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 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 but also kept the requisite Ferrari drama.

Pininfarina’s design for the 360 was massively different than the 355, trading sharp angles and pop-up headlights for smooth, flowing lines. Additionally, the 360 saw the introduction of Ferrari’s now trademark clear engine cover, showcasing the design of that beautiful V-8 and its red heads.

Everything mechanical about the 360 was new and improved. The aluminum space frame chassis was 40 percent stiffer than the 355’s and much lighter, despite an increase in overall size. Ferrari’s brand-new 3.6-liter 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. Perhaps the most important change was the introduction of a removable panel in between the passenger bay and the engine compartment. Combined with the placement of the 360’s timing belt at the front of the engine, this meant that belt changes could be completed with the engine in place, dramatically reducing service costs over previous mid-engine Ferraris.

Unlike the 355, the 360 platform was originally designed to work as both a coupe and convertible. Ferrari designers strengthened other areas of the chassis to keep as much torsional rigidity as possible. As a result, the spider is just 130 pounds heavier than the coupe. On sunny days, the 360’s top folds out of sight in a mere 20 seconds, keeping the lines of the beautiful Pininfarina body unobstructed.

The 360 Spider offered today wears Ferrari’s classic combination of Giallo Modena paintwork over a Nero leather interior. Equipped with the popular F1 gearbox, gear changes are quick and keep the driver’s hands on the wheel during spirited driving. Optional extras include Scuderia shields, red brake calipers, leather-covered roll bars, and yellow contrast stitching on the interior. The factory wind deflector, books, tools, and flashlight also are present. Additionally, this 360 Spider is fitted with a Tubi exhaust system, adding to the fantastic aural experience of top-down Ferrari motoring.

Cosmetically, this 360 Spider remains in very good condition. The paint presents nicely and shows no noticeable imperfections, except for a minor paint chip on the left fender. The interior is very much the same; although, the driver’s seat shows typical wear along the bolster. Included are custom carpets with matching yellow embroidered prancing horses that have served to protect the original trim underneath.

An RM specialist noted that the electronic key worked properly, and it started without hesitation and runs as one would expect. After a brief drive, the gear changes were smooth and the F1 paddle shifters functioned properly. As it was a warm California afternoon, the top was also lowered without issue. Though only taken for a brief jaunt through the hills, the Spider took to the turns handily and continued to turn heads as it passed by.

There is no doubt that the 360 Spider marked a new era for Ferrari convertibles. Combining F1 technology with a state-of-the-art folding roof and an incredibly strong chassis, the spider was arguably just as sporting as the coupe. With just over 7,000 miles, this example presents as a lightly used, regularly serviced, and well cared-for example of the breed. This 360 Spider will surely provide countless miles of top-down smiles for its next owner.