It's a gated shifter manual Ferrari weekend here at CICFS, thanks to the weather. We were about to write up a miserable Alfetta sedan project when a look outside at the bleak fall winter landscape led us to some more optimistic searches. Ferrari 360 Spider it is.

As far as 360 Spiders go, this example is the cream of the crop. We'll forgive the fender shields (too loud) for compensations such as the common Challenge Stradale rear grille, modular wheel option, and the Verde Zeltwig (green) paint with a tan top to boot. Someone with our sense of style must have ordered this machine.

Year: 2004
Model:  Ferrari
Engine: 3.6L V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage:  10,132 mi
Price: $114,777
Location: Boerne, TX

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Ferrari 360 Spider manual

Ferrari 360 Verde Zeltwig with 10132 Miles, for sale!

As with all 360s, maintenance is not the nightmare that once characterized longitudinal Ferrari V8 service. Through an access panel in the engine firewall, technicians can access the engine timing belts and serpentine belt, allowing for a reasonable 'major' service with the simple removal of the front seat(s). In light of the upsides - a Ferrari V8 powertrain mounted midship - we're inclined to accept the compromise.

With the disclaimer that we interest ourselves more with the mechanical and historical side of Italian cars, and less with following market prices, we will say that this example is priced a bit more fairly than we would expect. Expensive for 360, though it is, the rare color, 6-speed manual, and low mileage certainly command a premium, and in this case, it seems to be a fair one.

-Graham