FYI: Charlie Graovac’s 30th birthday gift to himself was more than just a Ferrari; it was a stunning transformation of an F430 into a Liberty Walk masterpiece.
From Dream to Reality: Charlie Graovac’s Unforgettable Ferrari F430 Transformation
Charlie Graovac has always been passionate about cars. Partnered with his father, he co-owns a film and TV vehicle rental company. While Charlie has never been a regular at car shows or meets, he has dabbled in light modifications on some of his past vehicles. However, he had a lifelong dream—to own a Ferrari by his 30th birthday and customize it to mirror his personal style.
The Search for the Perfect Ferrari
Charlie initially aimed for a Maranello classic, specifically a Ferrari 348. However, considering the potential upkeep issues of an ’80s model, he pivoted to a more balanced option, the F360—a car that merged analog features with early 2000s modernity. But fate had other plans for him.
While vacationing abroad, Charlie stumbled upon an online listing for a low-mileage Ferrari F430 F1 Berlinetta in Nero Daytona Black, complete with a custom white leather interior. It was perfect for his ambitious project. He quickly purchased it, setting the stage for his first serious car endeavor.
A Birthday Surprise
Returning from his trip, Charlie’s wife, Charlotte, picked up the new Ferrari from Car Audio & Security in London. They concocted a plan—Charlie would witness the finished customized car for the first time on his 30th birthday.
Evolution of the Build
Initially, the customization was to involve only air suspension and wheels. However, after meeting Jimmy Pearman from Liberty Walk EU, Charlie’s vision expanded. The potential was boundless, thanks to LB-Works enhancements.
The Eight-Month Transformation
Over eight months, the Ferrari underwent a magnificent transformation:
- Body Kit: Liberty Walk’s LB-Works F430 Ver.2 complete body kit, featuring front, side, and rear diffusers, and a ducktail spoiler over the overfenders.
- Exterior: A full paint job by Colourkraft in Northamptonshire, accented with Petronas Green.
- Wheels: Swapped original Rotiform wheels for custom 6AD Forged 2.55 wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan semi-slicks.
- Suspension: Prazi air struts operated by Air Lift Performance 3H Management.
- Lighting: Installation of Morimoto LED taillights.
- Sound System: Integrated a JL Audio system for high-quality in-car audio.
- Exhaust System: A visually and aurally impressive Deutsch Tech exhaust system.
Charlie had purchased this Ferrari nine months earlier but hadn’t laid eyes on it until it was revealed in its Liberty Walk glory on his milestone birthday.
Driven Passion
Charlie and Charlotte’s enthusiasm for driving Ferraris isn’t just passion—it’s a lifestyle. Meeting them at Risenation in Belgium earlier this year was nothing short of inspiring. They frequently drive their Ferraris to events around Europe, fueling a deep-seated fervor in the car community.
Future Plans
The story doesn’t end here. Charlie teased plans for a "winterized" version of the Ferrari, hinting at sub-zero drives and even more automotive excitement early next year. Keep an eye out for updates on this extraordinary wide-body Ferrari.
Conclusion
Charlie Graovac’s journey to owning and customizing his dream Ferrari F430 is a testament to passion and creativity. His story is an inspiration to anyone with a dream car project in mind. Stay tuned for more updates on Charlie’s astonishing Ferrari transformations.
Donald Smith
Editor of Automotive.fyi
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
