Description

The Ferrari F355 Berlinetta was introduced in 1994 as the successor to the 348 GTB, representing a major leap forward in performance, refinement, and technology for Ferrari’s mid-engined V8 lineup. The “Berlinetta” designation denoted the fixed-roof coupe body style, and it was the first variant of the F355 to be launched, later joined by the GTS targa and Spider convertible.

At the heart of the F355 Berlinetta was a 3,495 cc 90-degree V8 engine with five valves per cylinder — a first for a Ferrari road car. Equipped with Bosch Motronic engine management and titanium connecting rods, it produced 380 horsepower at a thrilling 8,250 rpm, giving the car a specific output of 109 hp per liter. This was enough to propel it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 295 km/h. The engine’s character was as much about its sound as its speed, with the high-revving V8 delivering a spine-tingling note that became one of Ferrari’s most celebrated exhaust signatures.

Pininfarina’s design was both beautiful and functional, retaining the wedge-shaped mid-engine proportions but with smoother, more aerodynamic lines than the 348. Pop-up headlights, integrated bumpers, a deeper front spoiler, and large side intakes gave the car a purposeful yet elegant appearance. The bodywork was carefully shaped to reduce drag and improve stability at speed, aided by a flat undertray and a rear diffuser — technology influenced by Ferrari’s Formula One experience.

The F355 Berlinetta’s chassis featured significant updates over the 348, including a wider rear track, stiffer structure, and a completely redesigned suspension. The fully independent setup used electronically adjustable dampers, allowing drivers to select between comfort and sport settings. Braking was handled by large ventilated discs, and power steering was standard for the first time in a Ferrari mid-engined V8, making it more usable in everyday driving.

Inside, the Berlinetta offered a more refined and ergonomic cockpit than its predecessor, with higher-quality materials, improved seating comfort, and better visibility. Buyers could choose between a traditional gated six-speed manual gearbox or, from 1997 onward, Ferrari’s first road-going “F1” paddle-shift gearbox, bringing Formula One-style shifting to a production car.

The F355 Berlinetta remained in production until 1999 and is often regarded as one of Ferrari’s finest modern classics, striking a near-perfect balance between analog driving engagement and usable performance. Today, it is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its timeless design, technological significance, and unforgettable driving experience.