1997 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 with 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 a Formula One style flat bottom with channelled airflow generating enough downforce to offset any lift.The longitudinally mounted 3496cc V8 produced a stunning 374bhp at a spine tingling 8250rpm and the gearbox now had six speeds with a new type of synchromesh making changes so much smoother. 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 and, that level of performance combined with its sensational looks, made it a world wide success story.

This European specification manual gearbox, LHD, F355 Berlinetta is in outstanding condition having been carefully looked after and maintained throughout its life.

Showing a mere 45000kms (approx. 28,000mls), the car is accompanied by a detailed history file, and in 2013 underwent a major service which, of course, included the all important cam belt replacement. The service history is as follows.

7/7/97 - pdi - Garage de l'athénée Ferrari18/07/1997 - 1060kms - Garage de l'athénée Ferrari12/01/2000 - 7756kms - Garage de l'athénée Ferrari11/11/2002 - 21133kms - Garage de l'athénée Ferrari03/02/2004 - 28480kms - Garage de l'athénée Ferrari28/04/2005 - 38687kms - Garage Zenith Ferrari06/09/2013 - 41450kms - Sportgarage Ruch full belt service

This 355 is enhanced by subtle upgrades in the form of drilled disc brakes, a "Challenge" grill, a Tubi Exhaust and, as an added bonus, has been signed by legendary Ferrari Formula 1 driver René Arnoux.

Buyers are finally becoming aware just how useable and enjoyable these cars really are, so join the party quickly, as we all know what's happening to the prices of popular Ferraris.