Description
Ferrari F355 F1 Spider | 1999
Highlights:
- F1 electrohydraulic automated transmission, rare for its era
- Classic Ferrari V8 producing a spirited driving experience
- Low mileage example with just 28,324 km recorded
- Imported from Germany with documented maintenance history
- Cabriolet configuration for open-top Ferrari driving pleasure
The seller offers for sale this 1999 Ferrari F355 F1 Spider, a compelling open-top sports car blending the classic Ferrari silhouette with advanced technology of the late 1990s. Under its sculpted bodywork lies a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing around 380 hp and revving up to an exhilarating 8,500 rpm. This example features the F1 electrohydraulic automated transmission, a significant innovation at the time, allowing drivers to change gears via paddles on the steering column without operating a clutch pedal. This technology added a modern racing-inspired feel to the traditional Ferrari driving experience and distinguished the F1 Spider from its manual siblings.
Imported from Germany in 2021, the car has covered only 800 km in Romania since its arrival and retains full maintenance history from both Germany and its current ownership. The odometer reads a total of 28,324 km, highlighting the limited use this vehicle has seen over its lifespan. The car has always been kept in a covered garage at a constant temperature, helping preserve its condition.
Visually, the bodyworkhas been maintained well, although minor chips and scratches are noted, consistent with gentle use over more than two decades. The iconic Ferrari lines remain sharp and striking, underscored by aerodynamic sculpting and the low, purposeful stance of the F355 series. The cabin features Ferrari’s signature blend of sports car minimalism and luxury, trimmed in leather and showing only modest wear for its age. No significant interior components require replacement, though the seller acknowledges it cannot be described as perfect purely due to age. Mechanically, the car is reported to be solid, with no known starting issues, abnormal noises, or smoke emissions. The gearbox shifts smoothly, and all essential systems function properly. Overall, the F355 F1 Spider presents as a well-preserved, usable classic, offering an authentic Ferrari experience that remains highly engaging by modern standards.
The exterior displays well, showing a glossy finish and body lines that remain true to the original design. Minor stone chips and faint scratches are visible on close inspection, a typical sign of age rather than neglect. Panel fit appears consistent, and there is no record of accident damage or structural repairs. Inside, the cabin remains clean and mostly original, with leather upholstery in sound condition and minimal signs of wear on seating surfaces, switchgear, and trim. Some patina is to be expected in a Ferrari of this age. Mechanically, the car is noted as functioning well, though buyers should expect the routine servicing and attention necessary for any Ferrari of this era, particularly for models with advanced systems like the F1 gearbox, which can involve higher maintenance costs compared to conventional manual transmissions. Nonetheless, this example stands as an appealing candidate for enthusiasts seeking a classic Ferrari convertible with modern performance features.
Introduced in 1994, the Ferrari F355 represented a major leap forward for Ferrari in terms of both design and engineering. Replacing the 348, the F355 brought smoother styling, enhanced aerodynamics, and significant improvements to handling and performance. Its 3.5-litre V8 engine featured a five-valve-per-cylinder head design, allowing it to breathe more efficiently and produce higher revs and greater power than its predecessor. The result was a car that could deliver 0-100 km/h in around 4.7 seconds, a remarkable figure for the time.
One of the most notable developments for the F355 came in 1997, when Ferrari introduced the F1 electrohydraulic gearbox option. Derived from Formula 1 technology, this system allowed drivers to shift gears via paddles mounted behind the steering wheel, providing faster changes and a racing-inspired feel. It was the first time such a system was offered in a road-going Ferrari, making the F355 F1 Spider particularly significant in the marque’s history. While early systems lacked the refinement of modern dual-clutch gearboxes, they provided a unique blend of old-school engine character and cutting-edge innovation.
The F355 also enjoyed success in motorsport, particularly in the Ferrari Challenge series, and its crisp handling, balanced chassis, and dramatic engine note won widespread praise from journalists and enthusiasts. Today, the F355 is regarded as a modern classic, appreciated for its combination of traditional Ferrari charm and modern usability. It sits at a transitional moment in Ferrari’s history, bridging the analogue era with the digital age and representing one of the last Ferraris styled under the direction of Pininfarina before dramatic shifts in the brand’s design language in the 2000s.
Values for the F355 have steadily risen as collectors seek examples with documented histories, low mileage, and original features. The F1 variants, though sometimes viewed with caution due to higher potential maintenance costs, hold appeal for those interested in Ferrari’s technological evolution. For drivers and collectors alike, the F355 remains an attractive proposition, offering a thrilling drive, an unmistakable exhaust note, and timeless styling. This particular Spider, with its low mileage and careful storage, stands as a noteworthy example of a significant model in Ferrari’s lineage.
Noted imperfections include minor chips and scratches on the bodywork consistent with age and use. While the paint and panels present well overall, closer inspection may reveal small blemishes typical for a vehicle over twenty years old. The interior, though generally clean, reflects some light wear on surfaces, in keeping with the mileage and age. No significant faults are reported, but buyers should account for possible minor servicing needs customary for a Ferrari of this type.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Ilfov, Romania.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Romanian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
