430 Scuderia steps out at Los Angeles motor show

Ferrari has unveiled its latest high-performance two-seater berlinetta, the 430 Scuderia.

Launching the new car at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, the Italian manufacturer said the car would exceed clients' expectations when they came to drive the vehicle.

"The 430 Scuderia features a racing soul, which symbolizes the very passion and excitement that enthusiasts around the world have come to expect from Ferrari," said Maurizio Parlato, president and chief executive officer for Ferrari North America.

"Our North American customers specifically have played a significant role in our owner's racing programmes for nearly 15 years, and now we have a vehicle to share that spirit for street driving, while maintaining a stunning example of our racing heritage."

The new Scuderia incorporates Ferrari's F1 knowledge to provide a cutting-edge road car.

It weights 1,250kg without fuel and has 503 horsepower delivered at 8500rpm by its naturally aspirated 4308 cm3 V8 engine.

The low weight-power ratio of 2.45 kg/hp allows the new Ferrari to reach 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds from a standing start.

Also incorporating the new F1-SuperFast2 gearbox, the car is capable of changing gear in just 60ms, allowing the car to accelerate at blistering speed.

It is estimated 250 cars will be available to the North American market in 2008.