Ferrari 458 Challenge 2011 - World Of Classic Cars -

Ferrari 458 Challenge 2011

Starting with the 348 in 1993, the Ferrari Challenge series was established as a single-make series that utilised a racing version of Ferrari’s production mid-engined V-8 road car. Ferrari believed that by introducing their road-car clients to the track by way of an already familiar V-8 platform, they would increase their customers’ devotion to the Ferrari brand after seeing the full capabilities of their cars in a closed environment. The series quickly proved to be a success, and many customers were vying to compete it with the support of their local dealership.
The 458 Challenge was the fifth car to be entered in the Challenge Series, and it is, by far, the most technologically advanced one. Whilst the engine produces the same output as the normal street-legal 458 Italia, engineers modified the gear ratios and calibration of the dual-clutch gearbox to allow for greater torque lower in the engine’s rev range. Lots of emphasis was also placed on reducing weight by fitting thinner body panels and utilising carbon-fibre components wherever possible, as well as fitting Lexan windows. It was also graced with updated CCM2 carbon-fibre brakes from Brembo, which were coupled with an ABS system, the first to be seen on Ferrari’s 599XX. Another feature that differentiates it from its road-legal sibling is the Ferrari’s F1-Trac, which is a highly advanced traction-control system that continuously monitors grip to distribute the maximum amount of performance given the current track conditions.

Ferrari 458 Challenge 2011

This 2011 Ferrari 458 Challenge was campaigned by its first and only owner through Ferrari of France. The car, finished in Rosso Corsa, is fitted with the optional passenger seat to allow a guest to experience all that the Ferrari Challenge Series has to offer. It has recently been fitted with new front brake discs and pads, and it is ready to return to the track in all regards. Accompanying the car is an exhaust silencer, which is required for use on certain tracks, such as Spa Francorchamps, and two sets of Ferrari BBS centre-lock wheels, one set with dry-weather slicks with 260 kilometres of use and one new set of wet-weather tyres, in addition to the dry-weather slicks currently on the car.

Ferrari 458 Challenge 2011

As the 458 Challenge is still in use by Ferrari for the Challenge series, this car is eligible to jump right back into the fray. The Ferrari Challenge Series is now into its 21st season and has proved to be an excellent program for both track-day veterans and novices, as it provides an excellent way for owners to explore the limits of Ferrari’s newest products on a closed circuit.