The building of the Ferrari F430
This is a Revell kit, with inner engine-detail
Some background......" The successor to the Ferrari 360 Modena has been in production since autumn 2004. Although the new car from Maranello is obviously based on the 360 Modena, it has undergone some clear modifications to the bodywork. Only the chassis, the aluminium tubular space frame and ancillary equipment were taken over; the remaining components are completely new. Substantial alterations were also made to the aerodynamics. Thus the large front air intakes that transfer the air to the fully enclosed underbody are striking. The effect of the wind tun nel is also visible at the rear, which with its four projecting individual lights, echoes those of the Enzo Ferrari cars. The design for this 1450 kg super sports car, made of aluminium throughout, was created, as usual, by Pininfarina. The most important change is under the rear window. The new 4.3 litre VS-engine of this powerful dream car F430 was completely rede- veloped and develops a satisfying 490 bhp at 8500 rpm. The V8 displays its true qualities when driven. Its repertoire extends from relaxed cruising to a breathtaking sprint, including suitable sound shifts. This luxury sports car shoots from a standing start to 100 km /h in a mere 4 seconds. It has a top speed of more than 315 km/h. The car is also easy to control. The driving characteristics are determined by a rotary switch that selects programmes, giving a choice between 5 modes, which also include slippery roads. Safe driving is also made possible by an electronic differential designated the "E-Diff", based on Formula 1 technology, that distributes the tractive forces to the rear wheels, thus preventing wheel spin. That the F430, irrespective of the programme selected, remains securely on track, is down to precise steering and perfect balance, but it decelerates like a proper racing car. The six gears are changed via a rocker switch behind the steering wheel - more F1 technology. The interior is presented, as usual, in a most intelligible manner and extraordinary well finished. Ferrari has again demonstrated a near perfect feel for the correct balance between racing and luxury. This powerful dream sports car offers space and comfort without denying its sporty origins. Once again Ferrari has known how to combine comfort and safety with uni- que racing characteristics in a road car of this special class. "........
The back, and of course, the powerplant
With hinsight, i should have made the chromed parts, a little bit duller"
I am satisfied with the overall paint job
Front window-fitting; not perfect
The Powerplant
