🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ferrari

Model:

Challenge Stradale

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

F131

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Track-focused road car, a more extreme version of the 360 Modena

Competitors:

Porsche 911 GT3 (996), Lamborghini Gallardo (early models), McLaren SLR McLaren (though in a higher price bracket)

Performance Enhancements:

Carbon ceramic brakes, titanium exhaust, revised aerodynamics, F1-derived gearbox

Track Orientation:

Stiffer suspension, racing seats, roll bar integration

Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a visceral driving experience and track capability

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Owner's Manual

Estimated Page Count:

250-300

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

V8 Engine operation, basic troubleshooting

Transmission:

F1 Gearbox operation and maintenance

Brakes:

Brake system operation and fluid checks

Electrical:

Basic electrical system features and controls

Bodywork And Interior:

Interior controls, comfort features, exterior care

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, ABS, Traction Control operation

Instrumentation:

Dashboard indicators, warning lights, and their meaning

Basic Maintenance:

Fluid level checks, tire pressure, light bulb replacement

Operation:

Startup procedures, driving modes, F1 gearbox usage

Emergency Procedures:

Jacking points, towing information, basic emergency responses

Depth:

Owner-level understanding of vehicle functions and basic care

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability:

High-resolution scans for clear text and images

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

3.6 Liters (3586 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

85 mm x 79 mm

Engine Code:

F131 B000

Horsepower:

430 hp (321 kW) @ 8500 rpm

Torque:

383 Nm (282 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm

Redline:

8600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.3.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)

Compression Ratio:

11.8:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Automated Manual (F1 Gearbox)

Availability:

N/A (F1 Gearbox was standard)

Clutch:

Single-plate dry clutch

Gear Selection:

Steering wheel mounted paddle shifters

Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) - Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., Tutela GI/E)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4481 mm (176.4 in)

Width:

1958 mm (77.1 in)

Height:

1190 mm (46.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

1450 kg (3197 lbs)

Weight Distribution:

48% Front / 52% Rear (approximate)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not officially rated by common agencies due to low production volume and niche market

Traction Control:

ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)

Electronic Stability:

Yes (integrated with ASR)

Anti Lock Brakes:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Chassis Structure:

Aluminum spaceframe chassis with composite body panels

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard CD player, optional premium audio systems available

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control

Launch Control:

Integrated with F1 gearbox for optimal standing starts

F1 Gearbox Modes:

Sport, Normal, Snow modes for varying performance and traction

Connectivity Features:

Basic, no integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration typical of modern vehicles

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Annual or every 10,000 km (6,200 miles), whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation)

Major Service:

Every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,400 miles) for belt replacement and more comprehensive checks

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (API SJ/CF or higher) - Consult manual for specific Ferrari-approved oils

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (Ferrari recommends specific coolant)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (low viscosity) - High-performance racing brake fluid recommended for track use

Common Problems:

F1 gearbox pump issues, sticky interior plastics, potential exhaust manifold cracks, clutch wear (dependent on driving style)

Maintenance Tips:

Regular F1 hydraulic system fluid level checks, careful clutch engagement to prolong life, ensure proper cooling system maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Ferrari's long-standing history in motorsport and GT racing

Predecessor:

Ferrari 360 Modena / Challenge Stradale (as a variant of 360)

Successor:

Ferrari F430

Production Years:

2003-2004

Production Numbers:

Approximately 1,288 units

Manufacturing Location:

Maranello, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the Challenge Stradale model are rare, it was widely praised by automotive journalists for its track capability and visceral driving experience, often noted as a significant driver's car of its era.