Introduced in 2003, the 360 Challenge Stradale essentially created the template for today’s high performance variants of Ferrari’s mid-engined V8 cars. Nearly every aspect of the car was rethought in a focused, performance-oriented way to create a dramatically different experience.
Based on Ferrari’s first production model with aluminum chassis, the 360 CS drew its name from Ferrari Challenge, a one-make racing series created by Ferrari in 1993 to give their most sporting private owners the chance to race Ferraris against like-minded tifosi.
Like a proper performance special, the CS has substantially reduced weight, about 240 pounds worth, thanks to reduced sound proofing, no carpets, carbon fiber door panels and center console, a lexan rear windscreen, composite bumpers, lighter exhaust system, alcantara-trimmed carbon fiber seats (along with much of the rest of the interior), and carbon ceramic brakes from the Enzo. This is paired with a more powerful engine thanks to a higher compression ratio, revised intake manifold, ported cylinder heads, and larger air mass meter, and revised engine software, which raise the power by about 25 hp to 419 hp, giving the car an impressive specific output in excess of 115 hp per liter thanks in no small part to a screaming 8500 RPM redline. The gearbox was revised to provide 40% quicker shifts while the aerodynamics were revised to provide a remarkable 50% increase in downforce thanks to revised front bumper and side skirts, as well as a new rear diffuser. Finally, the suspension was upgraded with 20% stiffer springs which also lower the ride height slightly, as well as a larger rear sway bar to provide more front to rear balance.
Available exclusively with the two-pedal automated F1 transmission, the 360 CS has become collectible thanks to the low production volume, about 1300 examples (of about 18,000 360s built), thanks to the thrilling experience it provides.
This particular car has covered fewer than 11,000 miles and was converted to a 6-speed manual stick shift in 2023, using almost exclusively original Ferrari components. Prior to that, it was part of a large collection in the San Francisco Bay Area. It was sold new in Southern California and has spent most of its life in California, with excursions to Oregon and New Hampshire during the first nine years of its life. It has otherwise been in California. In 2024, the ECUs were reflashed (as part of the stick shift conversion) and the battery replaced and the car is now in superb cosmetic and driving condition, with the stick shift conversion transforming the already exceptional 360 Challenge Stradale into one of the most exceptional Ferrari driving experiences of the modern era.
