2010 Ferrari 458 Italia

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and cutting-edge technology, characteristics for which Italy as a nation is well-known. For this reason Ferrari chose to add the name of its homeland to the traditional figure representing the displacement and number of cylinders. A two-seater berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italia, as is now traditional for all Ferrari's road-going cars, benefits hugely from the company's Formula 1 experience. This is particularly evident in the speed and precision with which the car responds to driver inputs and in the attention focused on reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel consumption than the F430, despite the fact that both overall displacement and power have increased. The Ferrari 458 Italia's Pininfarina design provides further evidence of the complete departure from the past that this new car hails. The Ferrari 458 Italia has a compact, aerodynamic shape, underscoring the concepts of simplicity, efficiency and lightness that inspired the project. The front features a single opening for the front grille and side air intakes, with aerodynamic sections and profiles designed to direct air to the coolant radiators and the new flat underbody. The nose also sports small aero-elastic winglets which generate down force and, as speed rises, deform to reduce the section of the radiator inlets and cut drag. The new 4499 cc V8 is the first Ferrari direct-injection engine to be mid-rear mounted. Equipped with the traditional flat-plane crankshaft, the engine delivers 562 hp at 9000 rpm 398 lbs.-ft. of torque at 6000 rpm, over 80 percent of which is available from 3250 rpm. The 458 Italia is equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which increases performance whilst providing very smooth shifts even at full throttle. The engineers have developed specific, sportier gear ratios to match the power and torque curves of the new V8. The engineers also focused on weight reduction during the design phase for similar reasons. Consequently, the Ferrari 458 Italia has a dry weight of 3,042 pounds. The result of the engineers' endeavors can be summed up in to two simple statistics: 0-62 mph acceleration in under 3.4 seconds and a maximum speed in excess of 200 mph. With regard to vehicle dynamics, the Ferrari 458 Italia's suspension features twin wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear tuned for maximum road holding and superlative handling. The integration of the E-Diff and F1-Trac (now controlled by the same ECU) and their respective mappings is even greater, resulting in a 32 percent increase in longitudinal acceleration out of corners compared to previous models. The same ECU also governs the high-performance ABS, providing even more precise control over the logic threshold and greater efficiency. The brakes also feature a prefill function whereby the pistons in the calipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to minimize delay in the brakes being applied. The Ferrari 458 Italia's interior is another area of the car that exalts its sporty personality. The driver is welcomed by a new layout and a revolutionary ergonomic interface where the main controls are all clustered on the steering wheel. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari Novitec F430 Bi-Compressor SPYDER

NEWS & REVIEWS Background: The twin supercharged offering from Novitec has been on the market since April; however, it is only now becoming available on the Ferrari F430 Spyder. With a stronger output, assertive styling and now availability in a spyder format, the Novitec F430 is sure to be a hit. Performance: Performance from the 4.3L V-8 has dramatically jumped without it going to the gym to make its engine bigger or utilizing a dramatic weight loss program requiring it eat premade meals. No, the F430 gained the power through two new supercharges bolted onto the engine. Along with other add-ons like radiators and upgraded fuel injectors to make the whole package work, the Novitec F430 is good for a tire ripping 656 horsepower. Of course this is more than just a power upgrade. The Novitec F430 Spyder also get an adjustable suspension, ceramic disc brakes with 8-calibers and a different gear ratio set. Exterior: The outside of the Novitec car is aggressive with many subtle changes to give the F430 an aggressive look. The changes include a rear diffuser, front spoiler and bumper, a small rear wing, side skirts and larger inlets and vents. The whole package screams race car and makes me wonder if this car garnish the unnecessary attention from the police. Interior: The interior of the Novitec gets the leather treatment. Simply put they cover the inside with leather picked out by the customer. To help keep the new client from sliding around in his seat as he punches the throttle through corners, the Novitec F430 comes with two new race seats. by: Benjamin Greene PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 SPIDER

NEWS & REVIEWS The upcoming Ferrari California is going to be a landmark car. No doubt about it. Ferrari’s first front-engined V8, first double-clutch ’box, first fold-into-the-trunk hardtop. But the big question is: will it be as good as the F430? Now three years old, this mid-engined projectile still sets the benchmark as the world’s most usable supercar. Yes, Porsche’s 911 Turbo comes close, but it’s not this pretty. Aston Martin’s DB9 is pretty but nothing like this thrilling to drive. And a thrill to drive it is, courtesy of its screaming 490 hp flat-plane crank V-8, its steering wheel mounted manettino switch that fine tunes the car’s traction control set-up, adjustable suspension, and brakes that could stop time. And if the F430 twins—the Coupe F1 or Spider—aren’t hard edged enough for you, there’s always the slimmed-down and stripped-out 503 hp F430 Scuderia to charge your adrenaline. Just saying its name will make your palms hot and sweaty. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia Spider 16M

NEWS & REVIEWS Special series Scuderia Spider 16M unveiled at World Finals in Mugello to celebrate Prancing Horse's 16th F1 Constructor's title. Ferrari has chosen to unveil the new Scuderia Spider 16M at the World Finals in Mugello in celebration of its recent victory in the Formula 1 Constructor's World Championship 2008. This new high performance sports car features the very best of Ferrari's latest mid-rear-engined 8-cylinder technology. In fact, the Scuderia Spider 16M is faster round the Fiorano circuit than any other Prancing Horse open-top road car yet built. This truly evocative special series model, of which just 499 unique examples will be produced, is aimed at the most passionate clients, drivers who demand both exclusivity and superb driving pleasure. The Scuderia Spider 16M is available in a choice of two new signature colour schemes: the standard version is black with grey trim, while a tricolour livery is also available as part of the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalisation Programme. The new car also sports a special plaque on its rear grille commemorating Ferrari's 16th Constructor's World title. The exclusivity of the interior is underscored by the silver "limited series" plaque just above the air vents at the centre of the dashboard. Other exclusive features include a roll-bar with carbon-fibre outer shell and a specific new generation audio system that can be combined with the removable customised Ferrari iPod Touch 16 GB with central dock just in front of the dashboard. From a technical point of view, this car has a dry weight of 1340 Kg (80 kg lighter than the F430 Spider). This, combined with the 510 hp provided by its V8 engine and a power-to-weight ratio of 2.6 kg/hp, means that it delivers blistering 0-100 kph acceleration in just 3.7 seconds and a superb top speed of 315 kph. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia Novitec Rosso Edizione 747

NEWS & REVIEWS It takes its name from its rated power output of 747 horsepower: To mark the farewell of the Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Novitec Rosso presents the Edizione 747. The world’s leading tuner of the super cars from Maranello turns the lightweight model into one of the most powerful super sports cars of our time. And with its matte yellow and grey paintjob it is also one of the most spectacular-looking cars of our time. At the heart of this special model lies the new Novitec Rosso 747 twin-supercharged engine that boosts power output of the V-8 that normally produces 510 hp. Driving performance improves accordingly: With a sprint time for 0–62 mph of less than 3.4 seconds and just 22.9 seconds to 186 mph the Novitec Rosso model is the most powerful and quickest Scuderia in the world. Just as impressive is the top speed of 218 mph. The Novitec Rosso specialists have developed a new evolutionary stage of the Novitec Rosso twin-supercharged version of the four-valve eight-cylinder engine to commemorate the end of the production run of the Ferrari 430 model series. The Edizione 747 specification is the ultimate high-end version and is limited exclusively to the Berlinetta model of the Ferrari 430 Scuderia. The layout of the engine conversion corresponds to all Novitec Rosso twin-supercharged conversions for the mid-engine sports car. Each cylinder bank is fitted with an intercooler and a cogged-belt-driven high-performance supercharger with a maximum boost pressure increased for this version to 8 psi. The Novitec Rosso engine management system perfectly synchs all high performance components and also increases redline speed by 200 rpm. To guarantee perfect durability even under high ambient temperatures the conversion also includes more effective radiators for water and oil. The result of this labor is a unique symbiosis of superior power and excellent running smoothness. With a rated power output of 747 hp at 8,500 rpm the Novitec Rosso Edizione 747 Bi-Compressor engine surpasses its naturally aspirated brethren by 237 hp. The increase in torque from standard 347 lb.-ft. to 544 lb.-ft. at 6,300 rpm represents an enormous plus in low-speed power. Driving performance is in an automotive class of its own: In addition the Novitec Rosso Edizione 747 is also the perfect eye catcher: The two-tone special matte yellow and grey paintjob emphasizes the sporty shape of the body and lends the Scuderia pedigreed racing looks. To complement these looks Novitec Rosso installs black taillights, side markers and reflectors. This color scheme continues on the Novitec Rosso tire/wheel combination custom-tailored for the Scuderia. The diameter of the wheels surpasses the production wheels by one inch. The three-piece 20-inch NF3 double-spoke wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Cup sport tires in sizes 245/30ZR-20 in front and 315/25ZR-20 in back. Another measure to achieve even more agile and direct handling is the installation of Novitec Rosso sport springs, which lower the ride height of the Ferrari by some 1.2 inches. To lend the Scuderia better suitability for everyday use despite the lowering Novitec Rosso offers an innovative hydraulic lift system for the front axle. At the push of a button in the cockpit the front is raised by 1.6 inches. After safely passing over the obstacle, another push of the button reverts the suspension to its original position. If the button is not pushed the front end reverts to its original position automatically once the car reaches a speed of 50 mph. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M by Novitec Rosso

NEWS & REVIEWS How can you make a Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M, built in a limited edition of just 499 vehicles, even more exciting and more exclusive? Easy, just take it to NOVITEC ROSSO, the world’s leading refiner of the sports cars from Maranello. There the open-top lightweight model is fitted with the NOVITEC ROSSO RACE Bi-Compressor engine with 696 hp. It propels the Ferrari to a new top speed of more than 205 mph. Numerous uncompromising sporty options such as 20-inch wheels, sport springs, a lift system for the front axle and exterior and interior accessories round out the product lineup. The 4.3-liter V8 is supercharged by two cogged-belt-driven high-performance compressors with a maximum boost pressure of 7 psi. Each cylinder bank is fitted with a generously dimensioned water-to-air intercooler. The extensive NOVITEC ROSSO RACE Bi-Compressor conversion, available for $66,000 for this and all other F430 Spider models, offers unique performance. With a power output of 696 hp at 8,400 rpm the NOVITEC ROSSO conversion surpasses the production engine by 186 hp. Peak torque grows from standard 347 lbs.-ft. to 503 lbs.-ft.at 6,300 rpm. Driving performance improves just as impressively: The tuned Scuderia Spider 16M sprints from rest to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and reaches 124 mph after just 9.7 seconds. The 186 mph barrier is shattered after just 23.8 seconds. Top speed for the open-top mid-engine sports car increases from 196 to more than 205 mph. For further optimized handling of the lightweight sports car NOVITEC ROSSO offers an update from the standard 19-inch tires to three-piece 20-inch wheels. The custom-tailored high-performance tires in size 235/30ZR-20 in front and in size 325/25ZR-20 on the rear axle are provided by technology partner PIRELLI. NOVITEC ROSSO sport springs lower the center of gravity and further improve agile handling. For added daily utility of the Scuderia Spider 16M NOVITEC ROSSO offers a hydraulic lift system for the front axle. At the push of a button the front is raised by 1.6 inches and makes navigating obstacles such as curbs, speed bumps and garage entries easier. The front axle reverts to normal position at a second push of the button or automatically once the car reaches a speed of 50 mph. To give the Spider exterior an even more striking appearance NOVITEC ROSSO offers blacks taillights, side markers, and reflectors. The lightweight-construction interior can be refined with exclusive NOVITEC ROSSO options as well. The ergonomically shaped leather/carbon-fiber NOVITEC ROSSO sport steering wheel features a flattened lower rim for easier entering and exiting. The NOVITEC ROSSO carbon-fiber shift paddles are longer than their production counterparts and make manual gearshifts of the F1-SuperFast2 transmission even easier. Special interior color requests can be fulfilled by NOVITEC ROSSO in any imaginable color combination. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia

NEWS & REVIEWS The upcoming Ferrari California is going to be a landmark car. No doubt about it. Ferrari’s first front-engined V8, first double-clutch ’box, first fold-into-the-trunk hardtop. But the big question is: will it be as good as the F430? Now three years old, this mid-engined projectile still sets the benchmark as the world’s most usable supercar. Yes, Porsche’s 911 Turbo comes close, but it’s not this pretty. Aston Martin’s DB9 is pretty but nothing like this thrilling to drive. And a thrill to drive it is, courtesy of its screaming 490 hp flat-plane crank V-8, its steering wheel mounted manettino switch that fine tunes the car’s traction control set-up, adjustable suspension, and brakes that could stop time. And if the F430 twins—the Coupe F1 or Spider—aren’t hard edged enough for you, there’s always the slimmed-down and stripped-out 503 hp F430 Scuderia to charge your adrenaline. Just saying its name will make your palms hot and sweaty. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430

NEWS & REVIEWS The upcoming Ferrari California is going to be a landmark car. No doubt about it. Ferrari’s first front-engined V8, first double-clutch ’box, first fold-into-the-trunk hardtop. But the big question is: will it be as good as the F430? Now three years old, this mid-engined projectile still sets the benchmark as the world’s most usable supercar. Yes, Porsche’s 911 Turbo comes close, but it’s not this pretty. Aston Martin’s DB9 is pretty but nothing like this thrilling to drive. And a thrill to drive it is, courtesy of its screaming 490 hp flat-plane crank V-8, its steering wheel mounted manettino switch that fine tunes the car’s traction control set-up, adjustable suspension, and brakes that could stop time. And if the F430 twins—the Coupe F1 or Spider—aren’t hard edged enough for you, there’s always the slimmed-down and stripped-out 503 hp F430 Scuderia to charge your adrenaline. Just saying its name will make your palms hot and sweaty. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari F430 "CALAVERA" by Unique Sportcars & Novitec Rosso

NEWS & REVIEWS Using 11 months of design and development, the Bavarian design house “Unique Sportcars“ has completed its first design concept: A Super Sports Car for the streets. Limiting the series to the number of 11, the unique “Calavera“ design is based on the Ferrari F430, collaborating exclusively with Ferrari-specialist Novitec Rosso and Airbrush Artist Knud Tiroch. All involved create an inspiring team. For over 20 years, Novitec is well-known on the tuning scene. In the early 90s, Novitec received attention and recognition for its Turbocharged and Supercharged motors for Alfa Romeo. In 2003, the first Novitec Rosso twin-supercharger engine for Ferrari debuted, making a statement to professionals worldwide. Unique Sportcars develops exclusive designs for customers wanting more than off-the-shelf. Custom-tailoring individual ideas and customer`s wishes, we are on the look-out for partners to make these come to life. Idea, Concept and Implementation, all from one source! A real eye-catcher is the illuminated engine compartment. This non-standard gimmick puts the “Calavera“ in the spotlight, setting the tone for the brute rear and 707-hp engine. The finishing touch is given through its interior. The “Calavera“ design continues. Embroidered seats and a modified, extended middle console, leaving room for conventional functions and extensions like the new generation Apple iPod. The whole procedure of tuning includes completely dismantling the vehicle`s frame. The modifications of engine, aerodynamics, rims, tires, and sports exhaust system are done by Novitec. All custom work is completed within about 3 months. 707 hp, 0–62 mph in 3.5 seconds, a top speed of 216 mph, and extremely sporty interior appointments. At the heart of the CALAVERA lies the NOVITEC ROSSO twin-supercharger engine in its latest evolutionary stage. Up to now, the eight-cylinder, four-valve engine with a displacement of 4.3 liters and mechanical NOVITEC ROSSO twin superchargers. The sprint from rest to 62 mph is shortened by half a second to 3.5 seconds. After just 10.5 seconds the car reaches 124 mph. The 186 mph barrier is shattered after 29.9 seconds. In combination with longer gear ratios available upon request the top speed grows from 195 mph to 216 mph. 20-inch wheels instead of the standard 19-inch wheels: The three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 double-spoke wheels fill out the F430 wheel houses perfectly. High-performance tires in sizes 235/30ZR-20 and 325/25ZR-20 come from technology partner PIRELLI. Like all other body components the NOVITEC ROSSO front spoiler was developed in the wind tunnel. It is attached to the underside of the production front apron. It lends the F430 an even more aggressive frontal appearance and reduces lift on the front axle Agile, safe handling is one of the strengths of the NOVITEC ROSSO sport suspension for the Ferrari, optimized everyday use the other. Contrary to the production suspension the front can be raised by 40 millimeters at the push of a button to safely navigate past curbs, driveway entries and speed bumps. Once the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h the suspension automatically lowers itself back to normal position, about 35 millimeters lower than the production car. NOVITEC ROSSO sport stabilizers reduce body roll and provide even more direct turn-in. To be able to safely control this enormous performance potential at all times NOVITEC ROSSO also modifies aerodynamics, tires, suspension and brakes. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ferrari ENZO edo XX Evolution

NEWS & REVIEWS The Ferrari Enzo with its 660 hp is arguably one of the most exclusive cars in the world, both in terms of its driving dynamics and purchase price. Those looking for something considerably faster and more exclusive choose the edo Enzo XX Evolution. A bump in displacement from 6.0 to 6.3 liters, new camshafts, new titanium valve-spring retainers, and connecting rods, modified cylinder heads, new high-performance exhaust headers, high-flow catalytic converters, mufflers and air filters: that’s the scope of edo competition’s engine modifications. The standard hydraulic tappets are replaced with newly developed solid tappets, enabling the 12-cylinder engine to rev to an incredible 9,600 rpm. This is unmatched by any other 12-cylinder engine at this time! Additionally the intake system of the V-12 was modified, a new high-performance clutch and a more powerful oil pump were installed. The power output is increased by 180 to 840 hp. Without mufflers more than 860 horsepower is possible. The maximum torque of 575 lb-ft is available at 5,800 rpm. While the power output is increased, the Enzo’s weight is decreased by a respectable 220 lb. The result in numerical terms is that the edo Enzo XX Evolution accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds, 124 mph in 9.0 seconds and 186 mph in just 19 seconds. The top speed exceeds 242 mph. The acoustical side of things is obviously not being neglected. A stainless steel muffler featuring remote-controlled butterfly valves is available on request. This setup lets the driver switch the high-performance exhaust between two different sound levels. Astonishing transmission shift times: While the production Enzo takes 110 milliseconds, the edo Enzo XX Evolution shift times were reduced to an incredible 60 milliseconds! For comparison, an F1 car shifts in 40 milliseconds. The edo/KW race suspension from the FIA GT series was retuned for the Enzo XX Evolution, promising ultimate driving dynamics. The nose lift functionality is retained. The low-friction 3-way adjustable shock absorbers can be adjusted to the individual tastes of the driver and provide excellent steering precision and feedback. The edo installed tire pressure monitoring system displays the pressures for each of the four wheels. Providing ample grip for the edo Enzo XX Evolution are 19 inch front wheels and 20 inch rear wheels with 335 mm wide tires. The drive shafts were replaced due to the higher propulsive forces acting on them. The new units are 8.8 lb. lighter and considerably more robust in order to cope with the enormous power increase. The aerodynamics package is absolutely unique. It includes a complete exhaust system with tips machined from billet aluminum, now relocated to the top of the body. The tips are plasma-coated using a special process. The newly developed rear skirt featuring winglets and a rear wing profile, adjustable in 3 steps, improves the ground effect and can be tuned to the tastes of the driver. The new retractable rear wing is upgraded with a taller flap resulting in increased downforce and stability, especially at high speeds. New LED tail lights round off the rear view of the car. A test day with an instructor, mechanics, data logging, transport and hospitality is included in the conversion package. All modifications are carried out exclusively at edo competition Motorsport GmbH in Ahlen. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge