Its 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8’s output of 670hp (493kW) at 8000rpm and 760Nm at 3000rpm might be slightly down on the mental 488 Pista, but the racer has a comprehensive aero package, of which the massive rear wing is obviously the most noticeable element.
The 488 Challenge also rides lower than its road-going siblings, courtesy of bespoke no adjustable springs and dampers, but arguably the biggest game-changers are the slick tyres (275mm wide at the front, 315mm at the rear), which means you brake much later and carry far more corner speed than previous Challenge cars.
Ferrari Challenge dates back to 1993 and was created for owners of the 348 Berlinetta who wanted to have a crack at racing. The series has steadily evolved over the years, and Ferrari has subsequently rolled out Challenge racers based on the 348, 355, 360, 430, 458 and currently the 488.
The Challenge series has mushroomed to the extent there are now three separate championships – Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific – with each of these attracting healthy fields across two categories. Many other race series allow the challenge cars to enter, GT Cup, Britcar Endurance and Ferrari Club Racing series to mention a few.
Pictured above is the SBR Engineering 488 Challenge car which won its class in GT Cup in 2018 and won the Britcar Endurance Championship in 2019.
Ferrari 488 Challenge Technical Specifications
| ENGINE | ||
| type | V8 - 90° - Turbo – Dry Sump | |
| total displacement | 3.902 cm3 | |
| bore and stroke | 86,5 x 83 mm (3.4 x 3.3 in) | |
| maximum power * | 690 CV (492 kW) at 8000 rpm | |
| maximum torque * | 760 Nm at 3000 rpm in VII gear | |
| specific output | 172 cv/l | |
| compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| DIMENSION AND WEIGHT | ||
| length | 4568 mm (179.8 in) | |
| width | 1952 mm (76.9 in) | |
| height | 1213 mm (47.8 in) | |
| wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.3 in) | |
| front track | 1679 mm (66.1 in) | |
| rear track | 1647 mm (64.8 in) | |
| kerb weight ** | 1440 Kg | |
| dry weight ** | 1320 Kg | |
| weight distribution | 41,5% front – 58,5% rear | |
| boot capacity | 230 l (8.12 cu ft) | |
| fuel tank capacity | 100 l | |
| TYRES | ||
| front | 19" Pirelli Sick | |
| rear | 19" Pirelli Slick | |
| BRAKES | ||
| front | 15.7 x 8.8 x 1.4 in | |
| rear | 14.2 x 9.2 x 1.3 in | |
| TRANSMISSION AND GEARBOX | ||
| 7 gears f1 dual clutch transmission | ||
| ELECTRONIC CONTROL SYSTEMS | ||
| e-diff3, Adjustable f1-trac, Motosport adjustable abs/ebd performance with ferrari pre-fill, frs scm-e, ssc | ||
| PERFORMANCE | ||
| maximum speed | 330 km/h (205 mph) | |
| 0-100 km/h | 3,0 s | |
| 0-200 km/h | 8,3 s | |
| 0-400m | 10,45 s | |
| 0-1000m | 18, 7 s | |
| weight/power ratio | 2,04 kg/cv (6,13 lb/kW) | |
Ferrari 488 Challenge
The Ferrari 488 Challenge represents the sixth-generation model in Ferrari’s prestigious one-make racing series, debuting in 2017 as the first Challenge car to feature a turbocharged engine. Based on the 488 GTB, the Challenge variant introduced a host of performance upgrades including lightweight bodywork, aerodynamic enhancements, and an advanced 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 670 bhp—the most powerful engine in Challenge history.
As of 2025, values for 488 Challenge cars typically range from £140,000 to £200,000, depending on condition, usage, and series history. While not road-legal, these cars offer exceptional value for those seeking a modern, factory-built Ferrari race car with cutting-edge performance. At SB Race Engineering, we provide full technical support, maintenance, and race preparation services for the 488 Challenge—drawing on years of experience with Ferrari’s Challenge platforms. Whether you're competing in the Ferrari Challenge series or enjoying private test days, our team ensures your 488 Challenge is operating at peak performance. Learn more on our Track Preparation page.