F355 Challenge (Road version)

[_Cal_]

I wonder if anyone knows of any places on the net which gives an idiots guide to the difference beteween the standard GTB and the challenge version.

From the outside they appear to look no different, I know some have the large wing?!

Any comments greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Cal

[ajaym]

Cal,

All 355 challenge cars were designed to be used on the track so ones that you see on the road are converted for road use. On the outside after conversion they look exactly the same as the 355 berlinetta but are badged "F355 Challenge". They also have the challenge rear and front grilles(where the air intakes are). Engine-wise for road use they needed to have the correct valves put in to conform to noise levels. On the inside you will see a small raised carpet area by the side of each seat where the doors are- this is where the roll cage fixings would have been but have been carpeted over once the roll cage has been removed. The big tell tale sign of a challenge car though is the battery cut off switch where the gear lever is.

[jj_work]

I also believe that the suspension is different (in that the adjustable settings from soft to hard will have been removed) I think the cats will have been taken out, the battery is of a smaller gel type - not acid. The brakes use the same callipers all round (i.e front and back use the same pads)

I think (although can't be sure) the engine was upped a little to make 400bhp.

There are some pictures on my site www.f355challenge.co.uk (not uipdated for about 2 yrs) - although no technical specification, as I couldn't find any. If there is anything particular you want to know, mail me off line.
jj

[456mgt]

I test drove a road-converted F355GTB challenge car a week or two ago. Pretty much the only differences were as Ajay laid out- the cues are that it says 'F355challenge' on the back (maybe only worth a few quid as a decal, worth much much more in 'cool'), it has challenge grilles and the bloody great orange kill switch on the centre console (we like ). In all other regards it was identical to a conventional GTB.Additional monetary value, couple of hundred quid; value to the male psyche- priceless.

Kevin

[360]

Hi cal i curently mechanic on 355 challenge and 360 challenge cars in the marranello challenge if i can help at all let me know

[_Cal_]

Guys, thanks for the great info. You're a knowledgeable bunch! I’m having a look at one tomorrow, really looking forward to it! Please bear with me while I ask a whole load of questions! I’ve searched through the archives and captured as much info as I can on the car, it’s a real eye opener!

Regards,
Cal