Description
The Ferrari F355 Berlinetta Challenge was a track-focused variant of the standard F355 Berlinetta, developed specifically for the Ferrari Challenge one-make racing series. Introduced in 1995, it followed the tradition of earlier Challenge models like the 348 Challenge, allowing customers to race a purpose-built Ferrari in an official factory-supported championship.
The F355 Challenge began life as a standard F355 Berlinetta, either purchased new or converted from an existing road car, with modifications installed by authorized Ferrari dealers. These changes were designed to make the car more competitive on track while keeping it mechanically close to the production model. Key upgrades included a full roll cage, six-point harnesses, a fire suppression system, and racing seats for increased driver safety. Weight was reduced by removing non-essential interior trim, sound insulation, and other comfort features.
Mechanically, the car retained the 3,495 cc 90-degree V8 with five valves per cylinder, producing 380 horsepower at 8,250 rpm, paired with a six-speed gated manual transmission. While the engine was unmodified, the Challenge received significant chassis and braking upgrades. These included competition suspension components, stiffer springs, larger Brembo brakes, and lightweight 18-inch Speedline wheels fitted with slick or semi-slick tires. An uprated exhaust system was also fitted, improving both performance and sound.
The exterior of the F355 Challenge was largely unchanged from the road-going Berlinetta, though cars were often fitted with lightweight plexiglass windows, tow hooks, and sponsor decals. Aerodynamic modifications were minimal, as the series emphasized driver skill over heavy reliance on downforce.
Only around 108 examples of the F355 Challenge were produced worldwide between 1995 and 1999, making it a rare sight today. Most were kept as dedicated track cars, though some have since been converted for road use. The F355 Berlinetta Challenge is now highly prized by collectors and racing enthusiasts alike for its raw, analog driving experience and its role in continuing Ferrari’s celebrated customer racing tradition.
If you’d like, I can also detail the racing history and technical specifications of the F355 Challenge series itself, including its performance in Ferrari’s single-make championships.