Overview & Reviews

There's always been much more to Ferraris than just phenomenal performance -- their styling, exclusivity and sheer presence all play a part in their allure. Since the 1970s, Ferrari's line of midengine V8-powered sports cars has provided the most "affordable" means of accessing this mystique, though some of these cars have been more successful than others. While most offered a level of performance that few cars could match, more recent years have ushered in new competition, which effectively addressed the Ferrari's weaknesses while improving upon its strengths. The famous sports-car maker from Maranello answered with the Ferrari F430 coupe and Spider convertible.

The car's basic shape was similar to its 360 Modena predecessor, but was edgier and adopted design cues from its Enzo supercar contemporary. Thanks to a lightweight space frame draped with aluminum body panels, the F430 weighed in at a lean 3,200 pounds. The heart of the F430's improvements, though, was found in its drivetrain. For all to see underneath a clear rear hatch was a redesigned 90-degree V8, accompanied by a newer version of the "F1" sequential-shift manual transmission. It shifted more smoothly in everyday driving situations while still allowing super-quick upshifts and perfect rev-matched downshifts at the pull of a paddle.

Given that the F430's price easily broke the $200,000 barrier, it was understandably difficult for many people to consider this Ferrari as an "entry-level" machine. Even for the well-heeled, the F430's cost may have seemed a little excessive considering that similar-era cars like the Corvette Z06 or the Porsche 911 Turbo offered similar (or better) performance for considerably less money. But there's no denying that the Ferrari F430 was an exceptional sports car by every measure. In terms of performance, it had but a handful of equals and even fewer superiors. It won't be mistaken for anything but a Ferrari, and will no doubt bring thoroughly satisfying ownership to the fortunate few able to afford one.

Used Ferrari F430 Models
The Ferrari F430 debuted for 2005 as a coupe or Spider convertible. Production lasted through 2009.

Despite its performance orientation, most modern conveniences came standard -- including keyless entry, auto-dimming mirrors, automatic dual-zone climate control and MP3-capable audio. The F430's standard 19-inch wheels wore different sizes of rubber front-to-rear for enhanced stickiness. The F430 could also be customized through a long list of options, including competition wheels, racing seats, carbon-fiber interior trim, fitted luggage, and special paint and leather colors.

The Ferrari F430 derived its power from a midmounted 4.3-liter V8 engine. Its 483 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque was sent to the rear wheels through either a traditional six-speed manual or Ferrari's electrohydraulic F1-style transmission controlled by paddle shifters. The F430 also had an electronically controlled "E-diff" rear differential that helped to improve acceleration and vehicle balance. At full gallop, the F430 hit 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds and topped out just shy of 200 mph. Reining all this in were antilock brakes and driver-adjustable traction and stability controls.

A higher-performing variant called the 430 Scuderia was also offered for 2008 and 2009. Numerous track-ready parts like carbon-fiber body panels and interior elements were added, while many other items deemed non-essential were eliminated. The Scuderia weighed a significant 450 pounds less than the normal F430 and power was increased to 503 hp.

In contrast to older Ferrari models, the F430's cockpit was relatively comfortable for drivers of all kinds. The Spider's top was fully automatic, and could be lowered in about 20 seconds. Its rear window was made of plastic, however, which detracted slightly from the car's premium status.

Regardless, the F430 is a true exotic offering maximum driving thrills. Rocketing up to cruising speed is a gut-wrenching affair, and the V8's substantial power creates a shrieking wail that might be considered offensive or melodic, depending on context. Passing slower traffic is absurdly easy, and its superbly engineered steering and suspension connects the driver to the road in a manner few other cars of its time can match.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 23.00

• 

  Incredible Car - 2006 Ferrari F430
  By PERRIE - June 14 - 10:30 pm

  I love my new F430 spider. It is an incredible improvement from my 2003 F360. Its much more luxurious, has a better ride, acceleration etc. The biggest difference is how smooth the shifting has become and the ride quality. It looks fantastic and has the best interior I have seen on a sports car. While I certainly wouldnt drive it everyday I find I am using it much more than the F360. I cant wait to take it out whenever I have time. My wifes biggest complaint is that everyone looks at the car. It is expensive but worth every penny.

• 

  Amazing Car - 2006 Ferrari F430
  By Jack - April 22 - 5:12 am

  The Ferrari F430 Challenge is the best car that I have ever driven and I have had them all. It is so smooth and light to drive! Wow! It is expensive, but well worth it!

• 

  2006 F430 - 2006 Ferrari F430
  By ferrarifan - February 14 - 7:43 am

  I am more than satisfied with the 2006 F430. Although I loved the Modena 360 I used to have, the F430 is much better than the 360 in many ways. It is far smoother and faster. Its design is more aggressive and modern, although one could argue that the 360 had more artistic lines. They are both beautiful, but different. The interior is covered with the finest leather you will see in any car with beautiful stitchings. Its instrumentation is functional and elegant. The HiFi version is terrific with clean sound and base. Its handling, speed, agility, and feel are second to none. It is one of the most beautiful cars ever created with its presence noticed on any road with admirers everywhere.

• 

  2005 Ferrari F430 - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By gonzalo moran - January 29 - 4:25 am

  The 2005 Ferrari F430 is an excellent performance vehicle, close to the supercars such as the Enzo or F50, but with lots of comfort, for a fraction of the price. The electronics are amazing, but a little fuzzy at first.

• 

  2006 F430 - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By Ferrari Admirer - January 20 - 8:48 am

  The 2006 F430 is a product of art and technology at their finest. It is by far one of the most beautiful automobiles ever made. The drive is sensational and incomparably satisfying. Compared to the Modena 360 I had, its looks are more modern and aggressive. Its interior is exquisitely detailed with soft leather and stitching with its feel and smell that only a Ferrari delivers and better than even an Louis Vuiton handbag. The F1 is much more smooth than a Modena 360. The handling is razor sharp, superior to the 360, a world apart from almost any other vehicle on the market. A true appreciation of a Ferrari can only come from actual ownership and prolonged driving experience.

• 

  Best Ferrari So Far! - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By ferraristi - December 28 - 11:23 am

  This is my third Ferrari I have owned. A Testarossa, Maranello 550 now this beautiful example of styling, performance and unbelievable driving experience. This is such a vast improvement over the 360 which I also tested. It has the ability to transform from an every day drive, to a full race performance all by simply switching the settings on your steering wheel. The performance is a given, but the exhaust sound alone takes you to the track and turns heads in amazement. The handling is superb. Highly recommend. Live your dream!! this is as close as you get to driving an F1.

• 

  F430 - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By ferrariman - December 26 - 6:50 am

  The F430 is an amazing car--more so than virtually any other car on the market. Its performance is spectacular. Its shape is more beautiful than any other car in the world. On the road, it commands a presence of mystique and prestige that only a Ferrari delivers. I had a 360 Modena before this model. The F430 is sharper and more modern in appearance. The shifting of F1 is more smooth, and the overall handling is far superior.

• 

  F430 - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By Benny - December 17 - 2:51 am

  This is car is one of the most beautiful cars ever created. Its design and workmanship can only be really appreciated after actually owning it. Its the symbol of legendary Italian artistry and passion. Its sound is sexier than any car on the road. The drive is awesome in every aspect. Its handling is unsurpassed. Its fantastic acceleration does not even need to be mentioned. The attention you get from others around you when drive the F430 is something you need to get used to if you dont like attention. After all, a ferrari is not a car: its a ferrari.

• 

  Cant go wrong with Ferrari - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By enzo - November 16 - 4:16 pm

  The F430 is a great drive around town car, as well as a take on the track car. I have always liked the Pinin Farina style design, which compliments its predecessors.

• 

  Are you kidding? - 2005 Ferrari F430
  By John - November 15 - 12:17 am

  Though this is our first Ferrari, we underestimated what we were actually buying. Our F430 is far and away a better vehicle than either the Lamborghini Gallardo or the Porsche Carrera GT that we were able to drive. Special thanks to dealers that let 30 something millionaires drive before we buy. You earned our business!