Ferrari 360 Modena Design

The 360 Modena is the 163rd Ferrari designed by Pininfarina. This helps explain the successful mix of innovative design elements and styling solutions inspired by classic Ferraris, such as the 268SP, the 250LM and Dino 246GT. The front is dominated by two large air intakes for the radiators. This solution is vital to the car's aerodynamics. The intakes channel air beneath the car's flat undertray to the two rear diffusers, providing ground effect, and the location reduces width and thus frontal area.

Air pressure increases downforce as speed rises and, at 180mph, there is an impressive 397lbs pressing down on the car, evenly distributed between the two axles. This result was achieved without ruining the lines of the car and it also enhances safety by increasing the "natural" steering load at speed. 5,400 hours of wind tunnel testing resulted in excellent Cd and CI figures without compromising the car's styling.

The distinctive rear-end treatment leaves the engine in full view beneath the rear window. The side aspect features a curvilinear waistline that runs from the edge of the front fender and goes all the way to the rear light clusters, its wedge conveying a sense of speed and control. The car’s finely balanced proportions initially disguise the fact that it is mid-engined, with both the passenger compartment and the powerplant set neatly between the two axles.