2007 Ferrari F430 Challenge
VIN ZFFEX63X000152244
Rosso Corso with Red and Black Interior

Introduced in 2004 at the Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari F430 was heralded as one of the most advanced Ferrari road cars in the history of the company. The newly derived V8 engine was compact, reliable, and capable of delivering nearly 500hp, all of which was attributed to performance derived from Formula 1 development. The Pininfarina design, led by Frank Stephenson, enhanced downforce through the use of advanced aerodynamic testing. Visually the new design displayed very unique taillight treatment and twin front ovoid air intakes, reminiscent of the vintage Ferrari shark noses of racing past.

In keeping with the “Challenge” series first developed in 1993, the single-marque series became immediately popular with customers seeking a refined factory racecar that could be more easily enjoyed at moderate costs. Revealed in 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 430 Challenge was similar to the road version but featured a weight saving, pared down interior. The heavy leather seats were replaced with ultra-lightweight FIA approved Alcantara trimmed carbon fiber racing seats, and a removable Alcantara rimmed steering wheel was installed. Further improvements included carbon fiber inner door panels, a full roll cage, six point racing harnesses, Lexan front, side and rear windows, carbon fiber engine intake, fuel cells, and a lighter exhaust system, all of which contributed to a 2,700 lb curb weight, a weight savings of over 250 lbs. when compared to the road version.

The 4.3 liter 483 bhp V8 engine benefited from improved factory calibrations, an F1 derived six-speed sequential manual gearbox with modified ratios, mechanical differential, and no stability or traction control. Ferrari Challenge cars were fitted with single central nut BBS wheels mounted over highly capable Brembo CCM ventilated disc brakes. Independent double wishbone suspension with coil-over dampers completed the package. Constructed for only 3 years, just 142 F430 Challenge cars were built during the production period 2007-2010. It is estimated that fewer than half of the known production has been lost to racing damage, making the 430 Challenge series cars all the more rare and desirable today.

This particular example was sold new through Ferrari Beverly Hills and subsequently campaigned through the dealership’s racing team, Scuderia Corsa in the Challenge series from 2007-2009. The car was upgraded with a “GT Cup” specification carbon fiber front splitter and rear wing, both of which improve aerodynamic stability without adding significant weight. The Alcantara dashboard was reportedly reupholstered during recent previous ownership, oil and brake fluid were changed, and new tires were installed.

After more than a decade in competition, the Ferrari 430 Challenge still presents as a wonderful, cost-effective candidate for open track day experiences, or the Masters Historic Racing events (LINK), among many other venues. Masters events are becoming more and more popular around the globe, sharing premier venues with Formula One in Europe and at Circuit of the Americas, as well as at the Daytona 24 Hour Classic and Monterey Historic Reunion at Laguna Seca. Cars such as this F430 Challenge Ferrari offer gentlemen drivers an opportunity to easily compete with some of the most historically significant Sports and Prototype automobiles in the world, in part due to their remarkable acceleration and robust handling. The 430 Challenge is not only a rugged performance car with highly manageable suspension and superlative braking, it is one of the few F Series cars that does not require engine-out major service. Having been designed with timing chains instead of belts, engine durability and long-term maintenance costs are generally lower than other F series Challenge cars. Additionally, the 430 Challenge can be easily set up for racing at a range of venues, requiring only minor adjustments once dialed in.

Today this F430 presents in very good condition with appropriate racecar cosmetics reflective of typical use. The paint finish is quite nice throughout, showing excellent gloss and no significant cosmetic flaws. A few minor paint chips and light scratches are evident in various areas, and when viewed from underneath, minor track repairs to the bumper covers, typical of general use. The dramatic sloping Lexan windshield and Lexan rear window both show evidence of use with light marks and some hazing in a few areas. The lighting, and lenses are in good condition with no notable chips, but some minor marks on the headlight covers. All body panels display generally good fit throughout with very good door and engine lid fit, and minor gap variations in the front bumper cap fit, most notably on the driver’s side. The BBS central hub wheels are in excellent condition showing no curb rash, and shod with newer racing tires. The front spoiler is in generally good condition showing some forward edge chips while the rear carbon fiber wing appears free from any significant damage.

The interior of the car is in especially nice condition. The lightweight seats present sharply, and the material is supple and smooth with excellent surfacing and tight fitting to the carbon fiber backing. The dashboard material is in excellent condition, also appearing to have been recently redone. The main binnacle readout is functional and clearly readable. The removable Alcantara covered steering wheel, roll cage and padding, and inner carbon fiber door panels are all in generally good condition. Overall the car presents as an example of track-appropriate care, with no evidence of significant damage to the body or interior features, often found in cars with former competition history.

Under the hood, the innovative 430 V8 displays excellent castings, correct factory housings and original equipment. The condition of the engine compartment is generally very good, appearing clean and properly preserved. The underside of the car shows signs of track use with mild surface scratches to the aerodynamically trimmed pans and wear marks in the jacking recesses, but no visual evidence of structural compromise.

As one might expect sitting behind the wheel of this car getting ready for track time, is an adrenaline inducing experience. The engine erupts to a strong idle and revs freely. Remarkable acceleration with astonishing shift points and incredible traction combine to make a car of substantial capability, even in the hands of lesser experienced racecar drivers. While certainly a highly responsive car with juggernaut speed and legendary agility, once a few laps have passed, the car becomes a genuine delight, pushing you to test the next level of your driving skills.

A highly event eligible, factory-built racecar with extensively honed specifications based on years of F1 victories, the Ferrari 430 Challenge was developed with premier circuit performance in mind, handily achieving their goals. Presented with properly maintained racecar finishes and GT Cup exterior features, this Ferrari is a compelling and dynamic combination of remarkably easy-to-access race-bred performance and investment potential, ready to meet your next Challenge.

Please note that this car is specifically built for closed circuit competition, is not eligible for street use, and is sold on Bill of Sale.