Ferrari F430 Berlinetta | Prancing Horse

Ferrari F430 Berlinetta

The F430 signals the arrival of a brand new generation of Ferrari 8-cylinder models. This new car takes Ferrari's extraordinary achievements with aluminium technology, begun with the 360 Modena, to a whole new level, and offers a series of extremely significant innovations directly derived from the Ferrari Formula 1 single-seaters. Two of these innovations are world firsts for production cars: the electronic differential (E-Diff) and the steering wheel-mounted switch (better known to the Formula 1 Scuderia's drivers as 'manettino'), which manages the integrated systems governing vehicle dynamics.

The other main characteristics of the new F430 are its light, compact 4,300 cc 90° V8 engine, which punches out 490 hp to achieve a specific output of 114 hp/litre, also providing the new Ferrari berlinetta with a weight-to-power ratio of 2.8 kg/hp (dry weight); a braking system with carbon-ceramic discs for optimal efficiency under extreme use; a Formula 1-derived gearbox that cuts gear shifting times down to 150 milliseconds allowing the driver to make the very most of this truly high performance car (0-62 mph acceleration in 4 seconds flat, a top speed in excess of 196 mph); and an aerodynamic design that embodies the very latest competition technologies, specifically the flat underbody and large rear diffuser to increase downforce. The car was officially presented during the Paris Motor show in September 2004.

Ferrari F355

The first Ferrari ever built was an open-top. Spiders always held a very special and vital place in Enzo Ferraris’ heart and later in that of the company itself. The inspiration behind every Ferrari spider is a mix of a genuinely sporty engineering and the thrill of open-top driving. The 355 F1 Spider brought this spirit to a whole new level by melding the berlinetta and the GTS’s acknowledged performance with a superbly efficient electronically-operated semi-automatic soft top. The factors that made the F355 such a successful model made the transition unaltered to the Pininfarina-styled 355 F1 Spider: a very elastic 380 hp engine with five valves per cylinder, 109 hp/litre specific power output, 4.7-second 0 a 100 km/h sprinting and 37 Kgm of torque. With respect to the F355 Spider, the 355 F1 Spider had an F1-style gearbox management system. Just like the one used for the single-seater, the electro-hydraulic system controlled the manual gearbox using sophisticated software. It was itself operated via two paddles, one on each side of the steering wheel, which meant that the driver did not have to take his hands off the steering wheel whilst changing gears either.

The two-seater 355 F1 Spider had an aluminium and steel body. Its styling was moulded around an aerodynamically severe design that included a full-body undertray designed to equalise downforce (Cl) between the two axles. The cabin was designed with both safety and driving pleasure in mind. The seats and trim were Connolly leather. Composite racing seats were also available to order.

The chassis was a steel monocoque with a tubular steel rear sub-frame for the engine-suspension assembly. Both front and rear suspension used independent unequal-length wishbones and coil springs over gas-filled telescopic electronic dampers with two settings. The car also has anti-roll bars.The steering was rack and pinion with power-assist, and optional mechanical gear. The brakes had self-venting discs and excludable ABS ATE. The 18” wheel rims were magnesium.

The mid-rear 3496 cc 90° V8 was longitudinally mounted and punched out 380 hp, giving it a specific power output of 109 hp/l. Distribution was by means of twin overhead cams with five valves per cylinder. The con rods were titanium, while the control unit was the Bosch M5.2. Dry sump lubrication and a six-speed plus reverse mechanical gearbox completed the picture along with a dry single-plate clutch. It had an F1-style gearbox management system.

Ferrari 328 GTS

The 328 GTS model, together with the fixed roof 328 GTB, were the final developments of the normally aspirated transverse V8 engine 2 seat series. The 328 figures in the model title referred to the total cubic capacity of the engine, 3.2 litres, and 8 for the number of cylinders. The new model was introduced at the 1985 Frankfurt Salon alongside the Mondial 3.2 series.

Essentially the new model was a revised and updated version of the 308 GTS, which had survived for eight years without any radical change to the overall shape, albeit with various changes to the 3 litre engine. The 328 model presented a softening of the wedge profile of its predecessor, with a redesigned nose that had a more rounded shape, which was complimented by similar treatment to the tail valance panel. The revised nose and tail sections featured body colour bumpers integral with the valance panels, which reflected the work done concurrently to present the Mondial 3.2 models, with which they also shared a similar radiator grille and front light assembly layout. Thus all the eight cylinder cars in the range shared fairly unified front and rear aspects, providing a homogeneous family image. The exhaust air louvres behind the retractable headlight pods on the 308 series disappeared, coupled with an increase in the size of the front lid radiator exhaust air louvre, which had been introduced on the 308 Quattrovalvole models, whilst a new style and position of exterior door catch was also provided. The interior trim also had a thorough overhaul, with new designs for the seat panel upholstery and stitching, revised door panels and pulls, together with more modern switchgear, which complimented the external updating details. Optional equipment available was air conditioning, metallic paint, Pirelli P7 tyres, a leather dashboard, leather headlining to the removable roof panel plus rear window surround, and a rear aerofoil (standard on Japanese market models).

In the middle of 1988 ABS brakes were made available as an option, which necessitated a redesign of the suspension geometry to provide negative offset. This in turn meant that the road wheel design was changed to accommodate this feature. The original flat spoke "star" wheels became a convex design, in the style as fitted to the 3.2 Mondial models, whether ABS was fitted or not.

The main European market 328 GTS models had a tubular chassis with a factory type reference F 106 MS 100. Disc brakes, with independent suspension via wishbones, coil springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers, were provided all round, with front and rear anti roll bars. There were various world market models, each having slight differences, with right and left hand drive available.

The V8 engine was essentially of the same design as that used in the 308 Quattrovalvole model, with an increase in capacity to 3185cc, with a bore and stroke of 83mm x 73mm, and a type reference number F 105 CB 000. The engine retained the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system of its predecessor, but was fitted with a Marelli MED 806 A electronic ignition system, to produce a claimed power output of 270bhp at 7000rpm. As with the preceding 308 models the engine was mounted in unit with the all synchromesh five speed transmission assembly, which was below, and to the rear of the engine's sump.

The 328 GTS continued in production for four years, until replaced by the 348 ts model in the Autumn of 1989, during which time 6068 examples were produced in the chassis number range of 59301 to 83136, the GTS production outnumbering the GTB version almost five to one. The early part of the series was numbered in the Ferrari odd number road car chassis sequence, and later examples (post chassis number 75000) in the continuous number sequence.

For Sale

Prancing Horse has been operating Ferrari drive experiences for some years now and as a result we have learnt a lot about the Ferrari business and the cars they make. If you are interested in selling a Ferrari, or buying one, please feel free to contact us on 1300 30 70 50 to discuss your options.

Ferrari F430 Spider

Ferrari 360 Spider

The 360 Spider was Ferrari’s 20th road-going convertible. It was also the best spider ever built at Maranello pre-2000 in terms of its technical content, styling and performance. In fact, this was the most technologically advanced spider in the world at the time of its launch thanks to the exclusive transfer of features derived directly from Ferrari’s experiences on the Formula 1 track. Despite its 400-hp V8 engine’s mid-position (five valves per cylinder), the Ferrari technicians still managed to design a hood that folded away automatically inside the engine bay and guaranteed its superb purity of line. This was further underscored by two fairings in the bodywork to the rear of the seats which evoke memories of Ferrari’s classic sports cars and the roll-bars that guaranteed a safe ride for driver and passenger.

The work done on the chassis focused on delivering maximum static and dynamic rigidity. The sills were reinforced too, the front part of the floor pan was stiffened, and the windshield structure redesigned. The rear bulkhead too was stiffened to dampen engine noise. The 360 Spider’s structural prowess and dynamic response set a whole new chassis-bodywork benchmark for drop-top cars, in fact. The 360 Spider’s lucky occupants were enclosed in a very strong protective crash cage completed by two tubular steel roll bars which were an actually part of the drop-top system. Together with the strengthened windscreen frame, these guaranteed significant protection in case of a roll-over. The 360 Spider had the same suspension as the coupé (double wishbone suspension front and rear) with the same antidive and antisquat geometries. Rolling and pitching were reduced to an absolute minimum and the 360 Spider proved extraordinarily precise entering corners.

The 360 Spider’s running gear was exactly the same as the berlinetta’s: a mid-rear 3586 cc V8 that punched out 400 hp at 8,500 rpm with a longitudinal gearbox in unit with the differential. The result was that both on the track and on the road the 360 Spider delivered almost identical speeds to the Modena. When the top was up or down, it could exceed 290 km/h, in fact. It was barely 60 kg heavier than its berlinetta counterpart but had the same boot space and cabin space.

Retaining the aerodynamic efficiency of the berlinetta was just one of engineers’ goals with the 360 Spider. This was achieved by using twin radiators and an undertray to channel air beneath the car to extractors under its tail. Long hours spent in the wind tunnel also meant that even though it didn’t have a spoiler or wings, it still delivered downforce of over 170 Kg at maximum speed, just 10 less than the berlinetta. This downforce figure was achieved by adding a Formula 1-derived nolder on the leading edge of the tail. The Cd went the berlinetta’s 0.33 to 0.36 in the Spider, well within normal range for a drop-top car.

Ferrari 458 Italia - Coming Soon!

The Ferrari 458 Italia will be joining the collection later this year exclusively for the Prancing Horse Ferrari Weekend Escape.

Here is what the journalist's have to say:

'Supercar of the Year'
Our Supercar of the Year is the new benchmark in getting from A to B as rapidly as possible. This car is compliant and controlled like no other supercar you have ever driven. Period. Don’t think improved, think altogether different to. This is a game-changing car.

'Car of the Year'
because it’s our winner because the scope of its abilities is absolutely breathtaking. … the 458 Italia isn’t just a worthy winner, it’s off the scale.
Top Gear, 2 December 2009

"The Ferrari 458 Italia is described as a real technological icon with innovations from F1 and an unbeatable performance"
El Pais, 28 November 2009

"Ferrari put its soul in this car, a synthesis of the highest form of technology"
SportAuto (France), December 2009 edition

"The 458 Italia is an awesome example of car-making art at its highest level and is probably the finest sports car you can buy."
The Daily Mail, 24 november 2009

"The steering is incredibly sharp, but there's none of the wound-up feel of previous models. The 458 goes sideways but it doesn't come off the slide with a bang, more a polite murmur."
Daily telegraph, 24 november 2009

"The Italia feels like a feisty thoroughbred stallion you are convinced is going to run away with you, but very quickly you realise that it can cope with anything the road can throw at you, thanks to an impressive array of gadgetry. It grips the road like a leech and seems to get more grip the harder you go, almost challenging you to go faster."
The Sun, 24 november 2009

"World’s best, the new reference point to beat."
Le Figaro, 24 november 2009

"It’s our “golden wheel”. If we had to pick our top 10 in terms of driving pleasure the new Ferrari 458 Italia would happily take the top spot."
L’Equipe, 24 november 2009

"The 458 Italia’s breathtaking acceleration is a moment of happiness even for the ears and the steering’s sweetness allows you to take corner after corner without getting tired."
Le Monde, 24 november 2009

"Turn the key, prepare for hyperspace. Only the Italians could invent such an expensive mistress, but then only the Italians could flatter you in the way the 458 does. The low-slung seats – you can visit the factory and select the colour of the stitching and seatbelts to match your chosen paintwork – elevate you above everything else on the road."
Sunday Times, 24 november 2009

"This 458 Italia has totally conquered us. This new two-seater mid-engine model from Ferrari gave us a lecture in dynamics with its ability of drift control."
Auto Motor und Sport, 24 november 2009

"I drove the 458 solidly for five hours and came away hugely impressed. It responded to my two big doubts (the gearbox and steering) in the best possible way: by putting a smile on my face."
Autocar, 24 november 2009

"The latest all-new Ferrari is the most useable yet - a racer for the road but with more than a nod in the direction of GT talents as well. Perhaps the greatest compliment we can pay the 458 is that it no longer feels like it needs a Challenge Stradale or Scuderia version. The 458 does it all. And does it bloody well."
Top Gear, 24 november 2009

"Born out of competence, but foremost out of the best Ferrari engineers’ passion. A car introducing unseen technical content, but also a supercar completely involving the driver. Easy to exploit and exhilarating on the road and on the track."
Automobilismo, 24 november 2009

"Ferrari without limits. Smooth on the road, angry on the track."
Corriere della Sera, 10 November 2009

"The incredible technological evolution of the supercar. The 458 Italia is the result of a new way of interpreting sportiness made in Maranello, creating a formula of sustainable development of the traditional Ferrari values, valid today and even more so in the future."
La Repubblica, 10 November 2009

"The car amazes with its stability to instill confidence ... It's also one of the prettiest and best engineered supercars of this century"
Motor Trend, 10 November 2009

"The steering is exceedingly well tuned. Perfectly weighted. Perfectly precise. Perfectly communicative. Perfect. Divinely perfect."
Automobile, 10 November 2009

"Just brilliant to drive, it worths its price"
Autocar, 10 November 2009

"Enthralling driving on the road, extreme handling and a gratifying sensation of being one with the car. In other words: having complete control."
Quattroruote, 10 November 2009

Ferrari California

The Ferrari California is the first Ferrari Gran Turismo with a mid-front 8-cylinder engine: a vehicle that uncompromisingly combines sportiness with versatility, guaranteeing the maximum driving pleasure characteristic of cars from Maranello. The Ferrari California is a convertible GT with retractable hard-top, making it a car with a dual soul: coupé and spider rolled into one. It is based on the original 2+ concept, which provides great flexibility for use in different driving conditions.

The new Ferrari California will satisfy even the most demanding of owners in term of its superb vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure. The new model will be available exclusively as a convertible with a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are aluminium, in line with the rest of the current range. The California will be powered by a new V8 engine mounted for the first time in the marque's history in the mid-front position.

In line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also features several innovations. Apart from its folding hard top, these include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The California's 4,300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a "flat" crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari.

As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the engine, which allows the Ferrari California to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds, will be coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that boosts the car's performance while enhancing the driving pleasure, improves ride comfort and reduces fuel consumption and emissions (c.310 g/km CO2). The comfort is further enhanced by a new multilink rear suspension system. The Ferrari California is also equipped with the exclusive F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to suit the typical driving conditions expected for this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material disks as standard guarantee superbly efficient braking.

In addition to sporting the marque's classic styling cues, the cabin has also been beautifully trimmed using quality materials by Ferrari's own skilled artisans. New accessories and equipment, such as the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system, together with optimised aerodynamics ensure that this is a highly ergonomic and enjoyable car to drive regardless of whether the top is up or down.

The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire a car which embodies everything the Prancing Horse represents in terms of sporty design and innovation, but also seek a car with greater versatility than ever.

Top Speed: 310km/h
0 tp 100km/h: 3.9s
0 to 400m: 12.2s
0-1000m 22.1s

460PS (340kW / 450HP)
Drag Coefficient: 0.32 (the most aerodynamic Ferrari ever made)