The F430 Scuderia was unveiled by Michael Schumacher at the Frankfurt Motor show in July 2007 and was the most potent road-legal version of the 430 produced by the factory. A gap had been left since the 360 Challenge Stradale production ended in 2005, and this model filled the void by being lighter, more powerful, rawer and technologically more advanced than its standard sibling. Thanks to a high compression motor with re-mapped engine management and a sports exhaust, output was increased from 483 to 510bhp, this being developed at an unchanged 8500rpm. This increase in performance gave the Scuderia a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 197 mph. The F1 transmission also came in for some attention, Scuderia’s used Ferrari’s latest generation ‘Superfast’ software that reduced gearchange time to just 60 milliseconds. Other important developments were made including a new traction control system that combined the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system; E-Diff-2. Ride-height was dropped by 15mm, firmer springs and dampers were installed along with bigger carbon ceramic brake discs. The front calipers were uprated to 6-piston units. Visually the Scuderia received new 19-inch double spoke wheels as well as the introduction of a series of aero refinements that gave the Scuderia a more aggressive look. Restyled front intake grilles were larger and more angular and the rear of the car featured a carbon fibre diffuser with centrally exiting Challenge exhaust tips and new exhaust surround. A Challenge rear grille came as standard and carbon fibre was used for the wing mirrors, engine bay vents and strut supports.
In 2008 Ferrari launched the Spider version of the Scuderia. They decided to produce just 499 cars for the world market making them extremely rare and collectable limited edition cars. To commemorate Ferrari’s 2008 F1 constructors world championship win they decided to name the Spider the “16M” in honour of their 16th title.
