Ferrari F355 Price, Horsepower And Engine Specs
The Ferrari F355, launched in 1994, is a highlight of Ferrari’s mid-engine sports cars. Known for its eye-catching design and advanced features, it packs a powerful V8 engine and effective aerodynamics for top-notch performance and handling. In this review, we will cover the F355’s capabilities, design, and driving experience, showing why it’s still a favorite among car enthusiasts and an important part of Ferrari’s history.
A Complete Ferrari F355 Review
The Ferrari F355 is a celebrated model in the illustrious line of Ferrari sports cars, launched in 1994 and produced until 1999. It succeeded the 348 and introduced a level of performance and refinement that marked a significant evolution in Ferrari’s V8 mid-engine series. Here’s a detailed review of the Ferrari F355, covering various aspects from design to performance and legacy.
1. History and Evolution of the Ferrari F355
The Ferrari F355, codenamed F129, is a mid-engine sports car that marked a significant turning point for Ferrari. Here’s a breakdown of its history and evolution:
Origins (Pre-F355):
- The F355 succeeded the Ferrari 348, a car known for its powerful engine but criticized for handling and overall performance.
- Introduced in 1990, the 348 was based on the Testarossa and inherited some of its design elements.
- With the rise of new competitors like the Honda NSX, Ferrari needed a more modern and competitive offering.
The Birth of the F355 (1994):
- Launched at the 1994 Geneva Motor Show, the F355 was a substantial upgrade over the 348.
- While it retained the basic steel monocoque chassis of its predecessor, the F355 received significant revisions.
- A new tubular subframe improved handling and facilitated easier maintenance.
- The heart of the beast was a new 3.5-liter V8 engine with five valves per cylinder, generating more power and a thrilling sound.
Evolution and Legacy (1994-1999):
- Throughout its production run, Ferrari offered several special edition F355 models with minor performance tweaks or cosmetic enhancements.
- The F355 was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its improved performance, handling, and overall driving experience compared to the 348.
- It established itself as a benchmark for mid-engine V8 sports cars and solidified Ferrari’s reputation for building driver-focused machines.
- The F355’s legacy continued with the introduction of its successor, the Ferrari 360, in 1999. The 360 was built upon the F355’s foundation, offering even more power and refinement.
Today, the Ferrari F355 remains a highly sought-after classic among collectors and enthusiasts. It represents a pivotal moment in Ferrari’s history, bridging the gap between the iconic yet challenging 80s models and the more refined and user-friendly Ferraris of the modern era.
2. Ferrari F355 Design and Aesthetics
Exterior Features
The F355’s exterior is marked by a harmonious blend of aggressive sporting lines and elegant contours, a significant evolution from its predecessor, the 348. The body was shaped with extensive wind tunnel testing, which not only refined its aesthetic but also optimized its aerodynamic efficiency. Key features include the sleek, low-profile stance accentuated by pop-up headlights and large air intakes that hint at its powerful engine.
The rear of the car is distinguished by a prominent grille and round taillights, a nod to Ferrari’s racing heritage. Its design also incorporates an underbody spoiler and a flat undercarriage to aid in high-speed stability, enhancing both function and form.
Interior Luxury
Inside, the Ferrari F355 boasts a cabin that combines sporty functionality with luxurious comfort. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including supple leather upholstery and accents of polished wood or carbon fiber, depending on the owner’s preference.
The driver-focused dashboard features ergonomically placed controls and classical analog dials that provide a clear and concise interface, blending traditional elements with modern technology. The seats are designed to provide support during spirited driving while also ensuring comfort on longer journeys, making the F355 both a race-ready vehicle and a grand tourer.
3. Ferrari F355 Variants
The Ferrari F355 was offered in three distinct body styles, each catering to a slightly different driving preference:
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Berlinetta (1994-1999): The quintessential F355, the Berlinetta is the fixed-roof coupe version. It offered a pure, focused driving experience and classic Ferrari styling.
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GTS (1995-1999): For those who desired open-air thrills, the GTS variant provided a removable hardtop roof. It offered a great balance between a coupe’s rigidity and a convertible’s freedom.
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Spider (1995-2001): Introduced a year after the GTS, the Spider was a full convertible with a folding soft top. It provided a more luxurious and relaxed driving experience compared to the other variants.
In addition to these core body styles, Ferrari also produced several limited edition F355 variants with unique features and performance tweaks. Here are a couple of noteworthy examples:
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Ferrari F355 Challenge: This track-focused variant was a homologation special built for participation in the Ferrari Challenge one-make racing series. It featured weight reduction measures, aerodynamic upgrades, and a more aggressive suspension setup.
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Ferrari F355 Fiorano: A limited edition variant named after Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, the Fiorano offered a more powerful engine, upgraded brakes, and a sharper handling package. It was essentially a road-legal version of the Challenge model.
4. Ferrari F355 Performance
Engine
The heart of the Ferrari F355’s performance is its 3.5-liter V8 engine, which was a significant evolution within Ferrari’s lineup. Notably, it featured a 5-valve per-cylinder design—three intake and two exhaust valves per cylinder—which was a pioneering move for Ferrari at the time. This configuration allowed for improved airflow into and out of the engine, enhancing combustion efficiency and power output.
Horsepower
This powerful engine was capable of delivering 375 horsepower at 8,250 RPM. The high rev limit not only contributed to a higher power output but also provided the F355 with a thrilling exhaust note that became a signature trait of the vehicle. This level of power ensured that the F355 remained competitive against its contemporaries and embodied Ferrari’s commitment to high-performance sports cars.
Acceleration
The F355’s acceleration is impressive, capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. This quick acceleration was a testament to its well-engineered powertrain and lightweight construction, making it one of the quickest cars of its era. The combination of a potent engine and refined aerodynamics provided the F355 with explosive off-the-line performance and nimble handling.
Top Speed
With a top speed of approximately 183 mph (295 km/h), the Ferrari F355 was among the fastest cars available in the mid-1990s. This top speed demonstrated not just the raw power of the engine but also the effectiveness of its aerodynamic design, which allowed the car to remain stable and composed at high speeds.
5. Ferrari F355 Price
The Ferrari F355 was a premium sports car with pricing that reflected its high-performance capabilities and luxury status when it was new in the mid-1990s. While the original prices varied by market and optional features, here’s an overview of what you might have expected:
Original Pricing
- F355 Berlinetta: Initially, the coupe version was priced at around $130,000 in the United States.
- F355 Spider: The convertible variant typically commanded a premium, with prices starting at approximately $137,000.
- F355 GTS: The GTS, with its targa-style top, was priced similarly to the Spider, slightly higher than the Berlinetta due to its added versatility.
These prices could increase significantly with the addition of optional features such as the F1-style electro-hydraulic manual transmission, special paint colors, and custom interior finishes.
Current Market Prices
Today, the Ferrari F355 is a sought-after classic, and its value in the collector market can vary widely based on condition, mileage, history, and specific model. Generally, well-maintained examples can range from:
- $70,000 to $100,000 for a Berlinetta with higher miles or less desirable specifications.
- $90,000 to $120,000 for a GTS in good condition.
- $100,000 to $150,000 and up for a Spider, especially if it is in excellent condition or features low mileage.
Special editions or particularly well-documented cars with a significant history (such as those owned by notable individuals or featuring unique customizations) can fetch higher prices.
6. Technical Specifications of the Ferrari F355
- Engine Type: 3.5-liter DOHC V8
- Configuration: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
- Valvetrain: 5 valves per cylinder (three intake, two exhaust)
- Displacement: 3,495 cc
- Compression Ratio: 11:1
- Maximum Power: 375 horsepower at 8,250 RPM
- Maximum Torque: 268 lb-ft at 6,000 RPM
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): Approximately 4.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 183 mph (295 km/h)
- Standard: 6-speed manual gearbox
- Optional: F1-style electro-hydraulic manual transmission
- Length: 4,250 mm
- Width: 1,900 mm
- Height: 1,170 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,450 mm
- Curb Weight: Approximately 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs)
- Frame: Steel monocoque with tubular steel rear subframe
- Front Suspension: Independent double wishbones, coil springs, anti-roll bar, and telescopic shock absorbers
- Rear Suspension: Independent double wishbones, coil springs, anti-roll bar, and telescopic shock absorbers
- Type: Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels
- Assistance: ABS as standard equipment
- Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels
- Tires: Front 225/40 ZR18, Rear 265/40 ZR18
- Features: Underbody spoiler and innovative aerodynamic design to enhance stability at high speeds.
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 82 liters
- Standard: Dual front airbags, side impact beams, and ABS.
7. Pros and Cons Of Owning a Ferrari F355
Owning a Ferrari F355 is an exciting prospect, but it comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right car for you:
Pros:
- Thrilling Performance: The F355 boasts a powerful and responsive 3.5L V8 engine delivering an exhilarating driving experience. Its agile handling makes it a joy to take on winding roads.
- Investment Potential: Classic Ferraris like the F355 tend to hold or even appreciate in value, making them potential investments alongside being collector’s items.
- Head-Turning Design: Pininfarina’s iconic design for the F355 is timeless and elegant. It’s guaranteed to draw attention wherever you go.
- Rich History: Owning a piece of Ferrari’s heritage is something many car enthusiasts dream of. The F355 represents a significant turning point in the brand’s history.
- Multiple Variants: With Berlinetta, GTS, and Spider options, you can choose the F355 that best suits your driving style, whether you crave a pure coupe experience or the freedom of a convertible.
Cons:
- High Maintenance Costs: Keeping a Ferrari running smoothly requires specialized mechanics and expensive parts. Regular maintenance and potential repairs can be a significant financial burden.
- Limited Comfort: Compared to modern cars, the F355 has a stiffer ride and a cramped interior. It prioritizes performance over creature comforts like spacious cabins and extensive amenities.
- Demanding Driving Experience: The F355 is a powerful car that requires a skilled driver to handle it at its limits. Modern features like traction control, widely available in contemporary cars, are absent.
- Not Ideal for Daily Driving: The F355’s stiff ride, low ground clearance, and lack of everyday amenities make it less suitable for daily commutes or errands.
- Finding the Right Example: The F355 is no longer in production, so finding a well-maintained example with a clean history can be challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes the Ferrari F355 unique?
The Ferrari F355 stands out due to its perfect mix of a powerful V8 engine, sleek aerodynamic design, and advanced handling dynamics. Coupled with unique features like removable Targa tops, the F355 offers a captivating fusion of style, heritage, and track-inspired performance.
2. Is the Ferrari F355 reliable?
The Ferrari F355 is generally reliable. It represents a new generation of Ferraris noted for dependability. However, like any car, reliability heavily depends on regular and proper maintenance, particularly due to potential issues in its fuel system.
3. How much did the Ferrari F355 cost when first released?
The base MSRP of a Ferrari F355 was about $120,000 when it was new. Nowadays, the price varies widely depending on the car’s condition and mileage.
4. How fast can a Ferrari F355 go?
This information was not provided in the article. However, specs from the period suggest a top speed of around 183 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds.
Hi! I’m Larry Gibbs, studying mechanical engineering with a focus on cars. I really love Ferraris and write blog posts about the latest car stuff. When not studying or blogging, I’m usually on a road trip exploring new places. I also enjoy playing football and watching movies. Life’s an adventure, and I’m all about enjoying the ride!
