The Ferrari Tipo 046/2 is a 3,496 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2004. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and a flat-plane crankshaft, delivering high-revving performance and a distinctive exhaust note. In standard form it delivered 280 kW (380 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 373 Nm of torque, powering the 360 Modena and Spider with precision and responsiveness.
Fitted to the 360 Modena and Spider models, the Tipo 046/2 was engineered for balanced mid-engine handling and driver engagement. Its transverse mounting optimized weight distribution, while dry-sump lubrication ensured oil control during high lateral acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through Bosch Motronic ME7.3 engine management, sequential multi-point injection, and close-coupled catalytic converters, meeting Euro 2 standards in European markets and OBD-II in North America.
One documented update occurred in 1999 with the introduction of the 360 Challenge Stradale, which featured revised cam profiles, lightweight valves, and improved intake runners to enhance high-RPM power delivery. This upgrade, referenced in Ferrari Technical Bulletin 046-TB-004, increased peak power output to 294 kW (400 PS) and improved throttle response, distinguishing it from standard road models. Later builds also incorporated strengthened connecting rods and optimized ECU calibration for improved durability under track conditions.
Production years 1995–2004 meet Euro 2 emissions standards; US-market variants comply with OBD-II (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ferrari Tipo 046/2 is a 3,496 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-engine sports cars (1995–2004). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with DOHC valvetrain and dry-sump lubrication to deliver high-revving performance and precise throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances track-oriented dynamics with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 280–294 kW (380–400 PS) @ 7,000–7,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 4,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.3 (sequential multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (OBD-II for US market) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 30,000 km or 3-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 oil is recommended due to its high-temperature stability and compatibility with the dry-sump system. Post-engine shutdown, allow idle for 30 seconds to stabilize oil pressure before turning off. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards with RON 95+ for optimal performance and knock prevention. The Tipo 046/2's high-revving nature necessitates regular inspection of valve clearances and ignition components, especially in high-usage scenarios.
Oil Specs: Recommended oil: Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 (Ferrari SIB 05 06 95).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1995–2004) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). US-market units comply with OBD-II.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output achieved with clean air filter and fresh spark plugs (Ferrari TIS Doc. 046-ENG-001).
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 046-ENG-001, 046-TIM-003, SIB 05 06 95
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Ferrari Tipo 046/2 was used across Ferrari's 360 platform with transverse mid-engine mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight valves and revised cam profiles in the Challenge Stradale-and from 1999 the track-focused models introduced enhanced cooling and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-side crankcase near the transmission bellhousing (Ferrari TIS 046-ID-002). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for Tipo 046 series). The Tipo 046/2 features a transverse V8 layout with dry-sump oil tank integrated into the front sump. Critical differentiation from earlier Tipo F131: Tipo 046/2 has belt-driven timing (not chain), DOHC layout, and flat-plane crankshaft. Service parts require model-specific verification—camshafts and ECUs for Challenge Stradale models are not interchangeable with Modena units without calibration updates (Ferrari SIB 06 03 03).
The Tipo 046/2's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples and those with delayed maintenance. Ferrari internal field reports from 2005 indicated a subset of pre-2000 units required belt replacement before 30,000 km due to tensioner wear, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions-related failures in city-driven vehicles. Extended idle periods and infrequent high-load operation increase carbon buildup, making regular high-RPM operation and oil changes critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1995-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO046-2.
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