Ferrari 360

I've owned this 2000 Ferrari 360 Modena for quite some time now, and honestly, it's probably one of my favorite cars. The reason is pretty simple: the first Ferrari my father ever owned was a manual 360 Modena. It was also the first supercar I ever rode in as a child. So this car holds a lot of memories for me.

When I decided to buy a 360, I absolutely wanted a version equipped with the original metal-mesh manual transmission. You can convert some F1 versions, but owning a factory-built model with this transmission is something else entirely. Today, they’ve become rare, and that adds a lot to the driving pleasure.

I chose the Giallo Modena yellow instead of a classic red. Many Ferraris are red, but this shade perfectly highlights the lines designed by Pininfarina. It catches the eye without being over the top.

What impresses me most is just how modern this car feels to drive while still retaining a genuine mechanical feel. The naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V8 is fantastic. It revs up with that signature high-pitched Ferrari sound and delivers a driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare in newer models. In my opinion, it’s one of the most enjoyable Ferraris to drive in the modern era.

The other surprise has to do with reliability. Many people assume that a 25-year-old Ferrari is a hassle to own, but the 360 remains relatively straightforward. No hybrid system, minimal intrusive electronics, and a proven mechanical setup. The main things to keep an eye on are mainly the door handles, certain leather components that don’t age well, and a few finishing details. Nothing alarming for a car of this age.

An interesting feature of my car: it still has its original spare tire. It’s probably the only Ferrari that many enthusiasts will ever see with a genuine spare tire installed at the factory, along with the jack and all the tools. These days, even supercars costing several hundred thousand euros no longer offer this kind of detail.

My only minor regret is the black rear grille above the engine. I'd like it to be painted yellow, as some owners do on the Challenge Style models. But since I'm very attached to the car's original condition, I've decided to keep it just as it came from the factory.

Ultimately, this Ferrari 360 Modena embodies everything I love about cars: a naturally aspirated engine, a manual transmission, a timeless design, and, above all, a strong emotional appeal. Every drive reminds me why Ferraris from the 2000s hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts.