FERRARI F355 Spider 1995-1999 Photos, engines & full specs

When Ferrari introduced the F355 lineup in 1994, those accustomed to the carmaker's habits waited for the open-top version, which followed in 1995.

Unlike other models developed by the Italian manufacturer, the numbers behind the F-letter stood for something else than the one-cylinder displacement. It stood for the 3.5-liter and the 5-valves/cylinder technology. It was an important step forward for the Italian engineers. And the customers who chose the open-top version of the F355 could enjoy the engine's sound better.

Like most mid-engined Ferraris, this model featured a short nose with a raked trunk lid and concealed pop-up headlights. Its raked windshield and the thick A-pillars also served as roll-over protection. The folding roof was retractable behind the seats in a special compartment covered with a tonneau cover. Behind it, the flat engine lid featured wide vents to cool the engine, while at the back, the F355 Spider sported four round taillights.

Inside, it had leather everywhere: seats, door panels, roof, center console, dashboard, and even behind the seats. It was one way to tell the owners why the price tag was that high.

On the center console, Ferrari installed the suspension setting; it was the first from its family to offer such a treat. It had a switch with two positions: off and Sport. The 6+1 pattern for the gearshift lever gate was crafted in metal, and it was virtually impossible to miss a gear. That was a signature design that some other Ferrari with a manual transmission had as well.

The V8 powerplant was developed by the same team that made the Formula 1 engine, and, at the time of its launch, it held the record for the highest specific power for a naturally aspirated engine.