Short History of 355

Found this nice short history of the 355 on Cannillomotorsports.com Don't know if it has been taken from another source but thought I would share it.

"History of the Ferrari F355

In 1994, the newest heir to the Ferrari V8 throne, the F355, was available to the public. It's available in Berlinetta(coupe), GTS(targa) and Spider forms. This model is a direct development from the 348, in overall mechanical configuration and general body shape, although most people find the revised lines much more pleasing.

In the mechanical department the engine was enlarged to 3.5 liters and fitted with five valves per cylinder, hence the 355 designation, while the gearbox now had six forward ratios. Maximum torque was 268ft-lbs at 6,000rpm, but the really staggering figure was maximum power of 380bhop at a heady 8250rpm. This equates to a specific output of 109bhp per liter, better than any other normamlly aspirated contemporary, eclipsing even the 6.1 liter McLaren F1(103bhp per liter).

The nose of the F355 features a grille that reflects the shape of the V12-powered 456GT, F512M and 550 Maranellow sister models, with small, circular, high-intensity daytime flasher lights. The 348's side strakes over the door radiator openings have been replaced by uncovered openings, the tail panel has a prominent upturned lip spoiler, and the 348's rectangular rear light clusters under a grille have been replaced by twin circular units one ach side of a plain panel, reminiscent of the earlier 308/328 models. The road wheels are a five-spoke design, reflecting the same family heritage as the grille.

Without exception, the F355 has received huge praise in the world's motoring press, not only for it's magnificent lines and impressive performance, but also for it's driveability and usability. With much lighter and more user-friendly controls, it is a car that any driver can handle competently and confidently."