The F430's interior mimics the exterior in that there are plenty of references to the Enzo, but it's still well within the domain of the outgoing Modena. The dashboard and instrumentation are straightforward with a bold Girard-Perregaux-style yellow-faced rev-counter up front and center. All other gauges are smaller and offset to either side with standard black faces. The center console takes on a simpler look, featuring a radio, Enzo-style five-star vents and simple rotary switches for the HVAC system. Fine leather trim swathes the dashboard, as well as the pair of sporty, redesigned bucket seats.
In order to catch the first glimpse of the F430, you'll need to make your way over to the Place Champs D'Elysées in Paris for the car's late September debut. At the motor show, the final details regarding specification, pricing and availability will be announced. The first European deliveries are expected to take place starting as early as October or November, but it will be several months before the cars are expected to show up on our shores. The North American debut should be at either the LA or Detroit shows. Pricing is expected to be about 5 percent higher than current models.
Like the F360, Ferrari has plans for a soft-top Spyder version, as well as a driver-focused, stripped-out version similar to the Challenge Stradale. It's expected that the Stradale will further increase the power of the 4.3-liter V8, and further lighten the car's curb weight by use of exotic materials like carbon fiber. These two models will arrive within approximately two years at the latest, and be priced accordingly for their additional specifications.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated MSRP): N/A
- Body Type: 2-door coupe
- Layout: mid engine, RWD
- Engine: 490-hp, 343 lb-ft of torque, 4.3-L, DOHC V8
- Transmission: 6-spd sequential manual
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS (optional Carbon-Ceramic)
- Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 177.6 / 75.7 / 47.8 / 102.4 in
- Curb Weight: 3,190 lbs
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): under 4.0 seconds
- Top Speed: 196 mph
- Direct Competitors: Acura NSX, Audi Le Mans, Cadillac XLR-V, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Chrysler ME Four-Twelve (if built), Dodge Viper SRT-10, Ford GT, Lamborghini Gallardo, Maserati Coupe/Spyder, Mercedes-Benz SL55/65, Panoz Esperante, Porsche 997 Turbo/GT2/GT3
- Web Site: www.ferrari.it or www.ferrarina.com
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
