Photo: Alexandre Prévot from Nancy, France · CC BY-SA 2.0
Production2004–2009
EngineV8
The F430 succeeded the popular 360 and was unveiled in Paris in 2004. Pininfarina and Frank Stephenson reworked its styling for improved aerodynamics, with taillights and vents echoing the Enzo at the rear. The V8 develops 490 PS. It became the first road-going Ferrari fitted with an electronically controlled differential, the "E-Diff," while the "manettino" rotary dial for chassis settings was placed on the steering wheel. Until the arrival of the 458, it was Ferrari's entry-level model.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Good to know
- The new V8 from the F136 engine family brought an end to an approximately fifty-year lineage that dated back to the Dino racing program.
- Despite a 20 percent increase in displacement, engine weight grew by only 4 kg.
- The manettino offers five settings that adjust ESC, "Skyhook" suspension, transmission, throttle response, and the E-Diff.
- In the United States, Ferrari was granted an exemption from airbag regulations so the car could continue to be sold.
Learn moreDesign · Engine · Electronics and brakes · Market and tires
Design
Pininfarina designed the body in collaboration with Frank Stephenson, Director of Concept Design at Ferrari-Maserati. The drag coefficient remained unchanged, yet downforce increased significantly. While the chassis, roofline, doors, and glass were carried over from the 360, the F430 looks distinctly different. The rear features taillights and cooling louvers reminiscent of the Enzo, while the driver's side Testarossa-style mirror has the car's name embossed on it.
Engine
The 4308 cm³ V8 belongs to the F136 family. It produces 490 PS at 8500/min and 465 Nm at 5250/min, 80 percent of which is available below 3500/min. Connecting rods, pistons, and the crankshaft are new, while the four-valve cylinder heads and intake trumpets are derived straight from Formula 1 engines. Despite its larger displacement, the engine is packaged more compactly. Top speed exceeds 196 mph.
Electronics and brakes
The E-Diff is a computer-controlled limited-slip differential that distributes torque based on steering angle and lateral acceleration. The manettino on the steering wheel is reminiscent of Land Rover's "Terrain Response." Developed alongside Brembo and Bosch, the brakes introduced a molybdenum-iron alloy for better heat dissipation. Ceramic brakes were available as an option, which Ferrari claimed showed no fade even after 300 to 360 laps of the test track.
Market and tires
The F430 was unveiled at the 2004 Paris Motor Show and remained Ferrari's entry-level model until the launch of the 458. It succeeded the 360, until then Ferrari's best-selling model. An estimated 16,750 units were produced from 2005 onwards. Bespoke Goodyear Eagle F1 GSD3 EMT tires were offered, featuring a V-shaped tread pattern, run-flat capability, and OneTRED technology.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari F430
When was the Ferrari F430 built?
The Ferrari F430 was built from 2004 to 2009.
How much power does the Ferrari F430 have?
Power of the Ferrari F430: F430 & Spider: 490 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari F430 have?
Engine of the Ferrari F430: 4.3 l Ferrari F136 E V8. It sits behind the seats as a mid-engine.
How many Ferrari F430 were built?
Units built of the Ferrari F430: ca. 16750.
Who designed the Ferrari F430?
Design of the Ferrari F430: Frank Stephenson in collaboration with Pininfarina.
What are the predecessor and successor of the Ferrari F430?
Predecessor: Ferrari 360. Successor: Ferrari 458.
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