[Video] Listen to a straight-piped F355 blast up a mountain at 9,000rpm | GRR
I know what you’re thinking – that’s not the Goodwood hillclimb. Admittedly, no, but this car is deserving of the spotlight wherever it may run.
For this is René Ruch´s ‘Monster’, a unique Ferrari F355 Challenge modified especially for hillclimbing. Powered by a naturally-aspirated Zytek V8 (de-stroked from 4.5-litres to 4.0-litres in order to comply with Swiss Hillclimb Rules), it produces a huge 520PS at 9,000rpm and 525Nm of torque.
Weighing in at just 975Kg, and featuring a huge wing and floor-scraping splitter, it is an undeniable weapon, and its performance is astounding. Watch as it makes mincemeat of the Osnabruck and Oberhallau hillclimbs, breaking the silence of the scenic countryside with its ear-splitting scream.
Swiss driver Ruch has contested the F355 Challenge in the European Hillclimb Racing scene for the past 15 years, and you can find countless videos of the duo online.
Now, just remember, a normal F355 had 380PS and weighed 1,483kg…
Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a mid-morning helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: Enjoy a four‑minute celebration of all things Suzuki RG500