The Challenge Stradale had an electro-hydraulic F1-type gearbox. Both clutch and shifting were controlled via paddles on the steering column. A new control logic cut shifting times in every phase of use too. There was a special button on the tunnel for reverse too. There were two different configurations (Sport and Race) with corresponding damper and traction control (ASR) settings. In Race mode and with ASR disabled, drivers also had the Formula 1-derived Launch Control function too. The Challenge Stradale had a 90° V8 mid engine mounted longitudinally behind the cabin and in unit with the gearbox and differential. Its maximum power was boosted to 425 hp at 8.500 rpm, delivering an excellent specific power of 118,5 CV/litro thanks in part to a slight supercharging at maximum speed (+2% increase in power). The Challenge Stradale retained had the same already high peak torque of 38 kgm at 4750 rpm as the 360 Modena.