3/4/2004 - 3/14/2004 Geneva The 2004 Geneva Motor Show will be an exciting one for Ferrari with several unveilings. In addition to the European launch of the new all-aluminium 12-cylinder 2+2, Stand 1053 in Hall 1 will also be hosting the world previews of the new GTC Handling pack for the 575M Maranello and the new Challenge Stradale-inspired personalisation options for the 360 Modena and Spider. The GTC Handling pack for the 575M is also the first to offer carbon-ceramic brake discs, already adopted on the Enzo and the Challenge Stradale, for a front-engined Ferrari, and represents a further evolution in the strong personality of the Maranello. As is clear from its name, which refers to the transfer of the handling characteristics of the version used in the FIA-GT Championship to the road-going model, the GTC Handling option offers an even more thrilling driving experience, thanks to its new track-derived components. Apart from the effectiveness of the new brakes developed in collaboration with Brembo, this is a further development of the Fiorano handling package (special springs and anti-roll bars, lowered ride height, upgraded power steering), with additional advances in electronic suspension control. The new personalisation option also includes an exhaust system with an even deeper, characteristic rumble, newly designed exhausts, coloured brake callipers featuring the Brembo Carbon Ceramic logo, and modular 19" wheels fitted with special Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres (255/35 ZR 19 front and 305/30 ZR 19 rear). This combination of advanced new components offers drivers even headier performance from an already firm favourite with devotees of the Maranello 12-cylinders. With regard to the 360 Modena and Spider, Ferrari is also using the Geneva Show to unveil a new Racing exhaust and carbon kit (specifically on the 360 Spider), developed to offer customers yet another personalisation choice. Both components are derived from the Prancing Horses experience with the Challenge Stradale.
This is going to be interesting. I am not sure the Stradale exhaust will sound better than Tubi or Capisto on a 360. This much we can be certain of, unless the sport exhaust is ordered when ordering the new car, the cost for the race exhaust will be substantially higher than after market products.
if that's what all the fuss is about, i'm grossly underwhelmed. a tweaked FHP isn't a big deal. even if it's substantially tweaked. it won't sell a single additional unit, and unless they want to see new 575Ms languishing on the show floors at the end of the production cycle, like the poor 456s were, i hope there's more to it all than what this announcement outlines. LOWER than the FHP? egads - you won't be able to get out of your driveway! doody.
