Long-term test: Ferrari 360 Modena by Lino27

All-aluminium chassis, a melodious naturally aspirated V8, razor-sharp handling, and timeless Pininfarina lines — the Ferrari 360 Modena captivates with its precision driving, lightness, remarkable reliability, and true versatility.

But what can you really expect from a Ferrari 360 Modena that’s now over 20 years old?
What should you watch out for when buying one?
What budget should you plan for to enjoy the Ferrari legend with peace of mind?
And what tangible pleasures await you as the miles roll by?

@LINO27 shares here, with no sugar-coating, his years of ownership experience to guide anyone considering taking the leap — fully informed and with eyes wide open.

Specifications
Years: 1999–2005  Engine: 3.6L V8, 40 valves Transmission: 6-speed manual or F1 sequential automated manual
Maximum power: 400 hp at 8,500 rpm Maximum torque: 373 Nm at 4,750 rpm
Curb weight: 1,290 kg Top speed: 295 km/h (183 mph) Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds

@Franck: Quickly, can you tell us about your automotive background and why you chose the Ferrari 360 Modena?

@LINO27: After getting my driver’s license at 18, I started with a Peugeot 204, then moved on to Alfa Sprint and Sprint Veloce, a Lancia Beta Coupé, an Alpine A310 V6, and finally, in 2001, the realization of a dream — my Ferrari 308 GTB! A unique configuration and, in my opinion, still the most beautiful Ferrari ever made, even today. Sadly, after 13 years together, a stupid accident took it from me for good. It was declared beyond repair.

The Ferrari 360 Modena hadn’t particularly appealed to me when it was first unveiled. But while attending the “500 Ferraris Against Cancer” event at Le Vigeant every year, I began to see in it the genes of the magnificent Dino 246. It was time to move on, to start another chapter… From that moment, I began looking for a 6-speed manual Ferrari 360 Modena.

The first one I went to see was in the Netherlands. I instantly fell under the spell of its sound — and it had a Capristo exhaust! Just 29,000 km, but there were things in its history that bothered me, and during the test drive, I realized you could very quickly hit 200 km/h. So I thought, why not try an F1 gearbox? I went on to see two other 360 Modena F1s, but their condition wasn’t great. However, my choice was clear: it would definitely be a Ferrari 360 Modena!

@Franck: What were your criteria when buying a Ferrari 360 Modena, and how did you end up finding yours?

@LINO27: I set my criteria: I wanted Rosso paint, Challenge grille, Scuderia shields, and a black interior. I found one on Le Bon Coin that matched — 39,000 km — and, by chance, it was owned by a forum member, @soprano26! We exchanged many emails at first, then phone calls. It was a second-owner car, originally from Italy. I personally checked its history in Italy, and then with Ferrari France. Everything matched up perfectly. Train ticket in hand, I headed for the Drôme region!

The deal was done that day, and the return trip was far more pleasant than the journey there! I was now the proud owner of my Ferrari 360 Modena F1, exactly as I wanted it, and even with the bonus of Rosso brake calipers! It even had the battery maintainer plug in the front trunk compartment! Complete with all original equipment! The only things missing were the flashlight and the car cover. I quickly took care of that, adding seat and steering wheel covers as well. Today, it’s truly complete and matches its original factory spec — except for the leather luggage set!

@Franck: What advice would you give to someone looking to buy one today?

@LINO27: Patience and determination — you need to go and see a few! But at some point, you have to make a decision. Perfect cars don’t exist, unless you buy them new! And in any case, these cars now tend to have higher mileage than before.

I also think it’s really important to find one that matches your preferred configuration. On our forum, all the strengths and weaknesses of this beautiful Ferrari are well known, so don’t hesitate to browse the discussions and send private messages to current owners.

@Franck: What has impressed you the most about your Ferrari 360 Modena in use, compared to your previous cars?

@LINO27: In daily use, for me, it’s the mesmerizing, beautiful sound. I’m hesitating about changing my muffler for a Capristo Twin Sound or a Kline! I’d be happy to hear your opinions — in any case, I don’t want to lose the very high-pitched, metallic, and strident tones of the stock exhaust! On the other hand, I find it too understeery — though my 308 was the same. Maybe it’s an intentional factory setup? And the braking feels a bit weak, with poor pedal feedback. I also think it has too much body roll, although it remains quick to react. I believe it’s also very sensitive to tire pressures and quality.

Behind the wheel, you need to stay fairly relaxed but focused! The steering is quite communicative. Beyond that, it’s pure joy! Compared to my previous cars, it’s obviously in another league — much more modern, much more powerful! I also love just looking at it while it’s parked, sitting behind the wheel, and telling myself again, “What a privilege!”

@Franck: Can you tell us about the running costs of a Ferrari 360 Modena for normal use (insurance, annual maintenance, major service, unexpected expenses, etc.)?

@LINO27: For costs, I think I average about €500 per month (regular servicing, major services, tires, insurance, and fuel).

@Franck: In your opinion, what are the long-term points to watch out for on a Ferrari 360 Modena?

@LINO27: No particular points to watch for. I had all the suspension rebuilt at 53,000 km, and during the last major service at Ferrari Le Mans, they also replaced all the intake gaskets as a precaution, along with the lambda sensors, ignition coils, and the charcoal canister.

For major servicing, I now go to Ferrari in Le Mans, as I’ve been disappointed by too many so-called specialists with big reputations. But everyone has their own experiences and point of view.

I have no major issues to report — I think that if maintenance is kept up to schedule, the car doesn’t suffer from any significant problems!

@Franck: And if you had to do it all over again?

@LINO27: If I had to do it all over again, I’d do it without hesitation! Just for its lines, which are aging quite well — very well, even! And for its sound! I find it more harmonious than its successor, the Ferrari F430, even if in terms of performance it’s obviously behind.

@Franck: How do you use Ferrarista in connection with your experience with your Ferrari?

@LINO27: I joined at the time thanks to a friend, then I met @Franck and we hit it off during the annual charity rides in Le Havre. After a few small outings, one thing led to another, and I started posting a few sketches on the site and developed friendships with certain members who will recognize themselves if they read this post.

@Franck: What does the Ferrarista.club community bring you?

@LINO27: There are always interesting posts for every section, every model… Each member brings their own contribution, knowledge, and experience — a much-appreciated place of sharing for the passionate enthusiasts we are. We even have our own F1 championship!

I’d like to take advantage of this article to thank many of you — though this list is far from complete!

@camille, for the exhibition at the Château de Taulane, @tifosi101 for all our warm exchanges, @houston, and of course the Squadra des Bretzels. Then Jérôme @Bagnaud, for the trust you gave me in creating the rally plates!

And finally, to Franck and Isabelle, @Stradale56 (kani56), for their generosity and sharing — all with extraordinary simplicity!

Thank you, @Franck, for creating this wonderful place for exchange!

I look forward to seeing you all again soon!

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A huge thank you to @LINO27 for this authentic and valuable sharing of experience with his Ferrari 360 Modena.

Your opinions, anecdotes, or questions are very welcome! Don’t hesitate to comment to enrich the discussion, share your owner’s perspective, or ask about maintenance, budget, or driving sensations.

The more we exchange as enthusiasts, the further we advance together in knowledge and the joy of Ferrari. The floor is yours!

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