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At the Geneva Motor Show next week Ferrari will unveil the replacement for the F355 - the Ferrari F360 Modena. The Modena is a larger car than it's predecessor, yet weighs 100kg less! This sets the tone for the concept in general. The red-blooded normally aspirated V8 remains, now a 3.6-litre 40 valve unit producing 400bhp. It seems that Ferrari have no problem getting more than 100bhp/litre these days.
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Perhaps the most significant feature of the new car (a first for Ferrari) is the extensive use of aluminium to make the entire chassis and body - surely the main reason for the car's light weight. The highly successful F1-style clutchless gearbox will be carried over (now in its 2nd generation), as will the conventional six-speed manual transmission, complete with Ferrari's traditional open-gate gear-selector.
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Photographs of F360 Modena
 Ferrari S.p.A. & come from the Official Site
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Design-wise, we are a little undecided about the newcomer. It is very obviously a Ferrari (a good thing), but not a particularly beautiful one (not a good thing). Pininfarina's designs of late seem to be much fussier than the simplistic lines they penned in the '50s and '60s. This is evident in the 550 Maranello too, although that is a very beautiful car in the flesh. I predict that this shape will grow on us though -it is a Ferrari after all! See below for the car's specifications (manufacturer's figures).
S.O'
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Length - 4477mm Width - 1922mm Height - 1214mm Wheelbase - 2600mm Weight - 1290kg
Wheels: 5-spoke alloy design Front Tyres - 215/45 ZR 18 Rear Tyres- 275/40 ZR 18
Brakes: Ventilated discs, 330mm diameter - all round.
Gearbox:Longitudinal with 6 gears and reverse, manual or electrohydraulic clutch system (F1-style).
Engine Type: 90� V8 Capacity 3586cc Bore/stroke 85x79mm 4 overhead cams with variable phasing, 5 valves per cylinder with variable intake geometry
Maximum Power: 400bhp @ 8500rpm
Performance: Maximum speed 190mph 0-60mph 4.5 seconds
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DaimlerChryslerNissan?
It may become a reality very soon. Industry analysts have already predicted that very few independent car manufacturers will see the new millenium. The latest news is a possible merger between the DaimlerChrysler giant and Nissan. Talks have been progressing since last year about an acquisition of a controlling stake in Nissan Diesel (trucks). However, our sources now report that Nissan may be open to a more serious bid - a possible stake in Nissan Motor Co. At least it would put an end to the tasteless Infiniti brand in the US!
S.O'
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