2004 Ferrari Challenge Stradale vs. 2004 Porsche GT3 Ferrari Powertrain & Suspension

Ferrari's Challenge Stradale stems directly from its 360 Challenge spec racer, based, of course, on the 360 Modena coupe. Think of the CS as the Maximum-Strength Modena, with several components coming straight off the race car.

The CS's 3.6-liter V-8 gets a bump in compression, revised intake manifolding and exhaust system, more aggressive engine-management programming, and a host of detail changes that crank its high-winding output from 400 to 425 horsepower. As with the track-only Challenge, the single tranny choice is an F1 six-speed sequential manual gearbox; this one's standard mode matches the regular Modena's Sport setting, and the CS's "Race" model allows for even more commando-style shifts.

Like the GT3, the CS enjoys a lower ride height and a general stiffening of its underpinnings. Gorgeous 19-inch BBS wheels barely contain the huge Brembo ceramic brake discs that, save for their use of lug bolts instead of a center locking hub, come right off the Enzo. The rear-window glass is swapped for Perspex, and the purposeful interior is a study in carbon-fiber panels, painted floors, and rubber mats; even the radio gets the toss. Strap into the leather-lined, carbon-fiber-shelled sport seat, face the custard-colored 10,000-rpm tach, finger the F1's shifter paddles, and you'll find yourself reaching for your helmet and Nomex gloves.

The CS's diet and workout plan have it making 425 horsepower and weighing in at approximately 3000 pounds wet. That gives it a weight-to-horsepower ratio of 7.1:1, as compared with the 360 Modena coupe's 7.6.