F355 in an F40 Party Frock

I have set up a new account in order to try and have an adult discussion with enthusiasts about a project I am undertaking. I am a regular user of the board but this is my first post under my new guise.

I know there are very diverse views on recreation/replicas etc based on original ferrari underpinnings (lets not even go into the mr2/fiero etc donors)

What I would like to do is canvas the opinions of similar like minded enthusuasts for the following concept.

Take one original ferrari f355 (cosmetically damaged, but structurally intact and mechanically undamaged) which was destined to be parted out.

Remove all external panels, so that basically the following key structure remains (pic1)

Construct an integral rollcage as per an original f40 frame (pic2)

Attach a full set of original LM spec lightweight f40 carbon kevlar panels (pic3) note there are no issues regarding the correct orientation and scale, as both cars share the exact same wheelbase and cabin location.

Mirror construct an f40 spec interior but utilising the existing 355 main dials, steering column, gear selector etc.

Utilise a set of 18" versions of the original f40 wheels.

Fire her up and enjoy the practicalities, sound and usabilty of the 355 on the open road, with the supreme looks of the f40.

Being lighter than a standard 355 the car should perform much better on track events, and with upgrades in braking/suspension and possibly later the addition of turbocharging it should be able to give a standard f40 a run for its money.

Budget is circa $120,000. It will be a properly engineered vehicle not a bondo filled wreck.

As I already own the vehicle and the components required, and an individual I have full rights to do with it as I please without any required authority from ferrari, especially as this is not a commercial venture. The local registration authority have also confirmed it will retain its original ferrari 355 identification as its core structure and mechanicals remain unaltered.

How would such a car be welcomed?, especially as it would be eligible for any official ferrari gathering.

I am already expecting a level of negativity from certain quarters, so I am more interested in the views of current or potential ferrari owners who would enjoy ownership of such a car.

The project starts next week, there wont be a build thread sorry, but photos will be posted of the finished item, completion will probably be the end of this year.

I welcome all questions and to hear all views, if they be negative then please highlight the actual factual reasons for such. (It wont stop it happening though).

For any doubters out there I am happy to do the Pistonheads "custard test"

I would love to hear your thoughts please?

mods please let this thread run as it is rather than lump it into the replica thread as I believe it has its own unique merits and would be lost in such a catch all discussion.

edit

meant to say if you want to avoid replying on this thread then just drop me a pm with any info or questions.
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thanks Craig

 

thats the total all inclusive budget Simon, most elements have already been purchased so it is realistic and on track to be met.

 

yes to question 1, and whatever you like to question 2.

 

with regards to comparisons to Jims p4/5 that a one off concept and all hail to it.

I dont have that kind of budget either, mines exactly what its stated to be, a 355 with an f40 outer skin, nothing more, nothing less. There will never be any claims to it being a true f40, more just a homage to its beauty at a fifth of its price, as well as keeping an original ferrari away from the jaws of a crusher or the perils of ebay

 

As Simon mentions there is one big bit at the back that if you use in its original format has it already embossed in rather large script, so whether that component be hanging on a wall as an oranament or hanging off the back of my car there is not a lot of choice really in that instance.

 

funnily enough Steve due to a typo on the registration document, the base car is already listed as an f35 against model type so it was destined to be !

 

The shape of the f40 looks fantastic in yellow, even though I dont like yellow cars its an option I am considering. All the panels need repainting anyway but in mock up stage they will stay red for now.

 

not actually taken any yet, once its all in one place I will try to take some. The body has already been stripped down to the bare bones ready for measuring up. Its a side project so progress will be as time allows.