• Maranello-supplied, UK-specification with comprehensively documented service history
• Six-speed manual transmission with high-revving 3.5 litre V8
• Alpine stereo with Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• Favoured earlier Bosch Motronic engine management for sharper performance
• Major belts service only one hundred miles ago (December 2019)
• Fully stamped service book and three original keys with immobilisers

Inheriting the proportions of its predecessor, the F355 was outwardly a much better-resolved proposition, both aesthetically and aerodynamically. However, beneath the fabulous styling and smoother skin, were further major advancements, including power steering, variable damping, and a 100cc engine enlargement. The longitudinally mounted 3496cc V8 generated a market-leading 380 horsepower at a spine-tingling 8,250 rpm and the gearbox now had six speeds with a revised synchromesh making gear changes so much smoother. New electronically adjustable shock absorbers varied their stiffness within milliseconds to suit the road surface and the result of all these developments was evident around Ferrari's 1.86 mile Fiorano test track when the 355 was two seconds a lap faster than the 12-cylinder 512 TR.

The F355 Spider (most of us like Italian convertibles to be called Spyder, however, Ferrari have always insisted on Spider) debuted in 1995, its Pininfarina-penned lines honed by even more hours in the wind tunnel. To make up for the lack of a roof and the associated loss of torsional rigidity, the 355's structure was cleverly strengthened without making the Spider any heavier than the Berlinetta. Pininfarina is very experienced in designing convertible roofs for other manufacturers and their efforts here have resulted in a blend of elegant style and aerodynamic performance and, for the first time in a Ferrari, the semi-automatic soft-top was powered electronically. Initially, the Spider was fitted with the 6-speed manual transmission, prior to being offered with the innovative, electro-hydraulic F1 transmission, however, over time, it's become accepted that the manual box is that much more satisfying to use and that has tended to be reflected in the car's value.

Sitting on the cusp between analogue and digital, the 355 is considered the forerunner of all modern Ferraris and, as the last of the hand-built cars before the 360 and later descendants moved to mass production, will inevitably slip into the role of 'Classic Ferrari' with ease becoming increasingly sought after as time goes by.

This UK-supplied, RHD, F355 Spider was specified from the factory in Giallo Modena with Nero Connolly leather upholstery and a black fabric hood, all of which it retains. The engine runs on the earlier Bosch Motronic 2.7 engine management system with dual-mass air-flow meters, which is generally accepted as delivering more responsive performance and a sharper engine note.

First registered on 1 November 1995, it has evidently been well maintained throughout its life, with regular servicing carried out exclusively by Ferrari main dealers and independent specialists. Our vendor acquired the car in January 2017 and has invested around £18,000 since then on mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment with renowned Ferrari specialist, John Pogson’s Italia Autosport.

Today, the bodywork presents in good order, with no evidence of panel damage, with neat shut lines all around the car and the paintwork is impressive, having been the subject of a £1,300 detailing session. The finish has been resprayed either partially or wholly by a previous owner, and while it is not spotless, with some neatly touched-in stone chips and other minor blemishes, including bubbling on the driver’s sill cover, this is a smart example that still turns heads after nearly 25 years on the road.

It rides on the original 18-inch magnesium alloy wheels, which look superb, with no kerbing marks or scuffs in the paint. The black fabric soft top is in good order, showing no rips or tears, and with a fully working mechanism. Bidders should note that the leather tonneau cover has been misplaced, so is not included in the sale.

In the cabin, the black Connolly hide is still in great condition, with only minor wear and a few small scratches on the driver’s outer bolster, but in general, the leather presents well with good colour. Sticky plastics are a common issue with these cars, but the centre console switches and knobs are in good order, although the air vents would benefit from refinishing in the future. The trim all looks original with no puddling or slackness in the leather. The only known upgrade is an Alpine stereo head unit with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

The last scheduled maintenance was conducted in December 2019 at 34,220 miles (current mileage 34,230), when Ferrari specialist Italia Autosport carried out an annual service, oil change and inspection. Prior to this, in December 2018 at 34,185 miles, the same workshop carried out a major cambelt replacement service, with new cam oil seals, new auxiliary belts, and new hydraulic tensioners and bearings. The cam cover breather hoses were also replaced, along with the engine oil, oil filter, air filter and fuel filter. The water pump was last renewed during the 2016 service at Lancaster Ferrari. The most recent MOT test was on 18 December 2019 at 34,215 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with no advisories.

Accompanying the car is a complete book pack, including the owner’s manual and stamped service record, as well as numerous invoices that support the comprehensively documented maintenance history – and even the original purchase invoice. A full tool kit is also present, along with three sets of original keys and immobilisers.

Summary of service history:

15.12.1995 - Maranello Sales - 1,000 km Service - 451 miles

12.06.1997 - H.R. Owen - Annual Service - 1,364 miles

01.12.1997 - H.R. Owen - Major Service + Belts - 4,768 miles

29.05.1998 - H.R. Owen - Annual Service - 3,675 miles

31.07.1999 - MHT - Annual Service - 5,363 miles

01.08.2000 - Evans Halshaw - Annual Service - 9,015 miles

13.04.2001 - Evans Halshaw - Major Service + Belts - 10,848 miles

18.08.2003 - Joe Macari - Annual Service - 15,278 miles

02.12.2005 - Joe Macari - Annual Service - 19,814 miles

31.05.2006 - Meridien Modena - Major Service + Belts - 20,200 miles

02.11.2006 - Cortese Ferrari - Major Service + Belts - 21,338 miles

02.04.2009 - QV London - Annual Service - 26,012 miles

04.07.2011 - Lancaster Ferrari - Major Service + Belts - 26,778 miles

06.08.2013 - Lancaster Ferrari - Annual Service - 29,106 miles

11.05.2015 - Lancaster Ferrari - Annual Service - 29,769 miles

13.04.2016 - Lancaster Ferrari - Major Service + Cambelts - 30,295 miles

01.02.2017 - Italia Autosport - Annual Service - 30,837 miles

17.12.2018 - Italia Autosport - Major Service + Cambelts - 34,185 miles

18.12.2019 - Italia Autosport - Annual Service - 34,220 miles

This lovely example presents in a great factory colour, with low mileage, a very well-documented service history, and is now ready to be enjoyed by its next lucky owner.