinder liners, and repositioned valve springs.

The Challenge Stradale was equipped exclusively with Ferrari/'s six-speed F1-type electro-hydraulic transmission. In keeping with the character and purpose of the car, the Challenge Stradale's F1 transmission has no automatic mode. "Sport" and "Race" modes are provided for manual changes, the latter capable of consistently accurate 150 millisecond gear-shifts. The choice of these settings engages corresponding integrated car-control logic affecting damper set-up and traction control (ASR) to optimize handling. In "Race" mode with ASR disengaged the driver can engage the "launch control", carry-over of race technology from F1 for high-performance standing starts on good surfaces.

Developed from the superb handling package of the 360 Modena, the Challenge Stradale significantly enhances the same basic architecture.

The titanium front and rear springs are 20% stiffer than on the 360 Modena and a larger diameter rear anti-roll bar has been fitted. Roll and squat have been reduced allowing the Stradale faster, better controlled reaction to steering and directional changes while giving the driver more direct feedback. Shock absorber settings have been revised and the car's centre of gravity has been lowered by 0.6".

The Challenge Stradale benefits from carbon ceramic discs: the result of highly advanced studies conducted by Ferrari and the manufacturer of this system, Brembo. The 15" x 1.3" front discs and 13.8" x 1.3" rear discs feature 6- and 4-pot callipers respectively. The carbon-ceramic system installed on the Challenge Stradale, together with the aluminum brake carriers, produce astounding performance and braking distances, with the added benefit of a 16% weight reduction over conventional brake discs of the same size. The result is 15% better deceleration rates than the 360 Modena.

Specially designed Pirelli P Zero Corsa super-low profile tyres help hold the Stradale to the road surface. Front tyres measure 225/35 while rears measure 285/35, and all are mounted on 19" Challenge-style wheels secured by titanium bolts. This choice of tyre reflects longstanding co-operation between Pirelli and Ferrari, as demonstrated by the Ferrari Challenge-Pirelli Trophy and the FIA GT Championship. Comprehensive testing led to the development of the tyre compound and tread pattern to maximize controlled transfer of power to the road, and a very high lateral acceleration of 1.3g while maintaining superb balance and thermal conditions.

Technical Specification

Engine: Rear, Longitudinal, 90 degree V8
Bore and Stroke: 85x79 mm
Unitary Displacement: 448.2 cc
Total Displacement: 3586 cc
Valve Gear: Twin Overhead Camshafts
Number of Valves: Five per Cylinder
Compression Ratio: 11.2:1
Ignition: Bosch Motronic 7.3 Electrostatic
Coolant: Water
Front Suspension: Independent, Double
Wishbones, Coil Springs, Anti-Roll Bar, Gas Dampers
Rear Suspension: Independent, Double
Wishbones, Coil Springs, Anti-Roll Bar, Gas Dampers
Brakes: Disc
Steering: Rack and Pinion
Fuel Tank: 25 gallons
Front Tires: 225/35 ZR 19
Rear Tires: 285/35 ZR 19
Lubrication: Dry Sump
Maximum Power: 419 bhp at 8500 rpm
Specific Power: 116.8 bhp/ liter
Transmission: Rear-Wheel Drive
Clutch: Single Dry Disc
Gearbox: in Unit with Engine, 6-speed + Reverse, F1
Body: Two-Seater Coupe
Chassis: Aluminium Space Frame
Wheelbase: 102.4 in.
Front Track: 65.7 in.
Rear Track: 63.6 in.
Length: 176.3 in.
Width: 75.7 in.
Height: 47.2 in.
Curb Weight: 2822 lbs.
Top Speed: over 186 mph

Interior

The Challenge Stradale's cockpit contains only essential items. Everything kept from the 360 Modena/'s interior has been rationalized and reinterpreted in the context of competition. Where appropriate, interior aluminium parts have been replaced by carbon-fibre to reduce weight.

As on Ferrari Formula 1 cars, the steering wheel has a flattened crown to improve the driver's line of sight. Behind the wheel are fitted F1 gear-change paddles, the right one lengthened to facilitate upshifts when accelerating out of corners.

The tachometer is located at the centre of the carbon-fibre instrument panel, redesigned with yellow graphics and red indicators that ensure optimum contrast and legibility for the driver's main point of reference within the car.

Carbon-fibre racing seats upholstered with a high-grip fabric are a centrepiece of the cabin. Carpeting and floor mats are not found in the Challenge Stradale.