The Ferrari F355 model name was derived from the 3496cc V8 with 5 valves per cylinder, an additional 91cc and 60bhp over the previous model.
With Nicasil coated steel liners, titanium alloy conrods were used, connected to forged alloy pistons. New cylinder heads used three inlet and two exhaust valves per cylinder, operated via hydraulic tappets from four overhead camshafts the valve springs rated to 10,000 rpm! The all-round double wishbone suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers was now continually adjustable via electronic sensors, according to the speed and attitude of the car, taking the Ferrari 355 into an altogether higher league of handling. A special undertray was now fitted, introducing a ground effect which caused negative lift and so increased road adhesion. Power steering was standard and the ABS braking system could be switched on or off. With six-speeds, a stronger clutch and an incredible 380bhp at 8,250 rpm, 60mph (96kph) appeared in just 4.6 seconds, 100mph (161kph) in a staggering 10.6 seconds, a top speed of 185mph (298kph) achievable. Three body styles were offered, the Berlinetta coupe, GTS targa top, and a Spider.