Before the formal introduction of the Ferrari 355’s successor, there was no doubt that the replacement had big shoes to fill. The aging 355 was Ferrari’s best-selling car of all time, and it showed that Luca di Montezemolo was bringing the company back towards profitability and success after Enzo’s death. Introduced as a 1999 model, the 360 Modena launched a number of key updates that made the car more user-friendly while still keeping the requisite Ferrari drama as a fast and sensuously designed Italian sports car. Pininfarina’s design for the 360 was greatly different than the 355, trading sharp angles and pop-up headlights for smooth, flowing lines and integrated clear headlamps. The 360 also saw the introduction of the clear engine cover that showcases the beautiful engine design; the very heart of every Ferrari.
Everything mechanical about the 360 was new and improved. The aluminum space frame chassis was 40-percent stiffer than the 355’s, and it was much lighter, despite an increase in overall size. Ferrari’s brand-new 3.6-litre engine only increased overall power by 25 horsepower from the 355, but the 360’s performance was markedly increased due to a drastically lower power to weight ratio.
This 360 Modena is finished in attractive Tour de France Blue with tan leather interior. It has covered only 17,250 miles from new and all books and records are included in the sale. Ferrari of Beverly Hills rebuilt the engine under warranty with less than 5,000 miles and the clutch was also replaced at this time. A previous owner installed a custom sound system in the car at a cost of over $15,000. Today, the car is reported to drive wonderfully and it has recently been serviced.