Fantasy Junction

Description

1999 Ferrari F355 F1 Spider

VIN No. ZFFXR48A1X0115422

Blue with Burgundy Leather



Launched in the final decade of the twentieth century, the Ferrari F355 arrived as the replacement for the 348, capping 50 years of exemplary sports car performance from one of the greatest car companies in the world. The F355 ushered in a new era of performance, capturing the essence of mid-engine cars with the latest in technology. Sold from 1994-1999, the five-valve, quad-cam, 375 hp V8 transferred power via a gated 6-speed manual gearbox to rear wheel drive. By 1997, Ferrari introduced the world to the innovative F1 gearbox, making the F355 the first road car to have this amazing transmission. Though more common today, this novel system allowed shifts to be managed from paddles on the steering column which made for rapid shifts without removing your hands from the steering wheel. Engine development was also quite advanced including the use of titanium connecting rods, 11:1 compression, Bosch Motronic fuel injection, and dry sump oiling. In addition to the engine advances employed in the new F355, the steel monocoque structure with tubular steel rear sub-frame and independent suspension delivered remarkable track performance, besting contemporary competitors with impressive 0-60 times of 4.5 seconds and quarter mile times under 13 seconds.



Among the many mechanical advances developed for the 355, Ferrari integrated advanced aerodynamic refinements using sophisticated wind tunnel tests to refine tail contours and intake ducting, improved underbody downforce assistance via a specialized chassis fairing, and implemented numerous other improvements benefiting 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, also tested and refined for improved air flow and reduced high speed wind buffeting. F355 Spider production would run from 1995-1999 yielding a mere 1,127 examples equipped with the rare and innovative F1 gearbox.



This particular 355 Spider was sold new to the first owner via Ferrari of Houston on May 3, 1999. Uniquely optioned with the rare and desirable F1 gearbox, the car was also trimmed with beautiful burgundy leather interior, accented with blue stitching. On June 14, 2011 the current and consigning owner purchased the car from San Francisco Motorsports/Owner representative Doug Dolton. At the time of purchase, the car showed 19,260 miles which are believed to be original miles at that time. During the current ownership the car was carefully maintained and serviced, always stored indoors, and driven to various Ferrari Club of America Pacific Region events, two Concorso Italiano events (winning a Bronze concours trophy in 2017), and the Danville, CA Concours. During current ownership the car was exclusively serviced by John Heim, of San Francisco Motorsports, and later GMP Motorsports, both in Marin, CA, and Ferrari of San Francisco who performed the fuel block repair/recall work in 2014. In 2018 this 355 was the featured subject of the November ‘Forza’ edition comparing the 355 to the 430.



Documentation for the past nine years of ownership has been carefully prepared and sorted showing all mechanical services, invoices, and detailed notes on the history of this F1 Spider. Important service work by San Francisco Motorsports was performed at 19,250 miles on June 26, 2011. A 30,000 mile service with oil and fluid changes, new clutch and throw-out bearing and seals, machined flywheel, new CV boots (both axles) new motor mounts, smog test, and cosmetic refinishing of the center console were all completed totaling over $12,000.00. At that time, a set of Bridgestone 225/40/18 front and 265/40/18 rear tires were also installed. On June 25, 2014 San Francisco Motorsports performed the second engine out service with the car showing 32,148 miles. In addition to the timing belt service numerous other items were tended to including CV boots, motor mounts, a new heat exchanger and exchanger hose as well as new exhaust manifolds, gaskets and seals. Also, at this time, the alarm ECU was replaced, new power steering hoses installed, and a new water pump and alternator were installed. The total for this invoice exceeded $22,000.00. Further service work included catalytic converter repair and F1 gearbox actuator repair which was removed and sub-let repaired at 34,900 miles. In May 2019 with 36,137 miles showing, the dashboard and center console were treated to new “non sticky” knobs and switches, and further attention to detail was given to the interior including mirrors, a new set of floor mats, various interior bezels, ashtray, defroster vents etc. to make sure that the interior reflected the very best cosmetic and functional features possible.

Today this beautiful 355 Spyder shows just 36,294 miles. The overall cosmetic condition is crisp and beautiful offering a stunning blue over burgundy color combination as ordered new. Digital paint meter tests confirm the factory original blue paint in all areas with exception of an area in the right rear quarter panel and the front storage cover. The smooth and glossy paint is excellent throughout with no significant marks. The front bumper cap shows some minor road chips and lower air dam parking scuffs, but otherwise the exterior finish throughout is very cohesive and refined. The glass, windshield, and lighting are in excellent condition. 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 including door jambs and the underside surfaces of the engine and storage lids. The wheels are in excellent condition showing only minor edge marks from general use. The wheels are accented by vivid red brake calipers and striking yellow Ferrari centers shod with Bridgestone tires.



The interior of the car is in especially nice condition. There are no “tacky” or sticky knobs or surfaces. The commonly impacted components have been replaced and the surrounding areas detailed to a very high standard. The burgundy leather is supple and smooth with excellent surfacing, excellent seat foam resilience, and no significant scuffs or scratches of note. The dark blue convertible top is in excellent condition as are the matching blue carpets. The dashboard surfaces and blue perimeter stitching are in excellent condition showing beautiful color and tight material adhesion. Other material surfaces including the center console, door panels, visors, and A pillar covers are also in excellent condition. Overall, the interior is handsome and fresh with excellent fit and finish befitting a car of this stature; particularly elegant in these unique colors. The trunk area remains fresh as well, consistent with the rest of the interior; enthusiastically maintained by the passionate consigning owner.



The engine and drivetrain overall are in excellent cosmetic condition. The factory air boxes, hoses, and intake plenums are wonderfully preserved and properly maintained with correct hardware and appropriate detailing. Hoses, fittings, and assorted under-hood components appear nicely preserved or replaced using correct Ferrari parts as needed. The undercarriage is clean and dry, retaining the aerodynamic chassis shields and proper factory fasteners. There is no evidence of structural damage nor is there evidence of structural repair to the floor or suspension mounting points. The clean aluminum engine and suspension castings further support the low mileage recorded in the service documents.



Firing up the engine, the car springs to life with confidence on ignition. The car drives and shifts as expected with no hesitation in power with rapid F1 paddle shifting smoothly engaging through all gears. Cornering and road manners are very satisfying, reflecting the engineering and performance improvements Ferrari had so diligently demanded for their final offering of the century. The overall feel of this car is consistent with the low miles and professional maintenance it has enjoyed over the years. The car is accompanied by Ferrari factory tools and leather case, factory tire inflator and case, owner’s manuals and support books, factory paperwork including warranty card and original delivery certificate, two sets of keys, two car covers (one silk), a battery tender (the plugin is installed in the engine compartment for easy access), original Ferrari seat covers and steering wheel protector, a copy of Forza Magazine, November 2018 issue, the Bronze trophy from FCA Concours, and a binder with owner information, notes, service invoices and other documents.



This beautiful F355 Spider F1, presented in stunning colors with beautifully maintained finishes and solid service history, is ready to enjoy just as intended when originally delivered two decades ago. The supple burgundy leather interior and deep blue exterior combine to make a remarkable and unique Ferrari; offering both captivating and desirable open F1 performance sure to delight the next fortunate owner.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608