Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale

Origins

The Challenge Stradale continued the concept of the F355 "Fiorano," which had received a handling package during the final model year of the F355. The engineers focused on handling, brakes, and weight, planning the car from the outset for 20 percent track and 80 percent road use. Throttle response and steering feel were sharpened. The Porsche 996 GT3 RS was considered its direct competitor.

Lightweight construction

With all lightweight options selected, it was up to 110 kg lighter than the Modena, such as without a radio, with Lexan sliding windows, and Alcantara instead of leather. The bumpers and side skirts were manufactured using the resin transfer molding process. A smaller muffler and valve-controlled tailpipes lightened the engine and transmission by 11 kg, the ceramic brakes saved 16 kg, and BBS supplied lightweight wheels. Customers opting for the stereo and glass windows added back around 30 kg.

Engineering

The 90-degree V8 features five valves per cylinder, Bosch Motronic 7.3, an 85 mm bore, a 79 mm stroke, and an 11.2 to 1 compression ratio; revs are limited to 8650/min. Higher-grade components and more cleanly polished ports brought a 21 kW increase in power to 317 kW. The body received a new front fascia, different side skirts, and an engine lid with a small spoiler. Without a rear wing, downforce is around 270 kgf at 300 km/h.

Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.