Estimated Price: £80,000 - £100,000

In 1999, Ferrari knew that it was time to replace their much loved 355 and consequently the 360 was introduced to critical acclaim and immediately set a new benchmark for affordable 'supercar' styling and performance. The 360 Modena design was revolutionary, making extensive use of lightweight materials in its construction, resulting in a much lighter car along with substantially increased rigidity. Ferrari also paid particular attention to improving the under-body aerodynamics using knowledge gained from their Formula 1 programme and the 360 boasts a completely flat bottom with two prominent rear diffusers. The new model was always intended to have a convertible counterpart and in 2001, the Spider was unveiled, utilising the same 400bhp 3.6-litre V8 engine displayed underneath a glass panel. The complex mechanical operation of the retracting roof necessitated significant engineering changes for the Spider including enlarging the side air intakes and moving the inlet manifolds towards the centre of the engine.

For many enthusiasts, however, the defining feature of this particular example sits between the seats. One of a reported 478 manual 360 Spiders supplied to the UK, it combines open-top V8 motoring with Ferrari’s sought-after six-speed gated gearbox. The deliberate movement of the lever, the opportunity to judge each change and the response of the V8 combine to make the manual 360 an especially appealing proposition for those who enjoy being fully involved behind the wheel.

The Ferrari 360, particularly the Spider, is one of those Ferrari models whose lines are enhanced by darker colours, illustrated clearly by the striking Spider on offer here. Presented in Nero Daytona with a contrasting Tan interior, this example wears a colour combination that gives the Spider’s curvaceous shape an understated presence. The dark exterior provides a particularly effective contrast with the warm cabin, whilst the polished gear gate supplies an unmistakably Ferrari focal point as do the desirable factory metal and enamel wing shields.

Our vendor has owned the car for over twelve years, during which it has formed part of a significant private collection. Used sparingly, it has covered fewer than 3,000 miles during that period and indicated just 27,461 miles at the time of cataloguing. Its availability now offers the next custodian an opportunity to acquire a manual Spider emerging from long-term ownership.

In preparation for sale, the Ferrari will benefit from recommissioning, including a full Ferrari belt kit service, an MOT and a comprehensive detail. This planned attention reflects our vendor’s intention to present the car ready for the next chapter, following its relatively limited use within the collection. Complete with its Schedoni tan leather tool case and tyre inflator. Interested parties are encouraged to inspect the accompanying paperwork detailing the work completed before the auction.

Guided at £80,000–£100,000, this 360 Spider offers an inviting opportunity to experience a naturally aspirated, manual gearbox Ferrari in an appealing specification. Its combination of restrained colours, modest indicated mileage and long-term ownership should attract both established marque enthusiasts and those considering their first Prancing Horse. Above all, it offers the prospect of enjoying the qualities that make this generation so compelling: open-air motoring, that gloriously addictive V8 soundtrack, and the satisfaction of Ferrari’s celebrated gated manual gearbox.