With the successful run of the Ferrari 348 coming to a close, it was time for the Maranello based company to design a successor to its mid engine V8 platform. The F355, as it would become to be known, was designed from the start to improve on some areas where the 348 was slightly lacking. The cars performance was increased significantly and some tweaks to both the chassis and the suspension were made, allowing for a much better ride especially at slow speeds. These changes produced a car that was much easier to live with on a day-to-day basis than its predecessor.

 

Besides being much more comfortable to drive, the F355 was also significantly more powerful then the 348 it replaced. Displacement for the F355 was increased slightly to 3.5 liters over the 348’s 3.4 liters. The biggest difference however came from the new 5 valve cylinder head. This new head design allowed for greatly improved intake efficiency, helping the F355 to produce 375-horse power at 8250 RPM’s and 268 lb-ft of torque at 6000 RPM’s. These figures propel the car to 60 MPH in a quick 4.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 183 MPH. At the time of its introduction in 1994 there were two models available: the Berlinetta coupe and the GTS targa version of which this specific car is an example of. The Spider convertible version was not introduced until 1995. In 1997 Ferrari offered their revolutionary F1 transmission for the first time in the Berlinetta coupe 355 F1 but due to the new technology, it had some slight flaws and the six-speed gated manual still remains the more desirable transmission choice.

 

The F355 GTS offered for sale here is finished in a stealthy combination of black exterior with a black interior. Examining the outside of the vehicle reveals that the paint shows fairly well but does present its age and overall could be considered presentable but with flaws. The removable targa top fits tightly and the rubber gaskets all appear to be in good order. The stock wheels have been replaced by a set of suitable two-piece wheels with a black face and chrome lip. The optional scuderia shields located on the fenders still proudly display the prancing horse emblem.

 

Upon inspection of the interior it is apparent that this car has been used and driven. The leather seats show signs of age and have significant creasing with one or two small tears in heavy usage areas. The bolsters are still tight and hug the body appropriately. There is a small crack located in the leather of the dash behind the steering wheel. The passenger side window regulator has come dislodged from the door. The carpets are still a dark shade of black and are in decent shape. The six speed gated shifter still shines, begging to let out that distinctive click given off from a spirited gear change.

 

This particular example is a European spec car, sold new in Europe, and imported into the United States in 2008. During its second ownership in 2009 it was involved in a minor incident, resulting in a small amount of right side damage, which was consequently fixed thoroughly and appropriately. It changed hands 3 more times before ending up with the current custodian, a Ferrari tech and enthusiast. In January of 2014, this F355 underwent a full engine out 30k major service. As a result, there is plenty of enjoyment left before the next 5-year/15,000 mile major service is due. During the recent service performed this 355 also had a clutch service completed, making this Ferrari entirely ready for spirited enjoyment.

 

This 355 has been used and driven and does show as such with normal wear for a Ferrari that has been utilized. The current mileage stands at 43,581 but the true mileage is unknown, as the odometer has stopped working. The fuel gauge will also need some attending to, as it has ceased working properly as well. Despite the couple of flaws this 355 presents, it is still a strong fully serviced driver and would truly make for an ideal track day candidate. This Ferrari F355 is truly ready to be aggressively enjoyed without the worry that may be placed on other examples.

 

 

 

Available Documentation: (Click on the links below to view the file)

 

• 30K Mile Service Receipt