1999 | Ferrari 355 F1 Spider 'Serie Fiorano'
Technical Information
Overview
Understanding the F355
Making its debut in 1994, the Ferrari F355 Berlinetta was the successor to the 348. Powered by a 3.5 Liter 380 HP V8 with a revolutionary 5 valves per cylinder, mirroring that of F1 engines at the time, the F355 was a large departure from its predecessor. Although the two share a basic structure, it is quite a step forward from the 348. Not just in performance, but aerodynamics and ergonomics as well.
Introduced in 1995 were two additional variants of the F355: the F355 spider and the F355 GTS. The F355 spider was a full convertible variant of the 355 with a partially powered folding soft top. Weighing only 130 lb more than the Berlinetta, Ferrari produced 3,720 355 spiders from 1995 to 1999, with just 1,053 of those being F1 transmission variants.
The F355 was truly revolutionary for Ferrari; it established a laundry list of firsts for the company that we still see in Ferrari vehicles today. It was the first project for the newly appointed CEO Luca di Montezemolo, who wanted to change the makers direction to improve manufacturing techniques and build quality. It was the first Ferrari to use Venturi tunnels on the underbelly of the car to help generate downforce, the first road-going Ferrari to use 5 valves per cylinder, and perhaps most notably, the first Ferrari available with a paddle shift gearbox. Introduced for the 1997 model year, not only was this the first Ferrari road car with the technology, it was the first road car on Earth to feature paddle shifters. This gearbox shifting system was not only revolutionary for Ferrari but the greater automotive industry as a whole. A technology so revolutionary, that every sports car manufacturer from Porsche to Bugatti uses the Ferrari paddle shift design today.
Interestingly, the car's name changed depending on the gearbox equipped. F355 is the name of the car with the standard clutch pedal manual. However, if the F1 transmission was optioned, the name of the car changed to 355 F1.
To celebrate the end of F355 production in 1999, a special edition variant of the F355 spider was introduced: the Serie Fiorano Spider. As the name would imply, all Serie Fiorano Spiders were only available as a convertibles. Production was officially limited to just 100 units, although Ferrari produced 104 in total, shipping the additional four cars to Europe, Asia, and South Africa, while remaining exclusive to the US market in an officially capacity. One of the major upgrades that the Serie Fiorano received was to the F1 gearbox. Although available in both manual and F1, the F1-spec car benefits from faster shift times both up and down, through software and mechanical tweaks. Elsewhere, the car was improved with a different handling package that included tweaks to the suspension and the suspension ECU, allowing the car to sit half an inch lower.
From the exterior perspective, the car is nearly identical to non-Serie Fiorano counterparts, other than being just slightly lowered. However, in the interior, it is easy to spot Serie Fiorano cars because of their plaque denoting the production number out of 100. Additionally, the center console is made of carbon fiber, and the steering wheel is alcantara covered, both exclusive to the Fiorano spider. Scuderia fender shields and a Challenge Grille were standard fitment on the Fiorano Spiders, both of which were only options on base-model 355s.
This Example
This car, serial number 116530, is presented in Rossa Corsa paint with a Cuoio leather interior. It is number 82 of the 100 Fiorano Series Spiders sent to the United States. It is equipped with the F1 transmission, thus making the car a 1999 Ferrari 355 F1 Spider 'Serie Fiorano.' Just 74 F1 Serie Fiorano Spiders were ever produced.
Having just two owners since new, the second and current owner purchased the car in 2002. The car has covered just 18,600 miles since new. Having been serviced 200 miles ago, including a major engine-out timing service and a new black convertible top. The buttons and switches have been redone to fix the "sticky switches" issue that often arises in 355s. Included with the car are all of the original books, car cover, and records.
Why to Buy
The 355 represents an excellent nexus of what Ferrari is great at, combining current racing pedigree and technology in a beautiful package that is wonderful to drive. This particular variant of the 355 is rare, and this example, serial number 116530, has a fantastic lineage, and has been well cared for. With a fully documented ownership history, just two owners, and all records available, there are no dark patches or unknown quantities with this car.
History has shown us that limited-edition Ferraris are a good place to put money, and with this example, there are no excuses that need to be made. It would make a great addition to any collection and is something that can be driven and enjoyed for years to come.
Features & Options
Understanding the F355
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Introduction & Performance
- Debuted in 1994 as the successor to the 348, featuring a 3.5L V8 with 380 HP and F1-inspired 5-valve technology.
- Significant improvements in aerodynamics, ergonomics, and build quality.
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Innovations & Impact
- First Ferrari with Venturi tunnels for downforce.
- First road car with paddle-shift F1 gearbox (introduced in 1997).
- F355 for manual, 355 F1 for paddle-shift variants.
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Serie Fiorano Spider (1999 Final Edition)
- 100-unit special edition (104 total), exclusive handling upgrades, and lower ride height.
- Carbon fiber console, Alcantara wheel, Scuderia shields, and Challenge Grille standard.
- Enhanced F1 gearbox with faster shifts.
This Example
- #82 of 100 Serie Fiorano Spiders (74 with F1 transmission).
- Rosso Corsa over Cuoio leather, 18,600 miles.
- Two-owner history, full service records, recent major service.
Why to Buy
- Rare, well-documented, and highly collectible.
- Investment-worthy limited-production Ferrari.
- Perfect blend of performance, heritage, and exclusivity.
Service Records
Extensive service records will accompany the vehicle. According to the seller the car underwent a major engine-out timing service approximately 200 miles ago, at whihc time a new black convertible top was installed. The "Sticky Switches" were repaired approximately 10-12 years ago.
Ownership History & Provenance
The car has remained with its second owner since 2002 and is currently located in Hidden Hills, California.
Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1999 Ferrari 355 F1 Spider 'Serie Fiorano' shows wear consistent with its age and mileage according to a Seller's Disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.
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- The seller notes the convertible top is currently being serviced.
