Lot 136: 1996 Ferrari F355 Challenge

Following the success of the Ferrari 348 Challenge, the 355 Challenge was launched in 1995 as a one make race series based upon the original 355 road car. Cars left the factory in either the full Challenge specification or were uprated with the official upgrade kit with the series proving to be remarkable popular. The challenge cars were developed by Ferrari F1 test driver Nicola Larini and share the same dimensions and track with their road going cousins. The major visible differences being the fitment of a rear wing, roll cage, race buckets and a fire extinguisher. More subtle upgrades included competition brakes, competition exhaust, stiffer suspension, a lighter weight due to the removal of interior trim, slightly more powerful engine due to the sports exhaust and Speedline magnesium alloy wheels shod with slick Pirelli tyres. The race cars were identical in specification in order to make driver talent more important than the size of your wallet. Engines were sealed so expensive modifications were prohibited ensuring a level playing field. Only 72 cars were built new by the factory, 13 of which were right-hand drive and another 100 or so were fitted with Ferrari's after-market upgrade kit.This particular F355, manufactured in 1996 is an original factory built Challenge car and is 1 of the 13 right hand drive examples produced. The car is in good overall condition and has the added benefit of being road legal enabling the owner to drive to race meetings or take part in a wider variety of motosport competition. The car has been extremely well maintained throughout its life with preparation prior to each race with bills totaling over £70,000. The car has only covered 15,000 miles from new and had £30,000 spent on it 3,000 miles ago ensuring the car was road legal and mechanically sound. The engine and transmission are described as being in excellent order. Also fitted is a Tracker and Concept alarm for peace of mind. The car is currently with its third owner and is supplied with a large file of bills detailing race preparation. A V5 document, old MoT certificates are supplied along with spare tyres, wiring and spare parts manuals as well as a current MoT certificate valid until July next year. The car is currently fitted with the sports exhaust but the road version is supplied with the vehicle. This car cost £160,000 new and represents a unique opportunity to purchase a road legal competition Ferrari with race history.