Ferrari Challenge Stradle Weight Reduction

Weight reduction was a primary goal of the Challenge Stradale project, achieving a reduction of 243 lbs from the 360 Modena. As with the 360 Modena, the Challenge Stradale's body components and space frame are made from a combination of aluminum castings, extrusions and sheets. It is the first Ferrari V8 car to employ, as standard, carbon fiber technology on structural parts such as door panels, racing seat shells and filter-box covers, and for both interior and exterior trim.

Titanium, already used for the connecting rods, was also adopted for Stradale suspension parts including wheel bolts and coil springs. Titanium has provided a significant reduction in unsprung weight. Luxury features are not elemental to the Stradale's nature, and many impose a weight penalty on production and racing cars. The Challenge Stradale eliminates any 360 Modena feature that does not directly relate to improved dynamic performance or would be out of place on the track, allowing for a further reduction in weight without impacting safety engineering or driving enjoyment.

The Challenge Stradale enjoys weight reductions of over 24lbs (4%) to the Engine and gearbox, 11lbs (3%) to unsprung weight and 207lbs (12%) to the body. Reducing a car's weight reduces its inertia. Along with increased peak power from the Ferrari V8 engine, this translates to acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.2 seconds.