STYLE

The F430's shape, created by Pininfarina (in collaboration with Ferrari's Head of Design, Frank Stephenson), is inspired by the car's exceptional engineering.

Each and every styling cue highlights the aggression and performance of a thoroughbred Ferrari yet respects the functional demands of this kind of car. In design terms, little has been carried over from the outgoing 360 Modena with the result that the new berlinetta has an even stronger personality and more muscular stance.

The F430's nose is characterised by two distinctive air intakes that channel air into generously dimensioned radiators to cool the engine. Their shape draws inspiration from the Ferrari 156 F1 that Phil Hill drove to his F1 World Championship title in 1961. The two intakes are linked at their lower edge by a spoiler that directs the air towards the car's flat underbody.

The F430's vertically stacked headlights are extremely compact thanks to the use of Bi-xenon technology. When the lights are on, the unique shape of the sidelight, which is incorporated into the outer edge of the headlight, emphasises the profile, making the car immediately recognisable even at night. Large air vents just ahead of the front wheels channel the air out of the radiators and along the car's flanks.

Generous scoops at the top of the rear wheelarches channel air into the engine. The side view is completed by the new 19" wheels with the 5 twin-spoke layout that combine classic Ferrari design flair with exceptional levels of structural rigidity combined with light weight.

The Enzo Ferrari was the inspiration for much of the rear styling of the new F430. The type and arrangement of the lights are the same with the latter protruding quite prominently from the bodywork. Another similarity is the shape of the air vent for the engine with the chrome Prancing Horse at its centre. Ferrari's meticulous aerodynamic detailing is also reflected in the design of the new rear diffuser integrated into the bumper.

The F430's extreme performance capabilities are further underlined by such styling details as the new exhausts with stainless steel ball-polished exhaust tailpipes.

The wing mirrors now have specially profiled twin mounting arms that channel air to the engine intakes. The F430 name has also been embossed on the back of the driver's side mirror. Even the finish of the engine bay is a work of art in terms of its distinctive shape and materials.

The F430's interior is another area that has been totally re-worked to give it a more sporting ambience. Instrument binnacle, dash, a slimmer central tunnel, new seats and trim are all areas subjected to in-depth studies to improve ergonomics and practicality while underlining the exquisite and unique sensation of being aboard a Ferrari.