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1998 Ferrari 355 F1 Berlinetta | $800K HKD

  • Classic Insider Exclusive
  • 1 day ago
  • 6 min read

THIS MOTOR CAR


Classic Insider is proud to present an exceptional 1998 Ferrari 355 F1 Berlinetta, a landmark model that masterfully bridged Ferrari’s hand-built heritage with its technological future. Finished in the captivating and rare Tour de France Blue over a light Beige leather interior, this F1-paddle-shift example represents the zenith of the 355’s evolution. Beyond its breathtaking aesthetics and spine-tingling 8,500-rpm symphony lies an even more compelling story: an exhaustive, invoice-documented history of expert care and recent comprehensive renewal, making it one of the most conscientiously maintained and ready-to-enjoy examples available.


IN SHORT: THE DEFINITIVE 355


The Ferrari 355 F1 Berlinetta marked a pivotal moment, introducing the revolutionary F1 paddle-shift gearbox that brought Formula 1 technology to the road. More than just a technological statement, it is celebrated for its perfect proportions, a sonorous 3.5L V8, and its role as the last truly hand-built Ferrari. This Hong Kong-delivered example elevates the proposition further, combining its iconic specification with a documented, no-expense-spared maintenance and restoration history from Hong Kong's premier Ferrari specialists, representing an investment exceeding HKD $400,000 over the past six years alone. It is a comprehensively "sorted" and recently repainted collector's car, ready to deliver the visceral driving thrill that has cemented its legendary status.


EXTERIOR & INTERIOR: TIMELESS DESIGN, PERFECT PRESENTATION


Cloaked in the glorious factory colour of Tour de France Blue, this 355’s exterior has just undergone a full, high-quality repaint (2025), presenting it in spectacular, as-new condition. Its elegant Pininfarina lines and iconic rear grille are perfectly accentuated. The car has been tastefully and reversibly enhanced with a few key, high-quality upgrades that improve aesthetics and usability: Morimoto 355 XB LED tail lights for improved visibility and a modern signature, an authentic Ferrari Challenge rear grille for a motorsport-inspired look, and a period-correct Ferrari Challenge flat-bottom sport steering wheel for improved ergonomics. Crucially, every single,l original part is included with the sale.


Inside, the classic Beige leather interior provides a beautiful, period-correct contrast to the blue exterior, creating an inviting and luxurious cabin that is ready to be enjoyed.


Year: 1998

Body: Berlinetta

Exterior: TDF Blue

Interior: Beige leather

Driver's Sider: RHD

Transmission: Automatic

Mileage: Estimated 42,430 KM* (Odometer replacement at Ferrari Dealer in 2022 at 40,180 KM)

Indicated Mileage: 23,721 KM

First Delivery Location: HONG KONG (JAN 1998)

Registration: Hong Kong Registered with 7 previous owners

Current Ownership: Since 2022 / Road Taxed till June 2026


MECHANICAL & MAINTENANCE: A DOCUMENTED, NO-EXPENSE-SPARED INVESTMENT


At its heart lies the legendary 3.5L 40-valve V8, producing 375 hp and famed for its intoxicating, high-revving character and spine-tingling exhaust note. Power is delivered exclusively via the pioneering F1 electro-hydraulic sequential manual gearbox—a defining and period-correct characteristic that delivers thrilling, lightning-fast shifts.

The true distinction of this specific 355 F1 is found in its extensive file of invoices, which detail a continuous campaign of expert care. The car has been maintained and restored with an unwavering commitment to preservation and performance by Hong Kong's leading authorities, including the official Ferrari dealer Blackbird Concessionaires and renowned specialist SPS Global. This represents not merely reactive servicing, but a proactive, systematic program of mechanical renewal and cosmetic restoration.


THE CLASSIC INSIDER ASSESSMENT


We quantify condition where others merely describe. Our score of 83/100 reflects a car in excellent overall condition, with a superb recent cosmetic presentation and a mechanically sorted state backed by extraordinary documentation.


Exterior (85/100): Presented in outstanding order following its recent comprehensive repaint. The Tour de France Blue finish is of high quality, and all original and modified bodywork is aligned and pristine.


Interior (80/100): The Beige leather cabin is well-preserved and presents very well for the age, showing careful use. The addition of the Challenge steering wheel is a tasteful, functional upgrade.


Mechanical (85/100): This is the car's core strength. The staggering, fully documented investment in its maintenance and comprehensive mechanical refurbishment between 2019-2025 ensures it offers a level of driving crispness, reliability, and confidence that is exceptionally rare for the model.


HIGHLIGHTS


  • Legendary 355 F1 Berlinetta in rare, factory-correct Tour de France Blue.

  • Desirable right-hand drive, Hong Kong-new example.

  • Over HKD $400,000 in documented maintenance, mechanical overhauls, and restoration since 2019.

  • Full exterior respray completed in 2025.

  • Major investments include: Ferrari dealer engine-out cambelt service & comprehensive suspension/brake overhaul (2023), F1 gearbox service and calibration, fuel system renewal, and full major service (2025).

  • Tasteful, reversible upgrades (LED tails, Challenge grill/wheel) with all original parts included.

  • Classic Insider Condition Score: 83/100


The Ferrari 355 F1 Berlinetta is a landmark model; this particular car is that landmark presented with gold-standard, recent provenance. It transcends being a project or an unknown quantity, standing instead as a fully sorted, turn-key asset. For the serious enthusiast, it represents the ultimate ownership proposition: the raw, unfiltered thrill of one of Ferrari's most celebrated modern classics, delivered with total mechanical confidence thanks to a documented history that speaks of obsessive, expert stewardship. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully presented, expertly maintained icon that is ready for immediate enjoyment.


Available Exclusively at Classic Insider. For more info, please contact:

Kenneth Wong

Telephone Or Whatsapp: +852 9013 2536

SERVICE HISTORY


his is an exceptional example of the definitive 355 F1, presented with an exhaustive and highly concentrated service history from both the official Ferrari dealer and leading specialists. This recent history, stretching from 2019 to 2025, represents a "top-to-bottom" level of care executed over a short, decisive period. The records showcase a meticulous, no-expense-spared approach to comprehensive renewal, addressing both proactive mechanical overhauls and a full cosmetic restoration.


Detailed Service Timeline & Major Investments


2019-2021: Foundational Systems Overhaul & Reliability

Service Agents: Blackbird Concessionaires (Official Dealer)


This period under previous ownership focused on ensuring core system reliability, with a significant engine-out service and rectification of major components.

  • Aug 2019: Diagnosis and rectification of F1 gearbox selection issues; brake system bleed and fluid renewal.

  • Mar 2020: Major engine-out service including clutch sensor kit replacement and comprehensive system checks.

  • Feb 2021: Replacement of failed fuel pump, radiator cooling fans, and repair of damaged undertray brackets.

  • May 2021: Diagnosis and replacement of a faulty relay board responsible for an overheating issue.


2022-2023: Intensive Mechanical & Chassis Refurbishment

Service Agents: Blackbird Concessionaires, SPS Global


Upon acquisition by the current enthusiast owner, a focused campaign began to refresh the car's core mechanics and chassis, addressing wear and sharpening dynamics.

  • Nov 2022: Initial inspection and clutch system service.

  • Sep 2022: New set of Michelin PS5 Tires

  • Aug 2023: Comprehensive systems service at Blackbird: Engine out Cambelt replacement. Realignment of F1 selector rods, replacement of steering tie rods and front suspension ball joints, new spark plugs, and A/C service.

  • Dec 2023: Major chassis and suspension overhaul at SPS Global: Installation of refurbished suspension dampers and springs, new ball joints, refurbished rear muffler with new mounts, new ABS sensors, and a new LED third brake light.

  • Dec 2023: Replacement of worn transmission mounts.


2024-2025: Cosmetic Renewal & Final Commissioning

Service Agents: Blackbird Concessionaires, SPS Global


The final and most transformative investments were made to present the car in concours-standard condition and ensure it is perfectly sorted.

  • Jan 2024: Diagnosis and replacement of leaking engine oil pipes by Blackbird.

  • Feb 2025: Extensive major service at SPS Global: Full fluid changes, new parking brake pads, alarm siren, F1 relay, all accessory belts and tensioners, wiper blades, trunk/engine cover gas struts, and coolant cap.

  • May 2025: Crowning cosmetic investment – Full exterior respray, door window gasket replacement, and successful Hong Kong MOT inspection.


Summary of Major Investment Areas


Collectively, the documented history from 2019 to 2025 reveals an investment well in excess of HKD $400,000. This extraordinary sum underscores the level of care dedicated to this vehicle, addressing:


  • Cosmetic & Body: A recent, high-quality full exterior respray (2025).

  • Chassis & Suspension: Comprehensive suspension overhaul with dampers, springs, ball joints, and tie rods (2023).

  • Drivetrain: Major engine-out service (2020), transmission mount replacement (2023), and ongoing F1 gearbox system calibration.

  • Engine & Systems: Repeated attention to fuel, cooling, and electrical systems, including pump, fan, and relay board replacements.

  • Maintenance & Wear Items: Multiple major services replacing all fluids, belts, filters, and ancillaries.


FINAL WORD


This Ferrari 355 F1 Berlinetta is a definitive turn-key opportunity. It bypasses the daunting restoration costs and deferred maintenance that often accompany these iconic cars. Presented with a fresh, accident-free respray, an excellent and carefully used interior, and a fully sorted mechanical state, it offers immediate enjoyment and complete confidence.


The extensive file of dealer and specialist invoices provides unparalleled transparency and peace of mind. This is the 355 experience as it was meant to be: thrilling, visceral, and utterly reliable. It is ready for its next custodian to simply drive and cherish.



DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website has been compiled by Classic Insider with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. Classic Insider is not liable for any errors or mistakes.

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