1994 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta

The Ferrari F355 is a modern classic, so beautiful, so well-engineered and so well received that it marked the beginning of the end of the old-guard "Ferraristi' philosophy that the only "real" Ferraris were ones with 12-cylinder engines. The Ferrari F355 Berlinetta and Targa GTS burst onto the world stage in the spring of 1994. It had almost exactly the same dimensions as its predecessor the 348, yet it was virtually a new car, as its stunning coachwork indicated. Many hours of wind tunnel testing influenced the harmonious shape which incorporated an F1 style flat bottom with an air flow channel that generated enough down-force to offset any lift.

The longitudinally mounted 3496cc V8 had a stunning 380 horsepower at a spine tingling 8250 rpm. The gearbox now had six speeds with a new type of synchromesh that made it much easier to shift. New electronically adjustable shock absorbers varied their stiffness within milliseconds to suit the road surface. Around Ferrari's 1.86 mile Fiorano test track the 355 was two seconds a lap faster than the 12 cylinder 512 TR; that level of performance combined with its sensational shape made it a worldwide success story.

This particular Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, finished in the timeless Rosso Corsa with Crema interior, was delivered new on the 22/09/94 and as such is one of the desirable early models. It is presented in fantastic condition and shows just 46,000 miles. The car has remained in factory specification, having never received any modifications unlike so many of its counterparts. It even retains the original leather Ferrari tool case!

Meticulously maintained to Ferrari factory requirements since day one, the service book shows stamps from its all important 1000 miles service in 1994 right up to latest stamp in December 2012 for a major cambelt service. The cambelt service was undertaken by renowned marque specialist, Damax, who have looked after the car since 2003, as is supported by both the service book and various invoices in the history file.

Benefitting from having the wheels refurbished and a recently refreshed interior, the car is in overall excellent condition and presents very well indeed.

This particular car is a superb example of what is often considered one of Ferraris most underrated sports cars and, in the current market, surely one of the most affordable as well.