2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale?
This technologically superior Ferrari 360 takes the track-only 360 Challenge model to the next level with more horsepower, carbon-ceramic brakes, a Race mode for the F1-style gearbox, titanium suspension bits, carbon fiber structural and trim pieces, track-tuned electronic dampers, revised interior design, improved aerodynamics, and larger wheels and tires. A plaque dedicating Ferrari’s 50th year in North America is included in every 2004 Ferrari.

Advantages of the 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale:

• Horsepower boost over other Ferrari 360 models
• Carbon-ceramic braking system
• Race mode for F1-style gearbox
• Extended use of titanium and carbon fiber in construction of car
• Cool 'launch control' feature

Objections to the 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale:

• Suitable mainly for track use; brutal on city streets and clogged highways

Editor's Advice:
For 2004, Ferrari introduces the new 360 Challenge Stradale, the most technologically advanced 360 to date. Like the track-ready 360 Challenge, the 360 Challenge Stradale is stripped bare of non-essential equipment to keep weight down. You won’t find carpet or floor mats here, and in the standard version even leather upholstery and roll-down side windows are excised from the equipment list. What you will find is plenty of no-nonsense racing technology. For example, Carbon Composite Material (CCM) carbon-ceramic disc brakes with aluminum calipers originally designed for F1 use are employed on the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale to reduce both curb and unsprung weight. The discs measure 380mm in front and 350mm in back, resulting in braking performance that is 15 percent better than the standard 360 Modena. Power from the 3.6-liter V8 engine is bumped to 425 bhp but torque output remains the same. The firepower increase is due to an optimized compression ratio, revisions to the intake and exhaust systems, low-friction cylinder blocks and repositioned valve springs. The F1-Sport electrohydraulic gearbox from the Ferrari 360 Challenge includes a new Race setting. In Race mode with the Automatic Slip Regulation (ASR) disengaged, a ‘launch control’ feature ensures a quick start in good conditions. The 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale can accelerate to 60 mph in about four seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph. Unlike the 360 Challenge, the 360 Challenge Stradale retains the electronic dampers of the 360 Modena, revised for use on the track, and adds titanium springs to keep weight down. The Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires developed specifically for this car measure 225/35 in front and 285/35 in back, riding on new 19-inch BBS alloy wheels. Ferrari claims that tire grip can be adjusted to suit thermal conditions of the track for maximum adhesion, thanks to the innovative compound and tread characteristics. Visually, the 360 Challenge Stradale can be identified by its unique paint, modified front air dam, and reshaped side sills. Two versions are available: one with textile-covered racing seats and sliding side Lexan windows, the other with leather upholstery and manual roll-down Lexan windows. Either includes a centrally mounted tachometer, a new steering wheel with a lengthened right gearbox paddle for easier upshifting when exiting a corner, and extensive use of carbon fiber in design and construction. Options include four-point racing harnesses and an aluminum roll bar.