Bonhams Cars : 1997 Ferrari F355 Spider Chassis no. ZFFXR48C000108843 Engine no. 46147 (2024)

• UK-delivered right-hand drive model
• Desirable manual gearbox
• Air conditioning
• Comprehensive Ferrari service history
• Last full service (including cam belts) in February 2024
• 13,842 miles from new

Launched in May 1994, the F355 effectively re-forged the reputation of Ferrari's V8 range, which had suffered since the introduction of the Mondial 'world car', widely considered far too sensible to be a 'proper' Ferrari. The F355, though, was cast in the mould of that great driver's car: the Dino 246 GT. Just how great an advance it was may be gauged from the fact that the F355's best time around Ferrari's Fiorano test track was three seconds quicker than the formidable 512TR's.

Despite its stupendous performance the F355 was no mere 'racer on the road' but a thoroughly modern automobile employing state-of-the-art technology in the form of computer-controlled variable suspension damping. A light-action clutch, proportional power-assisted steering, and driver's air bag were other features calculated to make the car reassuringly user-friendly.

The heart of the F355, though, was its phenomenal 3.5-litre V8 engine. Boasting four overhead camshafts and five valves per cylinder (a layout borrowed from Ferrari's Formula 1 engine), this remarkable unit produced 375bhp at 8,250rpm, with 268lb/ft of torque available from 5,000 to 6,500 revs. A transversely mounted six-speed manual gearbox ensured a sufficiency of ratios to keep the motor on the boil whatever the situation. Subsequently the F355 could be ordered with the F1-developed six-speed automated manual transmission.

A rare right-hand drive model, this F355 was delivered new to the UK and first registered on 21st April 1997. Finished in Rosso Corsa with Nero leather interior, the car has the enthusiasts'-choice manual transmission and was equipped from new with air conditioning, a stereo CD player, and black brake callipers. The current owner purchased the Ferrari at a UK auction in July 2019.

Currently showing 13,842 miles on the odometer, the car is described by our vendor as in generally excellent condition and comes with comprehensive Ferrari service history commencing with Maranello Sales in February 1998 at 5,774 miles. The most recent full service (including a change of cam belts) was carried out by Graypaul in February 2024 at 13,770 miles. It is also worthwhile noting that the 'sticky' switches were all refurbished by Sticky Switches in 2021. Accompanying documentation consists of a V5C Registration Certificate, MoT to 29th April 2024, and the aforementioned extensive service history.