2011 Ferrari 458 Challenge - Top Speed

Today, Ferrari officially unveiled the 458 Challenge racing prototype that will compete in the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli in the 2011 season. The model is based on the 458 Italia, but introduces a number of important modifications to adapt it for competition use. The V8 engine has remained the same, but important modifications have been made to the gear ratios and calibration of its dual-clutch F1 gearbox to guarantee higher torque at lower revs. Ferrari’s main focus was to reduce the car’s weight. To do that the company used lightweight materials, such as carbon-fiber and Lexan for both exterior and interior. The new 458 Challenge also has a specific suspension set-up with solid aluminum bushings, stiffer springs, single-rate dampers, center-nut 19“ racing rims, larger dimension Pirelli slicks and a ride height lowered by 30mm all round. The 458 Challenge also gets a new F1-Trac traction control system that constantly monitors levels of grip for maximum high-performanc