Ferrari 360 GT |
The 2002 Ferrari 360 GT is very much like the cars that JMB raced in 2001. Again, Michelotto is responsible for the body developments which hold Pininfarina's original lines. Bodywork revisions include a NACA duct on front lid for interior cooling, wider front and rear fenders, a larger, more developed rear wing and a new front valance which can support the optional driving lights.
Since the introduction of the 360 Modena, Ferrari has received numerous requests for factory-prepared cars for other international championships. With the help of factory backing, the JMB Competition team 360 fought off the Porsche competition to take the 2001 FIA N-GT World Championship team and drivers' titles.
On the strength of this showing, Ferrari has decided to produce a specific model - the 360 GT - derived from the Challenge car for privateers in the FIA N-GT and A.C.O. (Automobile Club de l'Ouest) championships in 2002. Production will be strictly limited to around 30 cars over the next three years and the ex-factory price (ie. excluding tax and delivery) is 382,000 Euros for the FIA version, and 402,000 Euros for the ACO version. The two versions differ exclusively for the aerodynamic packages and, in the case of the FIA car, the adoption of the F1-style shift.
As for mechanics, Ferrari has considered every component. The engine features, high-lift camshafts, lighter pistons, reshaped combustion chambers and re-mapped mototronics. Even with two 30.8mm air restrictors, the engine produces 430HP. This is a remarkable figure given that air restrictors stop about half of the air reaching throttle bodies.
The suspension remains similar to the production 360, having harder springs, shocks and an adjustable anti-roll bar.
Like every racecar the 360 GT is stripped of its interior luxuries with all non-essential components removed. The gauges are replaced with a digital display and a full roll cage is installed. In total, Ferrari engineers shed 600lbs off the production 360, which makes it 400 lbs lighter than the Challenge car.
Ferrari 360 GT Interior |
Engine
Type: rear, longitudinal 90° V8
Bore/stroke: 85 x 79 mm
Unitary displacement: 448.29 cc
Total displacement: 3586.20 cc
Compression ratio: 11:1
Maximum power: 316 kW (430 hp) at 8500 rpm
Power per litre: 120 hp/l
Maximum torque: 377 Nm (38.5 kgm) at 5000 rpm
Valve actuation: twin overhead camshafts per bank, five valves per cylinder
Fuel feed: Bosch electronic injection
Ignition: Bosch electronic, single spark plug per cylinder
Lubrication: dry sump
Clutch: single-plate
Chassis
Frame: aluminium spaceframe
Front suspension: independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs over telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Rear suspension: independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs over telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Brakes: discs
Transmission: electro-hydraulic F1 6-speed + reverse
Steering: rack-and-pinion
Fuel tank: capacity 100 litres
Front tyres: 265/645 x 18
Rear tyres: 305/680 x 18
Bodywork
Type: two-seater berlinetta
Length: 4557 mm
Width: 1985 mm
Height: 1185 mm
Wheelbase: 2600 mm
Front track: 1728 mm
Rear track: 1643 mm
Weight: 1100 kg (dry)