Ferrari confirms end of F430
Last of the line to be auctioned for charityWhile Australia is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating bushfires earlier this year, Italy has had to recover from its own trouble. Earthquakes in April destroyed large parts of the country's Abruzzo region and now Italy's most famous car company, Ferrari, is doing its part to help.
The Prancing Horse has announced plans to auction a special edition F430 later this year with the proceeds going to earthquake clean-up and rebuilding programs. The auction will be held as part of this weekend’s RM Auctions in Maranello. The owner will received a signed certificate from Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo and a personalised dedication plate to commemorate the donation.
The V8-powered coupe will be painted silver with a gold strip running down its centre in honour of the traditional colours of one of the hardest hit cities, Aquila. But the owner will be able to personalise the interior and choose from the company's options catalogue.
But it isn't just any old F430 it will be the last one produced after five years of service. The news confirms Ferrari's plans to introduce its replacement next year. Tentatively known as the F450 the long rumoured and occasionally spied two-door is highly anticipated.
The new name is tied to the expectation the new V8 engine will displace 4.5-litres and feature the same direct injection technology seen on the California model released last year. Power is tipped to be in the region of 370kW with a rev limit touching 10,000rpm. The seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox from the California is also expected to find its way to the mid-engined F450.
Unlike the F430 that evolved from the previous F360 the new model will be built on a brand new platform. The all aluminium structure is anticipated to be shorter and lighter and is part of the company's plans to shave weight in search of more performance and lower fuel consumption.
An official unveiling is expected later this year, most likely at September's Frankfurt Motor Show, before deliveries start early in 2010.
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