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1998 Ferrari F355 Spider
VIN ZFFXR48A4W0111623
Rosso Corsa with Tan Leather

The F355 was a comprehensively re-engineered evolution of the 348 and the first project of Ferraris then new CEO, Luca di Montezemolo. Reportedly, he owned a 348 and lost a traffic light drag race with a Volkswagen Golf GTI, so when he returned to Ferrari as CEO (he previously ran the companys F1 program in the 1970s), his first item of business was to improve Ferraris mid-engined sports car, and thus the 355 project was born. The heart of the 355 is the engine, a masterpiece of natural aspiration, with a 107hp per liter specific output thanks to quad cams, five valves per cylinder, titanium connecting rods, dry sump lubrication, an 8500 RPM redline, and an 11:1 compression ratio. The 375hp powerplant transmitted power via a 6-speed gearbox, available with F1 actuation, or more desirably, a 6-speed gated shifter. The F355 employed a steel monocoque structure with tubular steel rear sub-frame and independent suspension with 18 inch wheels and Brembo brakes, all of which was clothed in beautiful yet aggressive Pininfarina bodywork. The changes over its predecessor were successful and the F355 delivered remarkable performance, including a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds and top speed of 185mph.

Among the many mechanical advances developed for the 355, Ferrari also integrated advanced wind tunnel testing to refine tail contours and intake ducting, underbody downforce assistance via a specialized chassis fairing, and numerous other improvements benefiting both high-speed stability and fuel consumption. Offered in coupe or spider configuration, the spider was, for the first time, fitted with an automatic convertible top, tailored with distinctive trailing sail panels. This specialized canvas top cleverly aided aerodynamic flow while also giving the car a strikingly purposeful stance when the top was up. F355 Spider production would run from 1995-1999 resulting in only 2,664 examples equipped with the desirable gated 6-speed manual gearbox.

This particular 355 Spider is a low mile 6-speed manual example, manufactured in January 1998 and sold to the first owner in Hewlett, New York on March 3, 1998. The car remained with the first owner until 2002 when it was sold with 8,032 miles. The second owner, also in New York, retained the car until 2005 when it had 9,180 miles. The third owner, also in New York, kept the car until it was sold to the fourth and current owner, who had the car delivered to his home in California in March 2007. Just prior to the sale, on February 21, 2007, the car was extensively serviced at Miller Motor Cars in Greenwich, Connecticut at 10,023 miles where it received warranty electrical work, left and right exhaust header replacements, exhaust gaskets, a new catalytic converter, all three catalytic control ECUs, and two new CV boots, totaling $8,984.05.

Over the course of its life, this F355 has been thoughtfully maintained including regular service performed over the past decade by Northern California Ferrari expert Patrick Ottis who performed an engine out belt service and chassis service in July 2008 at 12,022 miles. In October 2013 with 17,048 miles, Ottis performed a general service, oil change, replacement of sticky interior components, suspension and tire work, and headlight motor repair, totaling over $3,000. In December 2014 with 22,027 miles, Ottis performed an $11,000 engine out cam belt service, additionally addressing suspension, hoses, exhaust and the AC system while these various components were more easily accessible. In 2015 a new battery was installed and in May 2017 with 25,094 miles the car was extensively serviced at Autosport, GMP in Novato, CA including oil/filter change, brake fluid flush, the installation of a new catalytic converter, new O2 sensor, new exhaust seal, two new Michelin Pilot Super Sport front tires, four wheel alignment, and a successful smog inspection, totaling over $5,000. In addition, the windshield was recently replaced with a correct NOS piece, carefully sourced to maintain the correctness of the car.

Today, this 355 presents in very fine cosmetic condition, offering a crisp and nicely detailed appearance consistent with the 26,000 careful miles it has covered since new. Digital paint meter tests confirm the factory original Rosso Corsa paint on all metal panels with the possible exception of the front deck lid, which meters at 6 to 10 mils compared to 3 to 6 mils on the rest of the car. The paint is in excellent condition showing smooth gloss throughout and no significance surface marks. The front bumper cap has been nicely repainted to remedy parking scuffs, and the left side rocker panel cover has been replaced and correctly painted to match after being damaged. The glass, newly installed windshield, and all lighting are in excellent condition throughout. Trim and emblems are exceptionally well-preserved showing very nice color and finish in all respects. The doors, hood, and trunk all open and shut with confidence, displaying very nice factory fit and finish. The wheels are in excellent condition, accented by vivid red brake calipers and striking yellow Ferrari center caps. The Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires are in very good condition with the fronts being essentially new and rears still showing good tread remaining.

The interior of the car is in especially nice condition. The tan leather is supple and smooth with excellent surfacing, very good seat foam, and no significant scuffs or scratches of note beyond some of the typical light wear on the drivers seat bolster. The common sticky buttons problem has been permanently addressed in this car, with all components refinished except for the soft top release lever, which is sticky. The carpets are generally excellent, with light evidence of use on the carpeting in the drivers footwell but otherwise the interior has been very nicely maintained. The dashboard surfaces, instruments, and switches are all in excellent condition showing beautiful color and tight stitch lines. The leather surfaces including the center console, door panels, visors, and pillars are in excellent condition. The original radio is installed but not currently functional. In all, the interior is handsome and fresh with excellent fit and finish. The trunk area remains fresh as well, consistent with the rest of the car. Clearly the previous owners maintained this F355 with proper care and enthusiastic consideration both cosmetically and mechanically.

The engine and drivetrain are in excellent cosmetic condition. The factory air boxes, hoses, and intake plenums are nicely preserved and properly affixed with correct hardware. Hoses, fittings, and assorted under-hood components are in equally good condition. The undercarriage is clean and dry with no significant road rash showing on any of the aerodynamic chassis shields or surrounding components. There is no evidence of structural damage or significant structural repair. The clean aluminum engine and suspension castings further support the low mileage.

The car drives and shifts as expected with no hesitation in power and smooth shift action through all gears. The flat plane V8 makes magnificent visceral noises that encourage the driver to rev the car out. Cornering and road manners are quite nice, with a planted, grippy feel thanks to the modern tires and sophisticated chassis design to support the cars impressive top end performance. The overall look and feel of this car is remarkable considering that it is 20 years old, and the car has a crisp presentation that isnt always present in these cars. An inspection was recently performed and the only noted needs were new CV joint boots and a report that the motor and transmission mounts are still functioning but are showing age and should eventually be replaced.

A complete set of Ferrari supplied accessories accompany the car including tools and case, manual packet with leather cover, warranty book and owners manual, leather storage/carry case, Ferrari car cover and carry bag, convertible top boot and storage bag, tire inflator and storage case, and service records from the past ten years. Also included with the car is a Tubi exhaust system.

This low-mile, four-owner F355 Spider, presented with beautifully maintained finishes and solid service history, is ready to enjoy just as intended when originally delivered twenty years ago. The supple leather interior with stunning factory Rosso Corsa exterior, makes this Ferrari a captivating and desirable open performance sports car.