Feeling pure adrenaline in this road-going racing car: the Dallara Stradale

Dallara

Feeling pure adrenaline in this road-going racing car: the Dallara Stradale

Published 6 March 2025

The perfect 1 X 1: powerful engine performance X low overall weight

The Dallara Stradale is the result of 50 years of racing experience and the fulfillment of a dream of engineer Giampaolo Dallara. On his 80th birthday, he drove the first model himself – a symbolic new beginning. The Stradale is a car for every self-chosen holiday, for the pure driving experience, inspired by the feeling of freedom of a motorcycle, but with four wheels. Thanks to more than 40 years of aerodynamics research, an ultra-light, mechanically pure vehicle has been created that does without unnecessary electronics. Whether on the road or even better on the racetrack – it's all about one thing: total driving pleasure! The Dallara Stradale combines lightweight construction, aerodynamics and high-performance technology to create an extraordinary driving experience. Without doors, the air is directed to the engine through two “nostrils” on the hood – a combination of functionality and design. The front diffuser and special air ducts behind the front wheels reduce drag and maximize downforce. The flat underside and the rear diffuser, in conjunction with the spoiler, ensure maximum stability. Depending on the configuration – Standard or Track – the Stradale achieves up to 820 kg of downforce. The configuration between these modes is uncomplicated and can be done by yourself in your own garage. With a total weight of just 855 kg, the Stradale relies on innovative materials such as prepreg carbon for its monocoque structure. Its aerodynamic efficiency and the precise chassis enable lateral acceleration of over 2G. A 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo engine from Ford, known from the Focus RS, works in the rear. As the lightest turbo unit available, it delivers 400 hp and 500 Nm of torque between 3000 and 5000 rpm. The combination of a transversely mounted mid-engine and rear-wheel drive ensures agile, direct handling. As a result, the Stradale sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.25 s and reaches a top speed of 280 km/h. There is a choice of a sequential six-speed gearbox or an intelligent paddle-shift system with anti-stall and over-rev function.

Article image
Article image
Article image

Only the bare essentials – For pure concentration on the road

The interior of the Dallara Stradale is made entirely of carbon fiber and reduced to essentials. The seats are not adjustable, but pedals and the steering wheel can be adjusted in length. The digital display provides all important information on revs, speed and lap times. The steering module is straight out of racing, with important function buttons and a 12 o'clock marker for optimum control. Despite the purist design, there is a small storage compartment and a cup holder. The blinker is activated via button and must be switched off manually. The simple air conditioning system provides some comfort, while the racing car seat belts underline the sporty character. Getting into the Dallara Stradale requires a little skill: first you sit on the edge of the carbon bodywork, guide your left leg into the car and place your foot in the seat recess provided – which is even labeled for this purpose. The right leg then follows, while the feet are then positioned in the footwell. The pedals should be adjusted manually beforehand using a lever in the door so that there is enough legroom for this exercise. If you like it particularly sporty, you can skip the elegant way and hop straight into the cockpit with a swing – in true racing style.

Article image
Article image

Pure and unadulterated on the asphalt

The handling of the Dallara Stradale is uncompromisingly designed for performance. The extremely direct steering without servo assistance enables precise and immediate handling, which particularly shows its strengths on the racetrack. The dual-clutch transmission exhibits slight delays, which is why the manual mode is the better choice for a dynamic driving style. Mechanical noises are audible unfiltered (as is the strong engine exhaust heat directly behind the driver's seat), which underlines the purist driving experience. The brakes engage much later than on conventional road vehicles, which requires some practice. While the Stradale delivers top performance on smooth racetracks, its uncompromising set-up can feel less comfortable on uneven roads. This vehicle is clearly aimed at enthusiasts who are looking for an unadulterated and direct driving experience. In addition, the windshield and roof are only available as optional extras. Without both, wearing a helmet is recommended. Conveniently, the car has special helmet compartments behind the seats.

Article image
Article image
Article image

The expert in chassis manufacturing

Dallara Automobili was founded in 1972 by Gian Paolo Dallara in Varano de' Melegari, Italy. Dallara had previously worked for Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini and was involved in the development of the Miura, among other cars. From the very beginning, the company's focus was on the construction of highly developed racing cars, particularly for Formula and prototype series. Since the 1990s, Dallara has been the leading chassis supplier to the IndyCar series and supplies vehicles for numerous racing classes, including Formula 3, Formula 2 and Formula E. In addition to working with brands such as Bugatti, Ferrari and KTM, Dallara ventured into road car construction in 2017 with the Dallara Stradale. The company is considered a pioneer in the field of aerodynamics and lightweight construction and operates one of the most modern wind tunnel and simulation centers in the world. Today, Dallara is one of the most respected developers in motorsport and remains an innovation leader in the industry. The Dallara Stradale is available in three body variants: as a barchetta without doors, as a targa with a removable roof and as a closed coupé. The lightweight sports car is produced in the headquarters of Dallara in Varano de' Melegari. Production is limited to just 600 units, making the Stradale an exclusive model. Prices start at 184,450 euros, depending on the chosen equipment and configuration.

Article image