The specs of the F430 are enough to remind one that it is not to be treated with anything less than respect at speed, despite

The new V8 displaces 4.3 litres and its output is an astounding 490 hp at 8,500 rpm. (Photo: Gerry Frechette, Canadian Auto Press)

all the modern electronics designed to keep you out of trouble, and which I was sternly told to leave in the full "on" position. Works for me... The new V8 displaces 4.3 litres, obviously, and its output is an astounding 490 hp at 8,500 rpm. That is 114 hp per litre, naturally aspirated! In case you think this is just a big motorcycle engine, its torque is an equally impressive 343 lb-ft at 5,250 rpm. In a car that weighs only 1,350 kg (2,975 lb), this makes for a rather favourable power-to-weight ratio, a 0-to-100 km/h time of 4 seconds, and a top end of 320 km/h.

So, I set out down pit lane into Turn One in search of some impression of the F430's capabilities, and I can attest to its fierce acceleration in any of the first four of six gears. I may have only briefly entered the top half of its speed range, but really, that was

Fast or slow, the steering was incisive, the cornering forces almost neck-straining, the braking enough to scrape the front spoiler. (Photo: Gerry Frechette, Canadian Auto Press)

plenty rapid enough to elicit a big grin from this jaded scribe, plus internal hoots in deference to the externally-calm Ferrari staffer riding shotgun. The red coupe settled into a smooth rhythm, the radii of the various corners being of little concern to it, as if it regarded such low velocities with disdain. Fast or slow, the steering was incisive, the cornering forces almost neck-straining, the braking enough to scrape the front spoiler. Really, what can one say about such a car? For most owners, access to a track is almost mandatory to even approach its limits - and to get rid of the "need for speed" that driving it would constantly create.