Wanderlust

Tag: F355

  • Market Find: Former Michael Schumacher Ferrari F355 GTS

    Market Find: Former Michael Schumacher Ferrari F355 GTS

    What: 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS
    Color: Ferrari Blu Le Mans (blulemans; metallic UNI; 516/C; Ferrari)
    VIN: : ZFFXR42B000105416
    Mileage: 47,500 kilometers, 29,515 miles
    Estimated Price: Sealed Bid
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Netherlands
    Auction listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    F1 aficionados will tell you that Michael Schumacher left Benetton where he’d just logged his second (in a row) of seven career championships, relocating to a struggling Scuderia Ferrari in 1996. No doubt Maranello was ecstatic to have him, which is the timeframe that the very special F355 GTS you see here was produced.

    In period, the F355 was Ferrari’s newest model, which made the car a natural for their star new driver’s daily. Granted, this was Michael Schumacher, so this wasn’t your average Rosso Corsa over black leather F355. For Ferrari’s star new driver, this GTS was built in stunning Blu Le Mans metallic over Pelle Crema (A 3997) leather. The F355 was said to have been configured personally by Schumacher, who also made sure to spec in a 6-speed manual.

    The car has been in the same ownership for the last 20 years. Check out the full description by RM Sotheby’s below, as well as with even more photos via the link above.

    1996 Ferrari F355 GTS 

    • Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher’s former F355 GTS
    • Offered from over twenty years of single enthusiast ownership
    • Featured in numerous publications highlighting its Schumacher connection including Forza, Ferrari World, and Auto Trends
    • Attractive colour scheme of Blu Le Mans over Pelle Crema leather
    • Ferrari Classiche Certified in 2020
    • Accompanied by its original manuals and service book, stating Weber Management GmbH as the original owner
    • Documented by a letter from Cavallari Monaco Motors confirming ownership as well as photographs of Schumacher driving the car

    [source: RM Sotheby’s]

    By 1995, it was clear to everyone in Formula 1 that Michael Schumacher was a generational talent, and perhaps a driver the likes of which the sport had never seen. After winning his maiden championship with Benetton in 1994, in a car that many believed to be undeserving of the championship itself, he followed up with a repeat championship in 1995. Nineteen ninety-six would be different, and Schumacher would be lured away from Benetton to the team every racing driver wanted to race for: Ferrari.

    Going into 1996, it was only fair that Ferrari gave their new driver a road car of his own to use and enjoy as he saw fit; the very F355 GTS offered here, allegedly the first Ferrari Michael Schumacher used whilst driving for the Scuderia. Introduced in 1995, it was the newest model in Ferrari’s lineup, a perfect fit for the team’s newest driver.

    Built in early 1996, Schumacher’s F355 GTS is beautifully finished in Blu Le Mans (516/C) with a painted roof over Pella Crema (A 3997) leather, a stark contrast to the fantastic V-10 powered cars painted Rosso Corsa that he drove on circuits around the world. Said to have been configured personally by Schumacher, perhaps the car’s most important feature was its traditional six-speed manual gearbox, rather than the optional Formula 1-style automated manual, offering the two-time world champion a change of pace from his day job.

    The car’s service book notes that it was delivered to Weber Management GmbH (the company of Michael Schumacher’s manager, Willi Weber) on 30 April 1996, and was delivered via Ferrari Deutschland GmbH in Wiesbaden. This would have been just two days after the European Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, where Schumacher finished second.

    It appears that the car was used by Schumacher at his residence in Monaco, as the car received its first service at Monaco Motors, the official Ferrari dealership in Monaco, on 5 May 1996, having already covered 1,639 km, and just in time for him to have present during that year’s Monaco Grand Prix. A letter on file from Monaco Motors, the Ferrari service centre for Monaco, confirms that the GTS belonged to Schumacher and was serviced at their facility for him until September 1997. An undated German newspaper clipping, on file in the historical documents, shows Schumacher driving the car in Monaco. Although it is not known how long Weber Management owned the F355 GTS nor how long it was used by Schumacher, the car came into the ownership of Pierre Valentin of Mougins, France in May of 2002 and later Christopher Allen of Vallauris.

    The F355 GTS was acquired by the current owner at auction in 2004 during that year’s Monaco Historic Grand Prix where it was being sold as Schumacher’s former personal vehicle. The current owner has very much used and enjoyed the car as its manufacturers intended. Believed to be the car’s third owner after Weber Management, he always had a soft spot for the F355 and purchased it due to its beautiful specifications and fascinating Schumacher history. Prior to the current owner’s acquisition, the back of the driver’s seat was signed by Schumacher, and upon his purchase the car was supplied by a letter from Monaco Motors, the official Ferrari dealership in Monaco, confirming that the car was serviced by them whilst in Schumacher’s care in September of 1997.

    According to the consignor, in his capacity as a motoring journalist following Formula 1 during the 2012 Belgian Grand Prix, he had the opportunity to approach Michael Schumacher when he was driving for Mercedes-AMG and asked him about his old F355 GTS. To his surprise, Schumacher instantly remembered the car when shown a photo, remarking that he was happy it found a new home with a true enthusiast.

    Not afraid to enjoy his new F355 GTS to the fullest, the car was driven straight home to Belgium from Monaco when purchased and has been used regularly by him, being driven simply for fun or to various car events in his native Belgium. It has been featured in three different magazine articles whilst in its current ownership: the November 2006 issue of Forza magazine, the March 2013 issue of the German magazine Ferrari World, and the June 2021 issue of Auto Trends Classic magazine, which was published in both Dutch and French. In 2017, the car won Best of Show at Spa Italia in Belgium. Minichamps even made a series of 1:43 scale models of this car in a display with Michael Schumacher as the background. Having been driven approximately 21,000 km prior to his purchase, the car is showing just under 47,500 km from new at the time of cataloguing.

    The car was granted Ferrari Classiche certification in 2020, confirming that it retains its original chassis, gearbox, bodywork, and is finished in its original colour combination. The Classiche certification also confirms that the car is no longer fitted with its original engine, but one of the correct type. Rumour has it that the car was equipped with an up-rated engine when delivered new to Michael Schumacher, but this has yet to be proven conclusively. The car was fitted with the current engine prior to the consignor’s purchase in 2004.

    Throughout its current ownership, the car has always been serviced by authorized Ferrari service centres and serviced as advised at regular intervals. Numerous invoices from its current ownership are on file, as well as invoices from Monaco Motors in 2002 and 2004 prior to its acquisition by the consignor. The F355 GTS’ last major service was carried out by F.M.A Ferrari in September 2024 and included fitting a new windscreen, new rear brake pads, timing belts, spark plugs, a new battery, and restoration of the dashboard.

    Unquestionably one of the greatest racing drivers in any discipline, Michael Schumacher heralded in a new age of dominance for Scuderia Ferrari in F1, returning the team to the top step of the podium in both the constructors’ and drivers’ championships. Likewise, the F355 is considered by many to be a watershed moment in Ferrari’s modern history, a truly fabulous driver’s car worthy of the Cavallino Rampante.

    Even when not considering its Schumacher connection, this is a fabulous example of one of Ferrari’s most desirable mid-engined sports cars, finished in a seldom-seen colour scheme, in the rare and desirable GTS body style, and equipped with the must-have option of a six-speed manual gearbox. Schumacher’s connection with the car only adds to its allure, and needless to say, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

  • Envoluto Arrives, Remastering Ferrari 355 with Focus on Peak Analogue

    Envoluto Arrives, Remastering Ferrari 355 with Focus on Peak Analogue

    [source: Envoluto]

    • Evoluto Automobili unveils the 355 by Evoluto®, a programme that reimagines the iconic 90s Italian supercar, combining advanced driving dynamics, state-of-the-art technology, and class re-defining engineering.
    • The 355 by Evoluto® has been reimagined to deliver a Peak Analogue® driving experience – serving as an antidote to the digital direction of modern supercars.
    • The 355 by Evoluto®, has been meticulously remastered through a re-engineering and development programme, typically reserved for major car brands and OEM’s. 
    • The 355 by Evoluto® features a 420hp high-revving naturally aspirated V8 engine, new engine management, and bespoke tuning, providing increased power, and response all the way to 8,500rpm.
    • Engineered in the UK by DRVN Advanced Engineering and designed by the world famous Ian Callum, the 355 by Evoluto® is more than a restoration, it boasts all new exterior carbon body with an entirely new interior and extensive options for customer personalisation.
    • The original car undergoes a comprehensive carbon fusing programme, improving torsional stiffness by 23%, resulting in enhanced driving dynamics and minimised body flex for vastly improved chassis composure.
    • Only 55 units of the 355 by Evoluto® will be commissioned, each tailored to the customers’ preferences. 
    • An exclusive launch event and preview is to be held at our private DRVN House during Goodwood Festival of Speed. The car will make its international debut at the world famous and prestigious Monterey Car Week in August 2024.

    Goodwood, UK – Evoluto Automobili is proud to introduce the new 355 by Evoluto®. Delivering a significant advancement in driving dynamics, light-weighting and engineering quality. The re-engineered Italian icon combines a Peak Analogue® driving experience with exceptional design, state-of-the-art technology, and indulgent luxury all brought together through an OEM standard engineering programme.

    The 355 by Evoluto® represents a new era in the realm of bringing automotive classics back to life, distinguishing itself through a design and re-engineering process usually reserved for an OEM-grade new product engineering programme, a first in this sector. With a level of sophistication typically reserved for major luxury automotive brands. This meticulous process ensures that every aspect of the 355 by Evoluto®—from its enhanced performance and reliability to its cutting-edge technology and luxurious design—meets the highest standards of quality and precision, setting a new benchmark for excellence. 

    Evoluto’s bespoke automotive services are applied to one of the most iconic supercars of the 90’s. Beginning with a customer-supplied Ferrari 355, serving as the donor car, each commission undergoes a personalised journey, meticulously disassembled to its core chassis, thoroughly assessed, cleaned, strengthened with carbon fusing, and prepared for the next stages of customisation.

    The enhancements honour the legacy of the legendary Italian supercar while integrating cutting-edge advancements that propel it into the future of high-emotion driving.

    Carbon Fusing – Remarkable Composure:  
    The 355 by Evoluto® is a ground up commission that begins with the core integrity of the donor chassis. Through an extensive torsional rigidity study, a comprehensive carbon fusing programme is implemented, achieving a remarkable 23% increase in overall torsional stiffness. This enhancement ensures that all critical hard points on the chassis are fortified and chassis flex is minimised, providing a robust foundation for the enhanced driving dynamics Evoluto® aimed to achieve.

    Performance – Elevated Power and 21st Century Reliability:
    The 355 by Evoluto® is engineered to offer an extraordinary blend of increased performance and 21st century reliability. The soul of the car is the naturally aspirated flat plane crank V8 engine, now delivering an impressive 420hp, revving up to 8,500rpm. With over 200 new and redesigned engine components, the thoroughly reworked powertrain provides increased power, response and 21stcentury reliability.

    Upgrades include an all new engine management system and Evoluto® bespoke tuning. Evoluto’s new coil-on-plug ignition solution improves performance by delivering precise ignition timing, stronger spark energy, increased fuel efficiency and 21st century reliability through direct control of each cylinder’s ignition. The result is an explosive throttle response and an enhanced connection between engine and driver.

    The original engine is distinguished by its use of a quill shaft; a notable feature that connects the engine to the transmission, enabling a more compact and efficient design. The upgraded engine enhances this concept with a proprietary Evoluto® designed quill shaft, which reduces vibration, provides 21st century reliability through thermal optimisation, and improves engine performance by a more efficient transfer of power.

    Furthermore, Evoluto’s fully CNC ported head with larger inlet valves enhances engine performance by improving airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to increased power output and better thermal management. These upgrades also contribute to 21st century reliability by reducing mechanical stress and ensuring consistent, high-quality performance.

    As one of the best sounding Italian supercars – Evoluto® has paid particular attention to both the acoustic and performance attributes of an all new light-weight titanium sports exhaust system. Equal length headers improve performance by ensuring exhaust gases from each cylinder arrive at the collector at evenly spaced intervals, enhancing exhaust flow and reducing back pressure. This leads to more consistent cylinder pressure, balanced power output, and improved engine breathing. The result is increased horsepower and torque, especially at higher RPMs, along with optimised engine tuning and an emotional acoustic profile.

    Additionally, Evoluto® has developed solid cam lifters coupled to a bespoke inlet camshaft, that increase performance by enabling higher RPM stability and delivering precise, consistent power. This enhancement further increases power output and responsiveness and the ability to fine-tune the engine’s performance to match Evoluto’s target driving characteristics.

    The engine enhancements are designed not just for more power, but also to deliver 21st century reliability, making the car both a joy to drive and a reliable companion on any journey. 

    Optimised Weight and Handling:
    With a target weight of 1250kg, the 355 by Evoluto® promises exceptional agility and responsiveness. Each donor Ferrari 355 is subject to extensive strengthening of the chassis through strategic application of carbon bracing and fusing in key areas of the platform. Additionally, the carbon fibre body panels significantly reduce weight while enhancing stiffness, contributing to the 23% improvement in torsional rigidity. The material choice ensures hard points critical to the vehicle’s dynamics and suspension tuning are improved for enhanced handling and stability.

    New Electronic Architecture:
    The 355 by Evoluto® features an entirely new wiring and electronic architecture developed in-house, this comprehensive overhaul of the wiring harness delivers numerous benefits, including 21stcentury reliability and improved performance. The Evoluto® proprietary design ensures optimal power distribution and communication between the car’s systems, reducing the risk of electrical failures and increasing overall efficiency. Additionally, the streamlined architecture simplifies maintenance and upgrades, offering easier access for diagnostics and repairs.

    Reworked Transmission and Advanced Braking:
    In-line with targeting the ‘Peak Analogue®’ driving experience, the importance of transmission refinement, weight, and feel was paramount in the development of the Evoluto® driving experience. Particular focus was applied to the tactility of the reworked 6-speed manual gearbox, intended to make every gear shift an occasion, delivering an engaging connection between car and driver while offering precise control over the car’s performance.

    As standard, Brembo GT 6 Piston slotted discs are fitted at the front with 4 piston callipers at the rear together with uprated Brembo pads, lines and performance fluids. Optional carbon CCMR brakes are available offering stunning stopping power and minimise brake fade, ensuring consistent performance even under the most demanding conditions. These upgrades ensure the 355 by Evoluto® can handle the increased power and speed with confidence while contributing to performance closer in line with contemporary supercars.

    Wheels and Tyres – Grip and Slip:
    During the development of the car, one of the most crucial attributes was maintaining a playful nature. It was essential to have enough grip in reserve to instil confidence when driving at high speeds, while also allowing the ability to break traction and explore the dynamics of the revised chassis in environments suitable for sliding. Therefore, the choice of wheel and tire size, along with the tire compound and purpose, was imperative. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires were selected for their road-biased compound, fitted to custom forged alloys—19 inches at the front and rear, 235/35/19 and 305/30/19 fitment, respectively. The result is an ideal balance of speed and playfulness, providing maximum enjoyment in all conditions.

    Bolder by Design:
    The interior and exterior of the 355 by Evoluto® is created by famed design team at Callum Designs. True to the original ethos of the iconic Italian supercar, the exterior design is a balanced expression of power and beauty, integrating the heritage of the classic Ferrari 355 while showcasing proportions suggestive of a modern interpretation of the icon supercar. 

    The remastered design features a more muscular physique to signify the power that lies beneath, with an increase in track width enhancing its stance. The all-new front-end design includes larger and deeper cooling intakes and a re-shaped front splitter, framed by new LED pop-up headlights with a distinctive new DRL signature and intricate surface detailing. The wide-track stance is complemented by standard-fit 19-inch forged alloy wheels at the front and 19-inch at the rear, new wing mirrors improve the aerodynamic profile of the car, while new flush-fitting door release mechanisms welcome occupants into the ultra-luxurious cabin.

    For customers looking to put their own stamp on the 355 by Evoluto®, endless possibilities for personalisation are available. Customers are invited to take a unique personal commissioning journey, from selecting distinguishing details to custom paint and interior options. The Evoluto®  design team offers endless possibilities to create a true one-of-a-kind commission.

    Interior Craftsmanship and Technology:
    The interior of the 355 by Evoluto® blends timeless design with modern luxury. Owners can personalise their vehicle with bespoke paint, leather, and material finishes, creating a driving environment that is both immersive and intuitive. The state-of-the-art interior design focuses on a driver-centric cockpit, seamlessly integrating modern technology with luxury craftsmanship and materials.

    Further Comments:
    Ian Callum, renowned designer of the Peak Analogue®, 355 by Evoluto®, states: “Creating a special and updated version of such an iconic car such as the 355 is challenging. It requires total understanding of the boundaries of change. However, the team at CALLUM enjoyed bringing together new forms and details to produce a beautiful design, while fully respecting the original.”

    Darren McDermott, Executive Chair, DRVN Automotive Group, notes: “This is an exciting time for the DRVN automotive group. The Peak Analogue®, 355 by Evoluto® programme not only honours the classic legacy of an iconic Italian supercar but also offers our customers a unique journey of personalisation for each commission.”

    Amjad Ali, Technical Director of Evoluto Automobili “The 355 was iconic in 1995, now 30 years later, we’ve re-engineered it to OEM standards, utilizing contemporary technology and materials to create a car that comes alive when driven hard. In a world dominated by turbochargers, hybrids, electronic gears, and multi-stage dampers, Evoluto’s Peak Analogue® philosophy breathes new life into this classic 355, delivering an engaging driving experience that’s unparalleled today.”

    As Technical Director at GuntherWerks for 7 years, Amjad carved out a niche in the automotive world by blending classic car aesthetics with modern performance and technology.

    His philosophy at GuntherWerks revolved around maintaining the soul of the classic 911 while incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and drivability. This positioned GuntherWerks as one of the leaders in the restomod segment, influencing trends and standards in the customization of classic cars.

    Amjad’s personal passion for cars, drives his dedication to creating vehicles that honour the heritage of the brand while pushing the boundaries of what these cars can achieve. 

    Price & Availability:
    Each restoration is unique, tailored to the owner’s specific preferences and requirements. Prices for Evoluto’s restoration services vary based on these individual requests. To ensure exclusivity, only 55 units of the Peak Analogue®, 355 by Evoluto® will be commissioned, each supported by a concierge-level customer journey

    In Public:
    For those eager to witness the Peak Analogue®, 355 by Evoluto® in person, apply to attend the launch of the car at a private preview during the Festival of Speed in the UK from July 11-14 2024, or Monterey Car Week in Northern California in August 2024. 

    Further information available at www.evolutoautomobili.com

    ENDS

    About Evoluto Automobili
    Evoluto Automobili is a leading innovator in the luxury automotive sector, dedicated to the meticulous restoration and modernisation of iconic supercars through Tier 1 engineering, typically reserved for major automotive brands. With a focus on combining advanced engineering techniques and cutting-edge technology, Evoluto transforms classic vehicles into exclusive restomods that offer unparalleled performance and timeless design. At the heart of Evoluto’s ethos is the commitment to creating a peak analogue driving experience, ensuring that each vehicle not only preserves the essence of its heritage but also delivers an engaging and immersive driving experience. Each project undertaken by Evoluto is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and the celebration of automotive heritage. Based in the United Kingdom, Evoluto caters to discerning enthusiasts worldwide, delivering bespoke automotive experiences that honour the legacy of legendary automobiles while embracing the future of high-performance driving.

    About DRVN Automotive Group
    DRVN Automotive is a premier group in the luxury automotive sector, specialising in the design, manufacture, and distribution of performance vehicles. With state-of-the-art facilities in Scotland, Durham, Coventry, and London, DRVN unites a comprehensive ecosystem of companies, including Boreham Motorworks, Koenigsegg London, DRVN Advanced Engineering, Evolution E-types, JE MotorWorks, ITG (Induction Technology Group) and Alan Mann Racing. These companies excel in various specialties, ranging from design and consultancy for major automotive brands to high-performance air filters, classic car restorations, engine development, and race car design, build, and management.

    Committed to delivering a peak analogue driving experience, DRVN Automotive blends classic automotive heritage with contemporary advancements. Their comprehensive in-house capabilities ensure sector-leading quality and precision, making their offerings synonymous with excellence and reliability.

  • ‘Holy Grail’ Specification Ferrari F355 Now Available at Bell Sport & Classic

    ‘Holy Grail’ Specification Ferrari F355 Now Available at Bell Sport & Classic

    • Outstanding 1995 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, originally owned by acclaimed musician Chris Rea offered for sale by Ferrari marque experts, Bell Sport & Classic
    • Understood to be a unique “1 of 1” car finished in Blu Scuro Micalizzato
    • Iconic model poised to turn 30 years old and achieve genuine classic Ferrari status
    • ‘Holy grail’ specification most sought-after by collectors: six-speed manual, early ‘2.7 Motronic’ Berlinetta, non-airbag, finished in Blu Scuro Micalizzato over Crema
    • Comprehensively refreshed by Bell Sport & Classic’s sector-leading technical team, led by former-Maranello personnel who worked on such cars in period
    • Reaffirms Bell Sport & Classic’s status as the leading destination for classic and modern Ferraris

    [source: Bell Sport & Classic]

    Markyate, Hertfordshire, UK – Bell Sport & Classic brings to market what is perhaps the world’s finest example of the iconic Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, presented in exceptional condition and ‘holy grail’ collector specification, previously owned by musician and Ferrari aficionado Chris Rea.

    The exceptional example is offered for sale by the world-leading Ferrari specialists, just as enthusiasts prepare to celebrate the 355’s 30th anniversary, with the model joining the rarefied ranks of bona fide Maranello classics.

    A highly collectable early-production run F355 Berlinetta, the car presents in superb condition after a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic refresh by Bell Sport & Classic’s renowned specialist Ferrari technical team, which is led by former Maranello factory personnel.

    Tim Kearns, Managing Director, Bell Sport & Classic, said: “We’re proud to offer this ultra-desirable example of the Ferrari F355. This sale represents a rare opportunity to acquire the 355 everyone wants: an early right-hand drive, ‘2.7 Motronic’, non-airbag, manual Berlinetta in a timeless specification. The model also has a compelling backstory, purchased new by noted Ferrari collector, Chris Rea. 

    “This 355 represents the ‘holy grail’ for Ferrari collectors– a useable example of Maranello’s mid-engined masterpiece, in its purest, most intoxicating form. In terms of design, technical innovation, performance, and handling, the F355 easily eclipsed the competition when it was launched and still offers a beguiling and wholly immersive driving experience today. As the F355 reaches its 30th anniversary, it also represents an astute investment.”

    The F355 Backstory
    Introduced at the 1994 Geneva International Motor Show, the F355 made an immediate impact on media, Ferrari owners and the public alike. A replacement for the somewhat underwhelming 348, the F355 was a true game changer; a harder-hitting, more modern mid-engined Ferrari that was just as wonderful to drive as it was to look at.

    Kearns, comments: “As the F355 reaches this landmark anniversary, now is the perfect time to take stock of just what a significant car it was for Ferrari. The F355 holds a special place in the marque’s history, emerging at a crucial moment for the brand, signalling the return of Ferrari technical, design and sheer driver engagement dominance after a period, some would argue, of drift and mediocrity. 

    “The F355 is highly significant: the car that the then new CEO Luca di Montezemolo delivered to bring the passion back to Ferrari, and the last of the truly hand-built V8 Ferraris. For many, the model represents a high-point for the marque – particularly in its early and purest form. It offers the perfect blend of old and new, combining contemporary performance with captivating analogue character – all wrapped up in a beautifully proportioned Pininfarina body. As a package, it really is hard to resist.”

    At the F355’s heart as with all Ferraris, is the engine, a flat plane crank V8 masterpiece. An engineering tour de force which, at the time of the car’s debut, delivered the highest specific output of any road car (107bhp per litre) – eclipsing even the mighty BMW V12 of the McLaren F1. With titanium con-rods, and five valves per cylinder, hugely innovative technology inspired by Ferrari’s Formula One programme, the F129B engine produced 375bhp at a heady 8250rpm – all from just 3.5 litres of displacement. So proud was Ferrari of this F1-inspired engine that the F355 Berlinetta’s model name unusually comes from a combination displacement and the number of valves per cylinder – ‘3.5 5’.

    With the ability to surge to 62mph in a mere 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 184mph, the performance of the F355 was in a different league to not just that of the 312bhp 348 that preceded it, but also contemporary rivals such as the Honda NSX, Lotus Esprit and Porsche 911 993.

    The chassis of the Ferrari F355 was equally important to the car’s phenomenal performance, offering nimble mid-engined handling. Double wishbone suspension, electronically adjustable, two-stage dampers and hydraulic power steering lent a dash of modern sophistication to the classic Italian supercar recipe. Compared to its predecessor it was faster, safer, more comfortable, and genuinely a car that could be used daily, whether charging up the Col de Turini or commuting into the city.

    The F355 was, as Autocar concluded in its 1994 road test, “a landmark car”, while Jeremy Clarkson hailed the 355 as “The greatest car in the world, ever”. It’s a car that only looks more significant as the years go by.

    Kearns adds: “The F355 Berlinetta’s game changing technical innovations, higher production volumes and overall bandwidth paved the way for successive Ferrari models to be truly great cars. One could argue that it’s the most significant car in Ferrari’s history. With almost 30 years to reflect on the car’s impact, the 355 is ready to assume genuine classic status as it reaches this landmark anniversary.”

    The ex-Chris Rea F355
    This original, right-hand drive UK car offered by Bell Sport & Classic was ordered new by musician Chris Rea, a well-known and highly regarded Ferrari enthusiast, via Maranello Sales. An early 1995 example, it features the desirable Bosh ‘2.7 Motronic’ ECU system, which improved throttle response and was also rumoured to offer more power – as much as 30bhp, according to some experts. As a sought-after non-airbag car, this example also sports the more driver-focussed Momo steering wheel, lending the cabin a clean and timeless look.

    Specified in the rare colour of Blu Scuro Micalizzato over Crema hide with Blu carpets, the car covered just 25,500 miles before being the subject of a comprehensive refresh by Bell’s team of sector-leading experts, at its state-of-the-art Hertfordshire facility. Bell Sport & Classic is renowned worldwide for its peerless restoration and refurbishment expertise, with a technical team of Ferrari trained experts, who worked on F355s in period. In recent years, the company has garnered international acclaim for numerous Ferrari projects including the sensational remastering of a 330 LMB, an extraordinary nut-and-bolt restoration of both an ultra-rare, L-Series 246 Dino GT and a Concours winning Ferrari 330 GTC.

    As with all cars the company offers for sale, Bell Sport & Classic’s technicians have gone through this F355 from top to bottom. Their approach ensures that the car is in exceptional mechanical condition. The same care has been lavished on the F355 cosmetically, both inside and out, with paintwork brought up to the very highest standards in its original Ferrari factory colour, reconolisation of the beautiful cream leather interior, and the crucial refresh of all switchgear, so often the Achilles’ heel of cars from this era.

    Kearns concludes: “At Bell Sport and Classic we’re accustomed to handling and restoring the very finest Ferraris, from the ‘60s classics right up to the contemporary hypercars. This F355 ranks among the best we’ve encountered. The team has, as ever, put everything into the painstaking recommissioning process, and the results speak for themselves. This F355 is the perfect example of a truly great Ferrari, one that can hold its own in the world’s most exclusive collections. Now presenting in perfect condition, this unmodified example of an iconic model, in the ultimate specification with a compelling backstory, is ready to be enjoyed by its new owner.”

    About Bell Sport & Classic
    Bell Sport & Classic is a team of experts who have come together to provide customers unrivalled expertise across the sales, service and restoration of the world’s most revered classic and modern classic cars, specialising primarily in notable Ferraris.

    Authenticity, originality, and quality are the bedrocks of the business; Bell Sport & Classic prides itself on sourcing the ultimate in collector cars and bringing new standards to classic car restorations. Bell Sport & Classic stands apart in the classic car world as an innovator and leader in customer service.

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