CarZi

5 Years after Ferrari unveiled their F430 challenge production model at the 2005 LA Auto Show, Ferrari throws down (just in time for Xmas) with the introduction of the Ferrari 458 challenge (based off the Ferrari 458 Italia)

Like all challenge cars, the engine remains untouched (V8 with 570hp), but performance upgrades include the vehicles F1 gearbox gearing and significant weight loss via carbon fiber and plastic modifications. Also a 1st for Ferrari track-only challenge cars is the use of an E-Diff electronic differential already employed on the road-going version.

It also has a hardcore race tuned suspension setup, stiffer springs lowered by 50mm, single-rate alloy dampers, centre-nut 19-inch forged wheels, Pirelli slicks, new-generation Brembo CCM2 brakes integrated with the latest ABS system, which debuted on the Ferrari 599XX.

Another first for a Ferrari Challenge model is the adoption of the F1-Trac traction control system, the most sophisticated of its kind, says Ferrari. Developed in-house by the automaker, the F1-Trac system constantly monitors levels of grip for maximum high-performance road holding.

Although the Ferrari 458 challenge was originally presented at the Ferrari Annual Dealer Meeting in July 2010, the Bologna Motor Show world debut marks it’s official production arrival. Ferrari claims that the 458 challenge is 2 seconds faster than the Ferrari 430 Challenge at the Fiorano test track and only 0.2 seconds slower than their military grade Enzo Ferrari, the Ferrari FXX Evoluzione. I am really hoping to catch the 458 challenge

6 dates across North America in 2011 will host these races: Infineon Raceway April 28-May 1, Laguna Seca May 20-22, Canadian F1 Grand Prix in Montreal June 10-12, Toronto IndyCar July 8-10, Lime Rock Park July 29-30 and Homestead Miami September 23-25.

Ferrari’s Corse Clienti department will also be bringing the 599XX, FXX and F1 Clienti programs alongside the Ferrari Challenge action to the Infineon and Laguna Seca events. So I guess that settles it, CarZi will be heading to Laguna Seca in 2011!! Awesome

Checkout the front brake calipers glowing at the 3:00 minute mark in the video below followed by some lightning fast down shifting thanks to that F1 Transmission!! Crazy!

Ferrari 458 Photo Galleries

2008 Ferrari FXX Evoluzione Photo Galleries

[Source: AutoBlog.com, Wikipedia.com, NationalPost.com, MadWhips.com]