by Bengt Halvorson

(2003-09-01)

575M

The 575M, an evolution of the 550 Maranello, offers a 515-hp, 5.75-liter V-12 mounted in front, with power sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Ferrari's F1-style electro-hydraulic control for the six-speed is optional, and it includes a fully automatic mode. Add huge brakes and an adjustable adaptive suspension that controls each wheel separately. The 575M is capable of reaching 202 mph, earning membership in an elite group of supercars.

456M

The Pininfarina-shaped 456M grand touring coupe, with its top speed of 186 mph and 5.1-second time to 60 mph, is the most practical and comfortable in Ferrari's stable. The appropriately termed 2+2 has two small seats in back good only for short use. The lavish sport coupe features a 436-hp, 5.5-liter V-12 engine mounted in front. A rear-mounted six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a conventional automatic transmission is optional.

360 MODENA/SPYDER

Ferrari's most affordable sports car, the mid-engined 360, comes either as a traditional coupe or as an open-air softtop. Power is provided by a sonorous 400-hp, 3.6-liter V-8, mounted just behind the seats, delivered to the wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox or the F1 electro-hydraulic (through up/down shift paddles) six-speed, which has a fully automatic mode. Standard equipment also includes huge 13-inch brakes, an electronic adjustable suspension, and a stability control system that can be switched to a 'sport' mode or turned off.