Air flow modulation
Traditionally, Ferrari has clothed its mechanical package in forms that are dictated by the need for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. In the case of the F430, this principle has been developed to the extreme, employing exactly the same engineering approach to computer development models and wind tunnel testing as used by the F1 team.In this way, Ferrari's engineers have been able to modulate the air flow both around the car, as well as under it, to perfection.
The result is a highly efficient configuration that channels air flow for maximum downforce and thus grip. Similarly air is channelled to the engine to both increase power as well as optimise cooling of transmission and brakes even under the heaviest use. Perfecting the Ferrari F430's aerodynamics has brought about a 50 percent increase in downforce compared to the 360 Modena, thus increasing high-speed stability and the car's active safety. At 200 km/h, that figure equates to 45 kg more downforce than the 360 Modena and this becomes 85 kg at 300 km/h, amounting to a total of 280 kg.
The significant progress made in the car's aerodynamics is also reflected in the improvement of the ratio between the coefficient of downforce (Cl) and the drag coefficient (Cd) with a 40 percent improvement over the 360 Modena. This excellent result was in part achieved by including a new spoiler at the bottom of the front bumper where it cleaves ‘clean' air, i.e. that still undisturbed by the turbulence generated around the body of the vehicle. Lengthy development of the shape and the angle of attack of the spoiler resulted in an impressive increase in downforce over the front axle – up to 130 kg – which contributes in no uncertain manner to longitudinal vehicle stability and steering precision.