🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ferrari

Model:

Challenge Stradale

Year:

2004

Market:

USA

Model Generation:

First Generation

Chassis Code:

F131

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

A track-focused road car, a more extreme and track-capable version of the 360 Modena, designed to bridge the gap between road-legal sports cars and dedicated racing machines.

Competitors:

Porsche 911 GT3 (996 generation), Lamborghini Gallardo (early models), Aston Martin V8 Vantage (early models)

Distinguishing Features:

Aerodynamic enhancements (flat underbody, rear diffuser, carbon fiber wing), F1-style gearbox (F1A), lighter weight construction (carbon fiber elements, aluminum), stiffer suspension, improved braking system, specialized interior trim, track-oriented ergonomics.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

United States

Page Count:

Approximately 180-220

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Primary Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, Climate Control, Safety Systems, Infotainment, Controls and Instruments, Body and Chassis, Wheels and Tires

Operating Procedures:

Startup, Driving modes, Climate control operation, Infotainment system usage, Dashboard indicators and warnings, Interior and exterior controls, Fueling, Parking brake operation, Jacking and wheel changing

Maintenance Procedures:

Recommended maintenance schedule, Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), Tire pressure checks, Bulb replacement, Wiper blade replacement, Basic troubleshooting for common indicators

Depth:

Designed for the owner, providing essential information for operation, basic checks, and understanding of vehicle features and indicators. Does not cover in-depth repair or diagnostic procedures, which are reserved for service manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality glossy paper, full-color illustrations and diagrams

Binding Type:

Stapled or Perfect Bound

Paper Type:

Glossy, high-quality paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Engine Code:

F131

Displacement:

3.6 liters (3586 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

85 mm x 79 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.4:1

Horsepower:

430 hp @ 8500 rpm

Torque:

275 lb-ft (373 Nm) @ 4750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic ME7.3.2, Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

Coolant Type:

Ferrari specific coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based with anti-corrosion additives)

Engine Oil Type:

Fully Synthetic SAE 5W-40 (e.g., Shell Helix Ultra, Mobil 1)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed F1-style electro-hydraulic manual transmission (F1A)

Optional Transmission:

Not applicable, F1A was standard

Gear Selection:

Paddle shifters on steering wheel, automatic modes

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific Ferrari F1 transmission fluid (refer to manual for exact part number or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4485 mm (176.6 inches)

Width:

1940 mm (76.4 inches)

Height:

1210 mm (47.6 inches)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1450 kg (3197 lbs) - significantly lighter than 360 Modena

Dry Weight:

Approximately 1380 kg (3042 lbs)

Trunk Capacity:

Limited, typical for mid-engine sports cars (approx. 150 liters front trunk)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not typically subjected to standard governmental crash tests due to low production volume and specialized nature.

Traction Control:

ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) - adjustable modes

Stability Control:

Not explicitly named as ESC/ESP, but integrated into F1 transmission and ASR for vehicle control.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Chassis Construction:

Aluminum spaceframe with composite body panels

Front Brakes:

Vented discs with Brembo calipers (specific size from 360 Modena with potential upgrades)

Rear Brakes:

Vented discs with Brembo calipers (specific size from 360 Modena with potential upgrades)

Brake System:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Basic Alpine or Becker CD player with AM/FM radio.

Speakers:

Standard speaker system, no advanced audio packages typically offered.

Assistance Features:

ASR (traction control), ABS (anti-lock brakes), EBD (electronic brake force distribution).

Connectivity Options:

Limited to basic audio connectivity; no Bluetooth or USB typically provided in this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Major Service Interval:

Typically every 12,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first. Includes belt replacement (cam belts) every 3-5 years or specific mileage.

Oil Change Interval:

Every 12 months or 7,500 miles, whichever comes first, or as per manual recommendation based on usage.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 11.7 liters (12.4 US quarts) with filter

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 15.0 liters (15.9 US quarts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4, high-performance racing fluid recommended

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (specific Ferrari part number recommended)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear (due to F1 system and aggressive driving), suspension bushings, brake pad/rotor wear, wheel bearings.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many Italian supercars of this era, some minor electrical issues can occur, often related to sensor faults or connector corrosion. These are usually well-documented and repairable.

F1 System Maintenance:

Requires regular bleeding and calibration of the hydraulic system. Clutch actuator and pump require periodic inspection.

Filter Part Numbers:

Oil Filter: Mann-Filter HU 719/5x, Purolator L17524, or equivalent. Cabin Filter: Mann-Filter CU 21 000 or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Ferrari has a long-standing history of producing high-performance sports cars and race cars, with a lineage dating back to the 1940s. Known for motorsport success and iconic road cars.

Predecessor:

Based on the Ferrari 360 Modena, with extensive modifications for track use.

Successor:

The spirit of the Challenge Stradale influenced later models like the F430 Scuderia.

Production Years:

2003-2004

Production Volume:

Limited production, approximately 1,288 units worldwide.

Manufacturing Location:

Maranello, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific awards might be scarce for this niche model, it was lauded by automotive journalists for its exceptional performance, handling, and track capability, often earning high marks in performance comparisons.

Performance Ratings:

Consistently rated highly for its driving dynamics, acceleration (0-60 mph in under 4 seconds), and braking performance.

Production Standards:

Manufactured to Ferrari's exacting quality and performance standards.