Secret New Ferrari Breaks Cover

Based on the same aluminium chassis as the acclaimed F360 Modena, the F430 will be powered by a new 4.3-litre, 500bhp V8 designed to see off competition from the Lamborghini Gallardo and new Porsche 911 Turbo.

Inspired by the Enzo supercar and 612 Scaglietti, the F430 could keep the Modena name, but has also been linked with a new Monza badge. It sports a body that's far more dramatic than the current machine. Sacrificing flowing curves for aggressive lines and angles, the car is fitted with bigger 19-inch alloys, larger, functional air intakes and a new rear diffuser to aid downforce.

Auto Express's sources have suggested there's even a possibility that the new F430 will get active aerodynamics, including a rear spoiler that lifts at speed - similar to the new 911 Carrera. At the rear, the car's looks are particularly dramatic, with circular rear lights, similar in style to those fitted to the Enzo and 612. The engine, the centrepiece of any Ferrari, will still be visible under a perspex engine cover.

The unit is a development of the 4.2-litre V8 that debuted in Maserati's Coup΃© and Spyder. Ferrari has raised capacity to 4.3 litres and revised the engine management and exhaust system to improve the engine's torque output. Although standard cars will offer a manual gearbox, Ferrari's F1-style sequential box will also be available. It's thought the six-speed unit has been further developed to improve the speed and smoothness of the change.

The new machine will also feature carbon ceramic brakes, as seen on the F360 Stradale. As well as offering incredible stopping power, the lightweight composite discs are much harder-wearing than steel items.

Prices are still to be confirmed, but the F430 is expected to cost slightly more than the current Modena, which starts at ΂£103,275. A drop-top Spyder version of the new car is under development, alongside a stripped-out Stradale variant. Both of these cars are likely to hit the road in mid-2006.