2008 Ferrari 430 Challenge

Following the successes of the one-make race series of the Ferrari 348, 355 and 360, the Ferrari F430 Challenge was the fourth generation of Ferrari Challenge racing cars. While the standard F430 was manufactured from 2004 until 2009, the F430 Challenge wasn’t produced until 2007, with production stopping in 2010 ensuring enough time had been given to developing the car. According to its creators, the F430 was at least 70% new compared with the previous model.

Screaming high-revving engines are synonymous with Ferrari and their brand new 4.3-litre V8 engine was truly on brand. With four valves per cylinder, chain-driven camshafts, a variable valve-timing system (from the flagship Enzo's V12), dry-sump lubrication and a very high compression ratio, the F430 makes all the right noises, particularly when attached to a full-house competition exhaust.

Whilst the F430 and the F430 Challenge do have common ground, a lot was changed between the standard road car and the Challenge. Cosmetically, the Challenge looks like the black-sheep sibling to the road car. Featuring centre-lock BBS wheels wrapped in big slick tyres, enormous carbon ceramic brakes, significant aerodynamic upgrades and a shortened fifth and sixth gear and final drive ratio meaning the Challenge car reportedly tabled 0-62 in just 3.2 seconds. Whilst power stayed the same, the staggering performance on track was due to the ‘less is more’ approach to shedding weight. With no carpets, lightweight windows, no sound deadening, no stereo or passenger seat and with the addition of a roll cage and racing harnesses, the F430 Challenge really means business.

Offered here is a Ferrari 430 Challenge car that’s had a full rebuild by the renowned Sandown Motorsport Team. This was the car used by Wayne Marrs and driven to multiple race wins over the years and was still beating the Ferrari 458 right up to 2018. The extensive rebuild involved stripping the Ferrari back to the tub and all the mechanicals were gone through and replaced where needed. All the safety equipment is new including a new OMP fire system, Sabelt Titan seats and Sabelt harnesses. Four new/old stock wheels are fitted with new centre lock nuts. There are some additional subtle aero upgrades fitted. The cockpit was retrimmed in new Alcantara, the steering wheel was also retrimmed in suede, a Dimension 3D drinks system was fitted and a subtle custom touch is the Italian tricolour highlights to the paddle shifts.

Recently, the engine, gearbox and suspension have all been checked over together with brakes and the air jacks, making this beautiful, race-prepared 430 Challenge race or track day ready. It's currently eligible for a multitude of events including the GT Cup, Britcar Endurance Championship, and the AMOC Racing GT Challenge. It can also be silenced for track days use.

Past the depreciation stage and now beginning to appreciate, these terrific 430s are incredible value with an amazing presence on track.