What it is: An updated F430 with a larger, more powerful engine (hence the name change), a restyled body with larger air intakes in front and aft of the B-pillars, and a new dashboard that can now house a navigation system.

Platform: The aluminum structure of the F430 remains, as does the basic chassis. No weight gain is expected.

Powertrain: The F430’s V-8 engine grows to 5.0 liters and gains direct fuel injection. Output rises to more than 550 horses. A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox will be optional.

Competition: The usual suspects—Aston Martin DBS, Chevy Corvette ZR1, Lamborghini LP560-4, McLaren P11, Porsche 911 GT2.

Estimated arrival: The new F500 will take center stage this fall at the Frankfurt auto show. Sales will begin in early 2010 with a convertible (spider) version following later that year. In 2011, a more powerful, lighter, and more expensive Scuderia version, topping $300,000, will debut. Prices will start at $200,000 for a base F500; convertibles will command $250,000.

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