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Ferrari F142 Speculation Continues

The rumours and speculation surrounding Ferrari’s upcoming F430 successor continue to bounce around the interwebs, with new reports adding more fuel to the fire.
Ferrari F142 spyshots have been doing the rounds for a few months now, so we know the new mo


The rumours and speculation surrounding Ferrari's upcoming F430 successor continue to bounce around the interwebs, with new reports adding more fuel to the fire.

Ferrari F142 spyshots have been doing the rounds for a few months now, so we know the new model is going to be a looker (these renderings should be pretty close to the mark). What is still unconfirmed though is what will lurk beneath the sleek coachwork and propel the F142.

Most tend to agree that the seven-speed twin-clutch transmission from the California will handle shifting duties (possibly exclusively), but as to what will provide the motivation is still anyone's guess.

Reports put anything from a lower displacement twin-turbo V8 to a 4.5 litre naturally-aspirated bent-eight sitting behind the driver. Whatever the configuration, output is expected to register around the 375kW (500hp) mark.

There are rumoured efforts to reduce the friction on rotating components to improve power, response and fuel efficiency. In this regard, expect things like highly-polished camshafts to appear on the tech sheet.

Weight reduction should feature high on the priority list but with the F430 expected to tip the scales around 1250kg it's hardly a porker. Lighter materials such as a hybrid aluminium/composite - currently under development at Maranello’s new Mille Chili institute - could make an appearance alongside the usual carbon-fibre body bits.

Ferrari may even go as far as ditching the electric seats, instead opting for fixed pews and adjustable pedals and instruments.

A hot topic for the F450/F142 has been the possible usage of KERS, but Ferrari has said that we should not expect a road-car application of the Kinetic Energy Recovery System before 2012.

While things are still well-and-truly up in the air for now, we do love a good bit of speculation. Rest assured we'll keep you posted as new information comes to light, so stay tuned.

[Source: Car Magazine]

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