Surprise awaited those who attended the annual dealer’s meet of Ferrari held at Maranello. They were treated to a live view of the 458 Challenge which is the newest track car from Ferrari.
In line with its previous version the 430, this new one, the 458 Challenge is one more racing car from the factory that has been known to produce such speed setters. The Challenger also holds similarity when it comes to its road sense to the 458 Italia. The car has a 4.5 liter V8 engine that produces 562 hp at 9000 rpm. The gear ratio and calibration has been changed so the torque curve would be different. For transmission the car has a seven-speed dual clutch system and this favors the torque at lower engine speeds.
Sticking to Ferrari traditions this car also has a huge plethora of packages installed within it. There is the Electronic differential system that was fitted on the 458 regular models and now comes on the track car as well and is termed the “E-Diff”. Height of the car has been reduced by 1.2 inches by using special race oriented suspension. By using Lexan and carbon fiber the car weight also has been reduced. Brakes are Brembo brakes which is a new technology on its own. This technology had been introduced with the 599XX model and then Ferrari also allowed for a F1-Trac traction control system. This allowed for the driver to select the type of brake system depending on wet or dry conditions. There is an increase in acceleration by two seconds due to these modifications.
The price of the car as per Ferrari would make it available for both highly wealthy and not so wealthy people. However the car is not meant for street use given its high driving prowess.
Source: caranddriver
