355 Ferrari F355 Carbon Seats – OEM-Accurate Reproductions by CarbonSeats.com

Senshi458 · Mar 24, 2025

Hello FerrariChat Members,

We’re proud to introduce CarbonSeats.com as a new forum sponsor — and to officially announce the release of our OEM-accurate Ferrari F355 carbon seat reproductions.

These seats are faithful recreations of the original units produced by T.I.R. (Trasformazione Italiana Resine) in the 1990s, designed to meet the expectations of serious Ferrari collectors, restorers, and purists.

Technical Highlights:
• Shell Construction:
Autoclave-cured full carbon fiber, structurally identical to the original T.I.R. seats. No fiberglass fillers or visual-only carbon.

• Fitment:
Correct geometry and mounting points — direct bolt-in for all F355 models without modification.

• Seat Size:
Offered exclusively in narrow size, as originally fitted in the majority of F355 cars equipped with factory carbon seats.

• Trim & Upholstery:
Trimmed by Zanasi Group, Ferrari’s official partner for Classiche and Tailor Made programs.

Choose Connolly-style leather or Alcantara, with period-correct stitching, seam placement, and material finish.

How We Engineered the Reproduction
To ensure absolute accuracy, we began with an original Ferrari F355 factory carbon seat (narrow size).

• The seat was fully disassembled to allow for precise 3D scanning of the carbon shell, frame, and mounting points.

• We then created CAD models of the shell, seat rails, tilt mechanism, and foam geometry — ensuring the structure, ergonomics, and fitment are identical to OEM.

• Custom molds were developed for both the carbon shell and injection-molded seat foam, replicating the original density and contouring.

• We meticulously analyzed the original stitch patterns, seam placement, and panel templates to guarantee period-correct upholstery.

• Every component — from carbon layup to seat tilt mechanism — has been reverse-engineered to factory spec.

Historical Context:
Factory carbon seats were a rare and desirable option on the F355 — fitted to an estimated 250 cars worldwide (about 3.3% of total Berlinetta + GTS production).

Early seats (1995–1997) used twill-weave carbon-Kevlar, with Ferrari transitioning to plain-weave full carbon fiber around 1998–1999.

Our seats replicate the final evolution of this design using modern materials and exact measurements, making them ideal for concours restorations or high-end driver builds.

For photos, specs, pricing, or to inquire:

- Fully leather: https://www.carbonseats.com/product/ferrari-f355-carbon-seat-fully-leather/

- Full leather, center and side bolsters: https://www.carbonseats.com/product/ferrari-f355-carbon-seat-full-leather-center-and-side-bolsters/

- Alcantara and leather: https://www.carbonseats.com/product/ferrari-f355-carbon-seat-alcantara-and-leather/

- Leather and cloth: https://www.carbonseats.com/product/ferrari-f355-carbon-seat-leather-and-cloth/

Made to Order – Built for Your Ferrari
Each seat is made to order, with a typical production time of 30–40 days.

We build every set to match your car’s original specifications — if you’re unsure of the correct trim details, we can verify them using your Ferrari VIN through the factory database.

Our goal is to ensure the perfect fit — both mechanically and historically.

Shipping
We offer worldwide shipping, and it’s included in the price.
Seats are securely packed in custom protective crates to ensure safe delivery.

We’ll be following up soon with details on our reproductions for the 550 Maranello, 575M, F512 M, and Challenge Stradale carbon mirrors — all built with the same commitment to factory-correct precision.

We’re honored to be part of this community and happy to answer any technical or restoration-related questions.

– The CarbonSeats.com Team
Reza

sbenus · Mar 24, 2025

Very cool. Thanks for sharing!

193six4 · Mar 24, 2025

Any chance you’ll get into steering wheel manufacturing? Would love a non-airbag wheel but price of current offering in “Parts & Collectibles” is a bit steep for me right now.

sfcarguy · Mar 24, 2025

Do you have any pictures of the reproductions vs originals? As far as I could tell, most of the pictures on the site were of original seats with original Connolly autolux leather.

carnutdallas · Mar 24, 2025

Yummy! Reza is the best! Looking forward to the journey

Ob917 · Mar 25, 2025

Really awesome

Senshi458 · Mar 25, 2025

You’re absolutely right: many of the photos currently on our site show original factory Ferrari seats, which we’ve used throughout development as reference points to ensure our reproductions are as close to OEM as possible.

At this stage, our first production units are still being completed — and while we don’t yet have final side-by-side comparison photos, we’ve based every aspect of the build on 3D scans, teardown measurements, and direct material matching from a genuine narrow-size factory seat.

Please see the tear down seat that we used to measurements for 3D scans.

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Some key details we’ve already matched exactly:
• Seat shell geometry and mounting points
• Foam molds based on the original profile
• Correct stitch layout and panel templates
• Trimmed in Connolly Autolux leather, not Poltrona Frau
• Embossed Cavallino using Zanasi Group’s (Ferrari) original tooling

As soon as the first full set is completed, we’ll share high-res comparison shots — and we’d be glad to provide a preview to anyone interested.

Thanks again for the feedback — we’re here to get it exactly right.

– The CarbonSeats Team

Senshi458 · Mar 25, 2025

Connolly Autolux vs. Poltrona Frau — Getting the Details Right

When recreating the factory Ferrari carbon seats, one of the most important choices was the leather. While Poltrona Frauis excellent quality and used in modern Ferraris, it has a finer grain and a softer, newer look — not correct for 90s interiors.

We’ve chosen to use Connolly Autolux leather, which is what Ferrari originally used for the F355, 512M, and 550 Maranello carbon seats. It has the correct texture, sheen, and stiffness to match the OEM feel of the period.
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To go even further, we’ve partnered with Zanasi Group, Ferrari’s official upholstery partner, to use the original embossing tools for the Cavallino Rampante on the headrests — just like the factory did.
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This level of detail is what sets our seats apart. More photos coming soon.

Targatime · Mar 25, 2025

Stunning. Incredible you're doing this. I am very tempted and need to think it over....hmmmm....

Senshi458 · Mar 25, 2025

Thank you all — that truly means a lot! We’ve invested a ton of time into getting every detail exactly right, so it’s great to see it connecting with real enthusiasts like you guys

If anyone’s considering a set, I’m happy to answer questions or help verify your original trim spec using your VIN and check up with Ferrari — just to make sure everything is 100% correct.

We’re currently taking orders for the production run — each seat is made to order and trimmed by Zanasi, so build slots are very limited.

Feel free to message me here or email [email protected] — happy to help however I can.

Thanks
— Reza / CarbonSeats.com

ShineKen · Mar 25, 2025

Targatime said: ↑

Stunning. Incredible you're doing this. I am very tempted and need to think it over....hmmmm....
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Only thing you need to think about is color

Targatime · Mar 25, 2025

One way to think about it is, let's say you have $20k sitting around. Carbon seats definitely add $20k in value to any 355 (especially a GTB), so it is reasonable to say that carbon seats are really less of a purchase than an investment. Obviously, a less liquid asset than $20k in cash, but not particularly illiquid either, given the desirability of 355 carbon seats. It's certainly not a depreciating asset, or frankly even an especially risky one. Carbon seats or an S&P 500 ETF? The latter is probably riskier. So this is really like buying a $20k bond. Now, bond yields are currently in the 4-4.5 percent range. Obviously, carbon seats can't pay you interest. But 4.5 percent on $20k compounded annually is $900, and you have to pay federal taxes on that, so let's call it $500. So basically, the opportunity cost of buying carbon seats is $500 per year. In other words, they don't really cost $20k, just $500. That's how I'm thinking about it.

sbenus · Mar 25, 2025

Targatime said: ↑

One way to think about it is, let's say you have $20k sitting around. Carbon seats definitely add $20k in value to any 355 (especially a GTB), so it is reasonable to say that carbon seats are really less of a purchase than an investment. Obviously, a less liquid asset than $20k in cash, but not particularly illiquid either, given the desirability of 355 carbon seats. It's certainly not a depreciating asset, or frankly even an especially risky one. Carbon seats or an S&P 500 ETF? The latter is probably riskier. So this is really like buying a $20k bond. Now, bond yields are currently in the 4-4.5 percent range. Obviously, carbon seats can't pay you interest. But 4.5 percent on $20k compounded annually is $900, and you have to pay federal taxes on that, so let's call it $500. So basically, the opportunity cost of buying carbon seats is $500 per year. In other words, they don't really cost $20k, just $500. That's how I'm thinking about it.
Click to expand...

as a watch collector, I’ve done some mental gymnastics that would amaze most to justify some purchases but I think this one puts me to shame. Ha ha, that said, I am still probably going to buy the seats cause they’re awesome

Senshi458 · Mar 26, 2025

Targatime said: ↑

One way to think about it is, let's say you have $20k sitting around. Carbon seats definitely add $20k in value to any 355 (especially a GTB), so it is reasonable to say that carbon seats are really less of a purchase than an investment. Obviously, a less liquid asset than $20k in cash, but not particularly illiquid either, given the desirability of 355 carbon seats. It's certainly not a depreciating asset, or frankly even an especially risky one. Carbon seats or an S&P 500 ETF? The latter is probably riskier. So this is really like buying a $20k bond. Now, bond yields are currently in the 4-4.5 percent range. Obviously, carbon seats can't pay you interest. But 4.5 percent on $20k compounded annually is $900, and you have to pay federal taxes on that, so let's call it $500. So basically, the opportunity cost of buying carbon seats is $500 per year. In other words, they don't really cost $20k, just $500. That's how I'm thinking about it.
Click to expand...

Wow — that’s probably the most well-articulated take I’ve ever seen on these seats. Honestly, I couldn’t have said it better myself.

You nailed the logic. Factory-style carbon seats for the 355 are no longer a cost — they’re a value-preserving component, especially for collectors, restorers, and anyone who cares about originality.

There’s also something pretty special about putting that investment into the car itself — something you see, feel, and enjoy every time you drive. No bond or ETF gives you that kind of return.
Really appreciate you sharing that perspective — it’s exactly how we see it too.

— Reza / CarbonSeats.com

Senshi458 · Mar 26, 2025

sbenus said: ↑

as a watch collector, I’ve done some mental gymnastics that would amaze most to justify some purchases but I think this one puts me to shame. Ha ha, that said, I am still probably going to buy the seats cause they’re awesome
Click to expand...

Haha I love that, totally get it.
Between watches, cars, and seats like these, I think we’ve all done a little financial acrobatics to justify the things we love.
But hey, if the logic works and the product delivers — that’s a win-win, right?

Would be awesome to build a set for you when you’re ready. Just shoot me a message or email anytime — happy to walk through the details or confirm your spec with the VIN.

Appreciate the support!

— Reza / CarbonSeats.com

Skippr1999 · Mar 26, 2025

Great offering. When will your first seats be completed for viewing ?

Shark01 · Mar 27, 2025

Targatime said: ↑

One way to think about it is, let's say you have $20k sitting around. Carbon seats definitely add $20k in value to any 355 (especially a GTB), so it is reasonable to say that carbon seats are really less of a purchase than an investment. .
Click to expand...

While that may be true for factory in-period seats (especially if they are still in the original car), will that hold up for aftermarket seats?

This argument is very much like that for manual conversions when all the early adopters were making "investments" so their car's value would go up $75-$100k immediately. History has now shown that was a false premise.

If an owner wants upgraded carbon seats, it is great they are now available and they look the business. I would certainly have an interest if they ever sell them for other brands of cars. If selling a car with these seats, it might be easier to sell them to a certain audience (those that don't care about originality). Would that be worth extra money? Time will tell, but the history of mods in a Ferrari indicates not much gain.

But that shouldn't be the point. I'm a big carbon fiber fan. Ironically enough, some years ago I bought a full set of interior carbon fiber pieces for an exotic but never installed them. As a sellable item, I can still sell the set for more than I paid....but if I sold them installed in the car? Probably get nothing extra.

Senshi458 · Mar 27, 2025

Shark01 said: ↑

While that may be true for factory in-period seats (especially if they are still in the original car), will that hold up for aftermarket seats?

This argument is very much like that for manual conversions when all the early adopters were making "investments" so their car's value would go up $75-$100k immediately. History has now shown that was a false premise.

If an owner wants upgraded carbon seats, it is great they are now available and they look the business. I would certainly have an interest if they ever sell them for other brands of cars. If selling a car with these seats, it might be easier to sell them to a certain audience (those that don't care about originality). Would that be worth extra money? Time will tell, but the history of mods in a Ferrari indicates not much gain.

But that shouldn't be the point. I'm a big carbon fiber fan. Ironically enough, some years ago I bought a full set of interior carbon fiber pieces for an exotic but never installed them. As a sellable item, I can still sell the set for more than I paid....but if I sold them installed in the car? Probably get nothing extra.
Click to expand...

Really appreciate your thoughtful reply — and I completely agree with your larger point: modifications rarely add value, especially when they stray from original factory spec.

That’s why our project has never been about “modding,” but rather faithful restoration. These seats aren’t reinterpretations — they’re OEM-accurate reproductions, built from 3D scans of original factory seats, with correct geometry, foam density, stitch patterns, and even upholstery done by Zanasi Group using the same embossing tool Ferrari used in-period.

One detail worth mentioning:
Even on original cars, it’s very hard to tell whether a seat is OEM T.I.R. or not — the only reliable way is to remove the seat and check for the original T.I.R. production label underneath. And over time, it’s likely some will start adding repro stickers or badges… so even seats “claimed” to be original could be impossible to verify.

In that sense, what we’re offering is transparency, accuracy, and accessibility — for people who want the correct look, feel, and fitment without paying €30k+ for a rare original (if one even comes up for sale in your desired spec).

We’re not saying it adds financial value — but for many owners, it adds authenticity, completeness, and satisfaction.

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Appreciate the discussion — and glad to hear you’re a fellow carbon fiber fan!

— Reza / CarbonSeats.com

Shark01 · Mar 27, 2025

Senshi458 said: ↑

Really appreciate your thoughtful reply — and I completely agree with your larger point: modifications rarely add value, especially when they stray from original factory spec.

That’s why our project has never been about “modding,” but rather faithful restoration. These seats aren’t reinterpretations — they’re OEM-accurate reproductions, built from 3D scans of original factory seats, with correct geometry, foam density, stitch patterns, and even upholstery done by Zanasi Group using the same embossing tool Ferrari used in-period.

One detail worth mentioning:
Even on original cars, it’s very hard to tell whether a seat is OEM T.I.R. or not — the only reliable way is to remove the seat and check for the original T.I.R. production label underneath. And over time, it’s likely some will start adding repro stickers or badges… so even seats “claimed” to be original could be impossible to verify.

In that sense, what we’re offering is transparency, accuracy, and accessibility — for people who want the correct look, feel, and fitment without paying €30k+ for a rare original (if one even comes up for sale in your desired spec).

We’re not saying it adds financial value — but for many owners, it adds authenticity, completeness, and satisfaction.

View attachment 3814004

Appreciate the discussion — and glad to hear you’re a fellow carbon fiber fan!

— Reza / CarbonSeats.com
Click to expand...

Yes, agree.....just don't wish to see anyone get the wrong idea.

Do you plan to make carbon fiber versions of classic Lamborghini (Miura, Counrach, Diablo) seats? Factory seats are not very comfortable (OK, just not good).

Timmo · Mar 27, 2025

Such replica seats will not add value in the same way as factory seats would in a car they originally came in, but I guess it won't be too hard to sell them along with the car if a prospective buyer is interested and has the funds.

Still, I don't understand how people can pay that much for mere seats. It's not like the car will run any better with them and it's a superficiality embarrassingly similar to a fashionable pair of Chanel or whatever shoes for the wife...

INTMD8 · Mar 27, 2025

Weight reduction isn't comparable to a pair of shoes, IMO

Timmo · Mar 27, 2025

INTMD8 said: ↑

Weight reduction isn't comparable to a pair of shoes, IMO
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Agreed, but if weight is a concern and it should be when shopping around for bucket seats, why bother with such luxury items when there will be far more cost effective and lighter bucket seats available elsewhere.

With that said I don't mean to devalue the incredible effort put into this project to which I wish the greatest success.

INTMD8 · Mar 27, 2025

For myself I wanted weight reduction but don't find a fixed race type seat comfortable.

These are adjustable, comfortable and lighter rather than just lighter.

sbenus · Mar 27, 2025

Timmo said: ↑

Still, I don't understand how people can pay that much for mere seats. It's not like the car will run any better with them and it's a superficiality embarrassingly similar to a fashionable pair of Chanel or whatever shoes for the wife...
Click to expand...

You don’t have to understand it. Some people can afford it and choose to do so because it makes them happy whatever their reasons may be. It might be weight reduction, comfort, aesthetics, or something we are not even thinking of. Whatever it is, you’re passing a negative judgment on a subjective and personal motivation/opinion of a hypothetical person you don’t know. Litigating opinions doesn’t make for a very compelling contribution IMHO (yes, I can see how this might seem ironic). Must we really pee in someone else’s Cheerios?

Timmo · Mar 27, 2025

Questioning the soundness of such a purchase is not negative per se and it is something that everyone considering committing - or not - will have done for themselves and are free to share. If it was only a case of having the money then let's just price them at 50k€ each + 10k€ for special stitching. It's only money after all, isn't it?
The lack of common good sense on here is sometimes puzzling.

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