Driving the Ferrari 360 Modena.
I was fortunate to do just that a few days ago, drive a Ferrari 360. My employer organised a ‘track day’ for some 200 employees by way of reward for completing a major project. The event was held at the Rockingham Motor Speedway in Northamptonshire where I thoroughly enjoyed 5 or 6 laps of the 1.7 mile National Circuit.
My (I wish) Ferrari 360 Modena. Nice! |
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On the day, the cars were pre-assigned, so it was down to the luck of the draw as to which you got to drive, a Ferrari 360 (2 of), a Porsche 911 turbo (1) or an Aston Martin V8 Vantage (3 of). I was very much hoping I would get to drive the Ferrari and was mighty relieved when the organiser read from his list, “Dean, you’re in a Ferrari”. Result! |
Kitted out with my crash helmet for safety purposes it was a snug fit in the drivers seat but a quick adjustment to the seat and I was ready to go. A quick briefing from my instructor about the workings of the paddle shift (F1 style…nice) and I engaged first gear and we headed out onto the circuit. Joining the circuit, foot down, 2nd, 3rd…big V8 roaring behind me…brilliant!
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The 1.7 mile circuit runs clockwise and has a good mix of fast straight section, high speed corners and tight slower corners. There is also a very nice high speed right-left flick of the wheel chicane. The pulling power of the 400bhp V8 was incredible but more than that it’s the stopping power and grip that impressed me. Pouring on the power out of the corners, throwing it into tight turns at speed, braking very hard at times and not a hint of those fat tyres letting go. It really does give you the confidence to push hard. |
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National Circuit layout |
My 5 or 6 laps (I honestly lost count I was having so much fun) just flew by. The hardest part was just trying to learn from lap to lap how to make a better approach to each turn the next time around. The problem is that you’re so busy driving (and enjoying yourself) that you never really get to take account of just where you are on the circuit. The instructor was very ‘light touch’ with his advice but he really does help you to get the most from your short spell at the wheel. I was smiling to myself when he said to me, “there’s no need to brake there…trust me, I’ll tell you when you need to brake.” 
I’m sure with more laps I’d have soon been pushing even harder but sadly, all too soon it was time to head back to the parking area to hand over to the next lucky driver. The Ferrari 360 was a great car to drive and at slower speeds, very sedate and civilised. Out on the track though is where this car belongs and I feel privileged to have experienced a little of the automotive legend and racing pedigree that is Ferrari.