Produced between 1994 and 1999, the Ferrari 355 was a V8, 2-seat coupe, which evolved from the popular Ferrari 348. Its performance compared with its predecessor was improved through the incorporation of a 5-valve cylinder head that produced an impressive 375 bhp. The 355 was eventually replaced by the 360.

At first the Ferrari 355 was available in two versions; the GTS (featuring a Targa Top) and the Berlinetta Coupe. The convertible version, the Spider, was introduced a year later. In 1997 a F1 version was produced which featured a paddle-type gear shift usually found in Formula 1 racing cars.

Some 4,871 Berlinetta models were produced in total and this became the first ever street-legal car to feature the F1-style transmission system, which allowed for high speed gear changes. The GTS model was essentially the same as the Berlinetta but featured a removable 'Targa Top'. Some 2,577 GTS models were produced in total. The soft-top version (the first ever electronically powered soft top to feature on a Ferrari) proved to more popular than the GTS and some 3,717 were produced.

All the various models, however, featured a similar basic construction. The monocoque frame was constructed from steel and included a tubular steel sub-frame at the rear. The suspension at both front and rear utilized unequal-length, independent wishbones fitted with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll bars and electronic control servos were also incorporated into the construction.

The company introduced a model that was specifically designed to compete in the Ferrari Challenge. The Ferrari F355 Challenge was essentially a standard Berlinetta model which came with a conversion kit (costing around Ј20,000) that would be fitted by the dealership. The installation was fairly complex and included components such as a lightweight exhaust, a competition clutch, a roll cage, racing seats and 18" Speedline wheels. The engine however, remained completely unmodified. In total 108 models were produced all featuring a special F355 Challenge emblem installed on the rear boot.

In the last year of production another limited edition model was introduced -- the 'Serie Fiorano'. Just over 100 of these models were produced, which all featured several performance-enhancing components. These included a competition-style suspension conversion, special disc brakes and pads, a high-performance steering rack and the F1 transmission unit.

As far as Ferraris are concerned the F355 was relatively common with a total of 11,273 models constructed during the five years of its production.