Video: Ferrari 458 Challenge hits the track

A spy video of the Ferrari 458 Challenge gently gliding around the Fiorano test-track has hit the web.

Except it's not gliding. And it's not gentle. It's very, very fast.

Auto Motor und Sport has filmed Ferrari's hottest new weapon undergoing some pre-launch testing, and you will agree, it looks mighty quick.

Should your memory have failed, let us alleviate your temporary amnesia. The 458 Challenge is a track-attack special and carries the standard car's 4.5-litre 562bhp banshee-V8, but loses some considerable weight thanks to thinner bodyshell panels and liberal use of carbon fibre.

The Challenge also gets stiffer springs, a lower ride height and new rubber, which goes some way to explaining its Fiorano test track time of 1m 16.5s. To add some context, that's eight seconds faster than an Enzo.

Watch the vid, and then go and buy a lottery ticket. Or some important friends.

Vijay Pattni