So it has been just over a year now since I bought my first Ferrari 360 Modena. There have been highs and lows, it’s been fun yet stressful, and I have learnt a great deal and met many wonderful people. I probably over estimated the number of events I would attend, when I was initially pondering my first spring/summer with the 360—dreaming of joining in with all of the picnics and being on display at every car show—but I have been able to show all of my friends and family, and perhaps more importantly: just getting used to driving a Ferrari on the road.
I’m a lot less nervous whenever I set off wherever I’m going, but still cautious if I have to drive into a town centre; I still feel proud and enthusiastic if someone stops to take a photograph or compliment how lovely she is (just don’t start on about whether she’s real or how I’d be better-off financially with a more economical car or some other rubbish!); and I am still impressed and excited every time I see another owner enjoying their Ferrari, even if I’m just walking down the street—despite owning one, the allure and mystique of Ferrari’s still exists. This seems to hold true for other owners too; whenever someone pulls up in their Ferrari (whether we’re at a show or just out for lunch) everyone descends upon the new arrival to not only see who it is but also what colour their interior is, if they have a traditional manual, whether their exhaust has been loudened, et cetera. We’re just as curious—if not more so—than non owners, maybe because we know what to look for but more likely because it’s clear we’re already Ferrari enthusiasts.
Now with the insurance paid up for another year, an MOT passed with flying colours, and a service scheduled for the coming weeks, not to mention the upcoming renewal of my Ferrari Owners Club GB membership, I’ve started thinking about 2016: where could we go? (Le Mans? A Grand Prix? The Italian lakes?) We’ll see, I have a few months to plan these things out and see who might be interested in coming along for the ride, but for the time being the 360 is tucked away and having a well earned rest.
