The Euro-Spec car has a Launch Control button, which lowers 0-100km time to 3.2 seconds from 3.7 seconds -- US cars do not have the button. However, it seems that the computer has it built in on all 599s, and the US version is simply lacking the button. There is a way around this, and a US car can activate Launch Control as follows: Put car in race mode (CST OFF) Put car in 1st gear Press brake with left foot Pull on left (downshift paddle) until you hear an audible beep Press accelerator (all the way down) Release brake and hold on for the ride of your life. This really works!!! Please post your feedback after you try it...
Does it say in the Euro manual about how many launches you can expect the clutch/transmission to last for? I'd imagine it'd atleast have some sort of recommendation of using it sparingly.
I believe you can do roughly 15. There was a thread about this last fall because I was so mad US spec cars didn't have launch control. At the time though I didn't realize it was clutch kryptonite. There is no point in using it really. It would be cool if it wasn't so hard on the car, but a hard launch doesnt really matter unless you are racing or at the drag strip. I can't imagine putting my baby through that pain so it got to sixty half a second faster.
thats pretty cool how did you find that out?i woulda thought the gerbox could take it, the car does cost one hell of alot and designed for it.
Launch Control is somthing wild, it is adictive and expensive, just like anything else that makes you scream! I have never done it in a 599, only in my own F430, I did it 6 times then it was time for a new clutch, Ferrari have a computer that tells you how much clutch you have left, on the last service I asked them for this number, it was around 33% worn, from then 6 times of HARD launches, and the clutch was done. Please please please do not do this with a full tank of petrol, I was told this was one of the reasons the clutch went bang so quickly, plus have all your windows/roof up and turn off the aircon, the clutch dust stinks, and can sting your eyes!
I did it once, and that was enough. Im waiting for my black / black 599 and am gonna sell my red one. I should have it in a month or so, then no more launch control!!! It was fun to see it work though - ive never felt like that in a car in my life!!!
