On top of the fact it's a truly fantastic car, the reasons for featuring a 360 Challenge Stradale as a Spotted are twofold. With the emergence of a
£60K 996 GT3
last week an investigation into similar stuff seemed appropriate and, with
the California T
previewing a new era of turbo Ferraris, we wanted to whittle on about a stunning normally aspirated V8 for a while.
Stealthy, relatively speaking, until you fire it up
So then, what does a 360CS cost 10 years on from launch at £133,025? Well this car's £109,995 asking price appears right in line with our
360M buying guide
that stated '£100,000 or more for the very best Challenge Stradales' was about right. Indeed, the miles are low, the service history is impeccable and, to these eyes, it actually looks better without the stripe. Kind of suits the minimalist vibe.
All seems in order until you realise this particular Stradale is LHD. Further investigation reveals UK cars are up beyond £150K as the earliest 360 Modenas languish below £40K. The £169,995 being asked for The Supercar Rooms' CS is in fact more than any 430 Scuderia currently in the PH Classifieds (they peak at £149,995). Heck, there are quite a few 458s comfortably below that.
The Stradale is in demand then. Poring over 4 Star's example, it's not difficult to see why. Yes, the front of a 360 remains rather nondescript but the Challenge wheels, black rear panel and diffuser vastly improve the overall appearance. The naked carbon, unadorned wheel and Alcantara of the interior set the tone perfectly.
Sit here, savour the noise and the c. £50K saving
110kg lighter than the standard 360 and 25hp more powerful, every contemporary test of the Stradale raved about it. The response, the feedback, the step up in performance and the noise. Ah yes, the noise. Many an hour could be wasted browsing Youtube for clips of that howling V8, singing out to 8,500rpm and making 120hp per litre in the process. We've saved you the task (it was an arduous process, really) and found
this track video
for your aural pleasure. Surprised it passed the noise test to be honest...
In fact, the Challenge Stradale's extreme track focus arguably makes LHD less of an issue. Assuming you can get on a track day with that V8 din screaming out the back, the steering wheel's position isn't that important on a circuit. You get accustomed to it on the road also, and surely this just offers up more excuses for European road trips? Don't forget the £50K saving too.
The Stradale is a truly special car, even by Ferrari's standards. It will be interesting to see what the arrival of the 458 Speciale (with another 180hp!) will do the values of the 360. Surely they can't go any higher?
FERRARI 360 CHALLENGE STRADALE
Engine: 3,598cc V8
Transmission: Six-speed F1 automated manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 425@8,500rpm
Torque (lb ft): 275@4,750rpm
MPG: 15.7 (standard 360M)
CO2: N/A
Year registered: 2004
Recorded miles: 14,593
Price new: £133,025 (UK)
Yours for: £109,995