Ferrari F355 Berlinetta was the car that changed my life and indirectly changed many other lives too

From the moment the Ferrari 355 was launched in the 1990's I really wanted one.
Seeing Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear ordering one for himself made me want one even more.
Then a test drive sent me to the next level of need.
It took me three years from that point to finally owning one.
I tell you how I did it.
What motivated me.
Then my ongoing 26 year story with the Ferrari 355.
And my final question is what object of desire is motivating young people today?
This video was made in association with Slade's garage www.slades-gar...

[@gritnltw]

The prettiest Ferrari ever. Elegant and understated. I would love a dark blue one.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, I agree they look superb in dark blue. Thanks for watching!

[@ZondaF355]

These 355s are so underrated. The engine is groundbreaking even today and the way the car drives is beyond words. Amazing cars

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! Yes the 355 is perfect- & reliable!

[@MattH-wg7ou]

And they sound amazing. But reliable? Maybe so, I wouldn't know. But Ive heard the regular services are super expensive. Not the same as reliability of course, but ouch.

[@cmarshall4559]

Drive a 360 and get back to me😂

[@MattH-wg7ou]

@@cmarshall4559 are they that much better?

[@cmarshall4559]

@@MattH-wg7ou light years😍

[@emptymannull]

Dream cars have changed my life in the same way and driven me! By 30, 2 months before my father passed, I'd managed to buy my childhood dream car. My pop used to always buy me models of it at the petrol stations from the time I was 4 or 5. It was a 1956/57 Corvette. Then at 40 I got my teenage dream car, a Porsche 993 C4 6-spd. Plus I'd had a couple dozen of others in between. At each mark, I feel like I'm at the peak of my life, only for it to just get better through sheer will power that drives me to buy more dream machines. Now I have a Ducati 996R in my living room, a 1969 Firebird that I've modified the hell out of, a 1992 Trans Am GTA I've owned for 25 years, etc. I do cybersecurity. Can't say that I love my job, but I only "work" to fund my dreams :)

[@sportscarstory]

Exactly! The dream cars are so important for motivation. What a garage you have! Subscribe to see my other cars. I’m keen also to feature an early corvette compared to an e type. Thanks for your story!

[@cos358]

That silver coupe looks gorgeous 👌🏼

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou so much! & thanks for watching!

[@bkeen7013]

I know a number of kids who are of driving age who don’t have their drivers license nor seem in any hurry to obtain one. I’m 56 years old and made sure I got my drivers license the day after my 16th birthday. I grew up lusting after the 512BBi, the Testarossa, F40 and 288GTO. Anything Ferrari, really. I don’t see much car lust from today’s kids, which is sad, and if they do express an interest it’s usually for a Tesla or some EV. Love your story and your 355. Enjoy!

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou. Great post. The 355 was attainable. But my poster car was a 288GTO. WHAT A CAR ! Sadly never been within my reach (maybe if I’d absolutely gone for it, chips along in 2005) Thanks again for watching!

[@wimdepril6920]

My story is very similar, although I stuck with the well paid job. Aspired to owning a Ferrari before I turned 40. Bought a 348ts at 36. Bought an F355 GTS three years later and a 355 spider again two years after that. Still own all of them and will never sell them. They represent all the hard work I’ve put into realizing my childhood dream. And they truely live up to that dream. Also the 348ts is a much better car than its undeserved reputation might have you believe. I would take it over any modern supercar all day long. Thanks for sharing!

[@sportscarstory]

What a story. I just wanted to show that truly aspirational car has changed a lot of people’s lives, & you’ve shown me some more proof. Thanks for watching! Ps. Yes the 348 is underrated & a great car.

[@davidthomas1424]

The 348 is such a beautiful car ❤

[@PhilBot4OOO]

I'm 36 and distinctly remember drooling over Car magazine imagery of 355s before the 360 came out, I was obsessed with cars when I was young, I had every stat memorised from the back page index of all the cars. I have recently started a business and a 355 is high up on my list of material desires. That dark blue spider really gave me goosebumps :) John Mayer said it well, we lust after the things that were the cool 'out of reach' things from when we were young and impressionable.

[@sportscarstory]

Exactly! Your motivation to succeed is stronger than many others. Good luck!

[@maxmurmel9222]

Wow, I didn't think silver would be the prettiest color on the 355 - it looks amazing!

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks. Yes it wasn’t my first choice either, but it really shows up the lines. Thanks for watching! More coming!

[@virgilrytaar9083]

Perfect! It took a record contract to get the 1st of my dream cars in 1990: Porsche 911, I've since achieved the Ferrari dream via a 208GTB, yes, 208! It was insane. My current fleet is 996, Ford Capri, Honda EP3, BMW 435i(Dads old car) Fiat 500 & Alpine GTA. I'm inspired by this film. Thankyou

[@sportscarstory]

I’m glad you enjoyed it! I like your fleet too. Do you know, I’ve never been up close to a 208! Thanks for watching, stay tuned!

[@Beltfedshooters]

I did the exact same thing when I was younger with the Acura NSX. Loved that car.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, the Senna developed NSX was right up there - & the reason why Ferrari had to respond with the 355. Thanks for watching!

[@jamesnewitt1960]

What an inspiring story, all credit to you for working and living your dream. Very few people had such aspirational goals that they go after and believe that they can get. Well done hope more people are inspired by Your journey

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou so much! Yes I hope it might create some inspiration. I think young adults need some! Thanks again for watching!

[@chrisdavis6374]

The desire unlocked the upper level Motivation that slumbers in many of us My motivation was different

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. We’re all different. The desire for a 355 worked for me. What was yours?

[@hiddestrikwerda1024]

I am now 23 years old i have the same dream as you i would really really really want to have a hand shifted f355! That car just really is my dream car. I think it looks stunning, it sounds even more stunning and i cant imagine what a thrill it must be to drive one! lovely video btw.

[@sportscarstory]

It’s great you want one! Now you just have to plan how you are going to get one. It is attainable, and you have time in your side. Good luck! Thanks for watching!

[@ZondaF355]

@hiddestrikwerda1024 the 355 is a car worth dreaming about I assure you. The compact size and the ride quality makes you feel like your in a dream. I hope you get to put one in your garage and put some miles on it they love to be driven.

[@nicolassantini5679]

Learn how to repair/maintain cars. That will make your F355 dream come true sooner. It’s only expensive to own if someone else does the work : )

[@astongrad930]

Inspiring story, thanks for sharing. I saw one not too dissimilar on KZbin recently; the chap got it on finance by committing most of his salary to it. That then spurred him on to the world of business so that he could retain and enjoy it

[@sportscarstory]

That’s a different way to go about it! Thanks for watching!

[@steveosmonson6535]

I've had a smile on my face this whole video, thank you for sharing from a fellow business owner

[@sportscarstory]

Thank you so much!

[@lakefield2112]

Great video and wonderful story. Thank you very much. I feel that the 355 GTB and the 550 Maranello are two of the most beautiful Ferraris ever made, and silver or dark blue is simply perfect. Well done sir.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks so much! I agree on both counts! Dark blue is also gorgeous, but the silver shows up the lines, especially on KZbin! Thanks for watching.

[@maverickcheston8874]

That silver is the best looking color on these!

[@sportscarstory]

Yes it really works with the 355, it shows up the lines perfectly. Thanks for watching, subscribe to see more!

[@cervelo9465]

I test drove a Porsche 993 in the late 1990's. Amazing car. The asking price was around £48,000 and I was looking at financing around £30,000 approx. Must be about 25 years ago now. The Porsche salesman brought the car out to my office, and I took the car on a two hour test drive, including naughty speeds. These obsession with cars, Porsche, Ferrari, etc. is formed early on in childhood, long before one car take the keys or reach the pedals. Good times. Yes.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. Really good times. Great story. Thanks!

[@francescodamore3393]

F355 spider is my dreamcar ❤ Great great emotions car 👏👍💪❤️

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou!

[@rogerkastoun3143]

this story resonates so much with my current situation. I am so glad you managed to buy this car. God bless you and may you enjoy it for decades! thank you for sharing!

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! I appreciate it!

[@ZondaF355]

Its so rare that meeting your heroes lives up to expectations. I agree sir the 355 exceeds expectations. That is very rare in my car experience. The Viper is another one that is even better than expected.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou!

[@andyrides9666]

I am a diesel man (I know, strange) I've wanted a BMW 535d M sport for a long time and I am nearly there. A tidy E60 in grey with a stage 1 tune and I'll be the happiest motorist on the road. Interesting story and a great car, love the silver. 👍

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks very much! We’ve all got our “want one” cars. It’s what drives you (scuse the pun!)

[@SteezyG]

Mate Im a petrol head but still have a soft spot for diesel. As cool as the V10 is in the M6. I actually think the 635d with the same engine is an absolutely lovely thing. Straight piped it sounds like an airbus. Cross continents without stopping, low revs on the motorway.... The only downside is space which an e60 fixes! You'll get there mate.

[@bluephoenix8470]

Great story. I needed to hear it. Thanks!

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for watching, please subscribe!

[@benmurphy4124]

Same for me… 348, 355s then I bought a 360 Modena. Argento like your 355B. Owned that 19 years now. Love it!!! To answer the question you asked. I think the younger people are moving to Porsche more. Tho Ferrari claims that a huge segment for them is customers under 40.

[@sportscarstory]

Interesting! Yes you’re probably right. Porsche’s pull has never wavered. Thanks for watching! Please subscribe!.

[@davidhilton8680]

Back in the 90s, I bought all the car magazines (and motorboats 🥴), being the dreamer that I was, looking at all the fabulous machines that I couldn't afford. I didn't know about the imminent unveiling of the 355 at the time. So, my folks are being taken to Cardiff airport for the start of their holiday by uncle, and I was asked if I wanted to tag along. It was a lovely summer's evening, I wasn't doing anything - so, why not!! At the airport, in the bar, there was time to kill before my folks flight, so I took myself off to the newsagent in the airport to check out the car magazines. My eye was immediately drawn to the front cover of Car magazine (I think it was "Car" anyway), and a gorgeous red Ferrari that I didn't recognise. I made a grab for the magazine and immediately searched for the article. I was blown away by probably the most beautiful "new" car I'd ever seen!!! I was in love!! Helped by the fact that this beautiful shapely red Ferrari was superbly photographed in what looked like a rustic Italian courtyard, blueish filter used for the scenery that made the red Ferrari "POP" out at me. Reading the article, it was clear that the 355 was a massive improvement on the 348 in every conceivable way - styling, engineering, performance etc...near perfection imo. (Tbh...the 348 has grown on me as I've got older 🥴) I bought the magazine, literally couldn't stop looking at the article when my uncle dropped me off later. I did have the magazine stored (with other automotive magazines from that time) in my dad's attic, but unfortunately, during a mad clear out he had, my magazines were all sent to the recycling bin - I wasn't happy 😩 Thankfully, my Silverstone GP programmes were saved from the cull (I attended in 94 & 95, ohh the sound of that Ferrari V12). If anyone knows what magazine and date/volume I'm talking about, let me know coz I'd love to buy a back copy...if there are any available??

[@sportscarstory]

Great story! Check out eBay for specific magazines. They often have the exact one, your memory is so vivid! Thanks for watching, please subscribe!

[@akarilotube]

I'm 55 and a 1991 Sebring silver NSX is what motivates me.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes that makes sense - beautiful . & that’s the car that motivated Ferrari to raise their game. What do you think is the inspirational car for 30 yr olds now?

[@akarilotube]

@@sportscarstory Sadly, a Tesla.

[@sportscarstory]

Probably true. I’ve got 2 Tesla’s. An S and a Y. Great way of getting about, but no passion. Maybe the Tesla roadster when it comes out will be more interesting?

[@janrbh17]

I am also a petrolhead like that. As soon as I got a job after studies I took a loan and bought a Ferrari 512 TR at 27. It has given me a lot of experiences and kind of defined me in a way. Never regretted buying it even though I have spent about 100 000 euro/ dollar/ pounds repairing it 😂

[@sportscarstory]

& you still have it? What a car! Hat off to you!

[@janrbh17]

Yes! I have owned it since 2006 and I just passed 100 000 km ( bought it at 44500 km). It is a nice car to own/ drive. 😊

[@sportscarstory]

That’s so cool. I wish I’d kept my first 355 & just ran with it.

[@brophster6869]

Great story, thank you for sharing!

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou very much!

[@christian-van-e]

I am self employed, mid 40s, did well for my self. I always dreamt of.... a Ferrari GTO model 1984. The most beautiful car ever made in my opinion. What I dream of now? Not a car (anymore). But a healthy life with my two Pembroke Corgi's on the sea side of South of Britain, Cornwall or so. Living in The Netherlands, but always very anglo-minded ;-)

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for your comment! Yes I love the 288 GTO. What a beautiful car - but always out of my reach -£3M now I believe. Thanks for watching, please subscribe!

[@christian-van-e]

@@sportscarstory Will subscribe! And, 3 million: that's only to buy it, but I'm afraid that Italian cars (in general, but especially from that era) need a lot of money for maintenance ;-)

[@tockingwatches2377]

I started my business in 2020, and last year I purchased my lifelong dream of a 1980’s Porsche 911. Mine is a 1982 euro spec Super Carrera. I relate to your sentiment that my dream of business ownership as well as accomplishing other goals along the way, have paved a path for at least 15 other people so far who I expect are better off because of my actions. I hope that translates to hundreds of people over the next couple years.

[@sportscarstory]

Exactly the point I was clumsily trying to make in my video. The benefits to UK PLC if our ambition and dreams is unmeasurable. Thanks for watching! Please subscribe, I value your opinion.

[@gregdurrans]

Love mine. Owned it 10 years now and treated myself following sale of business. Pop up headlights, screaming v8, open gate gear box. All the senses touched by a 355 like no other car. As for today’s halo product, I’m not sure as ownership isn’t the same, stuff like this is debt theses days. Probably buying a house is now the aim for ambitious young people.

[@sportscarstory]

Exactly right. 355 is the Perfect sports car. Thanks for watching!

[@radekdrab5993]

Great story! My object of aspiration was Aston Martin V12 Vantage. Got one, love it😄

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. Should have mentioned the V12 Vantage. Don’t know why I didn’t. Another gold nugget car. Should have been my noughties example. How many people have used car aspiration to achieve success? Thanks for watching, more coming.

[@Dwelijan]

You‘re speaking exactly the same language and express the same urge I felt always for a F355. I still lust after one and was pretty sure I‘d own one too. I did exactly the same test drive by the time I was not really in the position to buy one, but it didn’t matter. I wanted to know how it feels and what it does to me. We‘ll see. I started my own business but I‘m also working full-time in the Automotive industry, which is also because of me sitting in a F355 Spider back in 1997. Anyway: Coming back to your question. I am a 100% F355 customer but I would also want the Lexus LC500. It has a great presence, is elegant, has an amazing sounding V8, is equally impractical - and is an Automotive gem 💎. I want one as much as I want a F355, but knowing about my grown up personality, I don’t need necessarily the prancing horse on my hood, but people who know, they know. ❤

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I get you. I’m not interested in showing off. It’s all about the looks - & that amazing engine! Thanks for watching! Please subscribe!

[@alansuess6704]

A classmate of mine at the University of Miami had a 355 spyder (red) and was nice enough to give me a ride. Cheers

[@sportscarstory]

355 spiders just give you more chance to hear the noise! Thanks for watching! Subscribe to see my Lamborghini LP640 roadster manual. It’s nearly finished!

[@kevbo2750]

F355 Spider is my summer daily driver. All around great car.

[@sportscarstory]

They really are great cars aren’t they? Fast enough, handle really well, lovely noise. Thanks for watching- more coming!

[@bingo_madara]

my dream car.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! & mine. Thanks for watching!

[@bill4632]

This looks great in silver, too. Nice ride.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks. Yes silver really shows the lines. Thanks for watching!

[@JohnBaxendale]

Beautiful car! They look somehow more modern in silver too!

[@sportscarstory]

Yes I think the silver really works for a 355. Thanks for watching!

[@norwegianblue2017]

Gorgeous car! That blend of the sleek 90s build and Ferrari's artistry and a perfect blend.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! I agree! Thanks for watching!

[@ericcarson342]

One of my favorites. F355, and 550 Maranello. Something about 90s cars. F40/F50 and Enzo are special too, but these first 2 are within reach. The lines, the low profile doors, the pop-up lights, just an overall clean look.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. 90’s Ferrari’s definitely ticked every box. & they were - Just - attainable. Thanks for watching. Please subscribe, more coming.

[@DanielHillCoaching]

I'm now onto this video and that Ferrari 288 GTO at 2:48 is the ex-Patrick Collection car '426 GTO' that I'd visit as a teenager. Noel Edmonds bought it and had it 4 years or so, and put about 4,000kms on it. I can't afford a real one - like most of us at $4M - so I have a replica I'm tuning to do the 395bhp. There's a video of her on my channel just after I bought her, before huge work to make her look more genuine. More work this winter. Cutting the roof off and making her a tin top being one! Anyway great channel!

[@sportscarstory]

Oh , I’ll have a look at that. The 288 GTO is the one that got away for me. I could have - nearly - bought one in the early noughties for £150k. I couldn’t really afford it bit maybe I could have?! What’s your channel called?

[@DanielHillCoaching]

@@sportscarstory Oh if only you had a crystal ball! 13 years ago they were as 'cheap' as £400k. I saw a Barkaway's video from 2011 talking about one at Brooklands and was astonished when he said how little they were. Just click on my name and it'll take you to it. It was from 3 years ago. It's one of 2 MR2 builds that subsequently got a cease and desist as they weren't going to allow the 288 GTO cheapened in such a way so I am super lucky. The sister car has a 3L V6, but I've got the 2GR-FE unit used in the Lotus Evora, Emira and the Exige 3, the 3.5L V6. I'm having an engine upgrade this winter to match the original GTO's performance but it'll probably eclipse that. I've vlogged my 3 year journey with her on TikTok and Instagram as 'Daniel Hill Coaching'. I'll launch a KZbin channel just for her this winter called 'MR288GTO' as I've got a lot of footage this last 3 years. I love your presenting style and taste in cars sir! I'll make sure to give you a follow right away!

[@2373stevieb]

Hats off to you for taking it up Culver Down for the photo shoot. I live on the island and have gotten in trouble up there in a four wheel drive! Mind you, that was in the winter.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, it was a worry that I’d ground the nose. But it’s such an amazing spot. Have you seen the Triumph stag video we filmed up there?

[@Pulsonar]

I remember exactly 30 years ago being awe struck by the ‘Performance Car’ article on the Ferrari 355 (I still have the magazine edition in plastic wrapping) I’ve been a Porsche 911 fan all my life, an acquired evolving taste. But the devastating beauty, the stellar performance and the rave reviews of the 355 turned my head completely 180. I still love the 911 in different variants and guises, but the 355 along with the hugely underrated 456 GT will always be my grail cars.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I neglected to say, I bought a 993 first, then a 996, & they were great cars (especially the 993) but as soon as I was able to buy a 355 , I felt I was in a different league. The Maserati 4200 I had after the first couple of 355’s was a disaster by the way. Thanks for watching! More coming!

[@j308s7]

For me,as a Ferrari owner,it's either 308 GTB of 458 Italia for pace and grace.Both were hits right from launch.Great video,I remember well reading about the 355 roadtests.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! I should have mentioned the 308. Gorgeous. 458 was the last naturally aspirated Fezza I think, so should have mentioned that too. Thanks for watching !

[@jasonforrester6522]

I was at Uni in the 90s skint. I walked into Ferrari Canary Wharf,, sat in a 355, salesman new I was a student, a friend didn’t even have the guts to walk in. I said one day I’m going to have one. I remember buying a magazine and a red VHS promo 355 cassette was taped to the mag. Gerhard B, driving it. I stuck a picture of the car on my drawing board at college as motivation. That car motivated so much I set our business up because of that @larinodesign emotion sitting in the car. Years later, I bought one from Nick Cartwright. He drove two with his son down to the workshop. Both carbon buckets, F1 and manual. He took me out in both, the sound and that F1 box just reminded me of Alesi for Ferrari. SOLD. I had both my dream cars in the garage 996 GT2 and 355F1. Sold the 355 years ago but now I want to put one back next to the GT2. Only sold it because I got into newer faster cars, but now I’m older, I realise what a mistake, the 355 is just perfect in every way. F1 and manual.

[@sportscarstory]

Great story! Similar to mine in that cars really motivated you. Yes I moved on from the 355 to Astons, Bentleys, McLaren, but I’ve realised the fun is the 90’s/ noughties cars. Thanks for watching! Please subscribe!

[@user-ht1ms4in8q]

Excellent inspirational video, mate. Nice work.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! I’m giving it a go on this KZbin thing. Subscribe to see more!

[@Supercruze]

Amazing story. I like red Ferraris, but I have to say that silver color on your current 355 looks amazing. Enjoy the ride.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks so much! Yes the silver really show up the lines. Thanks for watching!

[@cervelo9465]

i remember David Yu in Evo magazine. Many people could not really afford the Ferrari - but they bought them anyway.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I was one of those people I reckon! Thanks for watching!

[@karenandvlad]

Love your story ❤

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou so much! More coming, please subscribe.

[@GOLDENEYEAL]

I can relate to the first part of this video very well. You indeed need a fire, a want. To push thru and make it in this world. I havent started my business yet but my dream is a f430 or lambo gallardo. Its the dream that keeps me going and motivates me to work. Thoughts of a bigger house, or a bit more money just wouldnt be enough.

[@sportscarstory]

I agree. Keep feeding the fire. Visit a showroom or have a test drive. It worked for me! Thanks for watching!

[@geoffclarke3796]

Brilliant cars. I hired a 355 in the early 2000's for a weekend trip away to Dorset and loved it. It was a 1995 car so had the lovely non-airbag steering wheel and the thing that stood out apart from that wonderful screaming V8, was the gear change which is still the best I've experienced. The handling was confidence inspiring and the ride surprisingly good though I did find the steering a bit too light and lacking in feel. I very nearly bought one in 2004 but it was a time when speed cameras started popping up all over the pass so I wanted to start doing track days and I was worried about expensive bills. Love the colour of your car by the way.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks. Yes I wouldn’t necessarily have chosen a silver one, but I think it really shows up the lines. I probably would have hired one if I could have afforded it. Good move! The bills aren’t too bad. I think although it’s an engine out belts job, you tend to address everything else at the same time and have 3 years reliable/ cheap motoring. Thanks for watching!

[@doverivermedia3937]

Very motivating ! 👏. For me, it's a Sunseeker Superhawk 43. Exquisite ... 🇬🇧

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! Subscribe for more waffle!

[@Pulsonar]

A very good real world account and experience of Ferrari ownership. I got a pretty good view into what drives the obsession in owning an Italian exotic. The legendary race bred marque is only the beginning, if that lineage translates into a top quality build for customer road cars as well as performance then what more can anybody want. The 355 was one of the first exotics that had the fewest customer grumbles and the most praised, Ferrari basically struck the Gold jackpot when the 355 was launched.I really like the way he put his personal experiences his passion for Ferrari barely needs mentioning. I felt as if he was speaking to me alone 😂 Some of what he said reflected my thoughts and feelings about my own periodic obsession with one day owning an exotic and what I would need to do make the money to do that. I am a longtime lover of performance and sports cars, so it’s really refreshing and very inspiring when an actual exotic car owner isn’t shy about telling folks about what he did and how he went about making the money to buy his dream. I’m getting on a bit now but still young at heart and Maybe I’ll make it happen one day. Well done sir 🙏🏽

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou so much. I’m so pleased to have connected with you so profoundly. The 355 was / is an amazing car. Please keep watching my channel. I have more to say!

[@MPfor12C]

To answer your question… for me it’s a McLaren MP4-12C. Purchased 18mths ago. By far the most I’ve spent other than house purchase. For me it’s just not the superb looks, but the driving experience. The latter is as enjoyable at 30mph as it is considerably faster. Plus of course it’s good to fly the flag 👍

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, I had a 12C spider. Ruthlesly efficient car. It was the fastest car I’ve ever had by far. Servicing costs were high then. I believe they are much cheaper now?

[@commasNculture]

Wicked color and that navy blue spider is picturesque

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. Miss that Spider. The noise was epic! Thanks for watching, more coming.

[@johnmohanmusic]

Honestly, I think this is one of the best, if not THE best videos I have ever seen on KZbin. As soon as I post this, I will hit the Like button and subscribe to this channel. My own story is similar, though I never have bought the car that inspired me to start and develop my (Video Production) business back in the day. For me, it was a Ferrari 328 GTSi. I would work my new business through the day, and then late into the night, editing the productions my young, fledgling company was creating. And then, though it was very late (one, two, or even three in the morning), on my way home I would deviate off the 101 and stop by the Ferrari dealership on Ventura Blvd and gawk through the window at that red 328 GTSi on display in the showroom. That Ferrari literally helped pay the bills.

[@sportscarstory]

Well you’ve cheered me up today! I’m so glad I’ve struck a chord with you. I should have mentioned a 328 for the 1980’s because it’s an absolutely gorgeous car. I can see why it was your inspiration. Thanks for subscribing! Have you seen my other videos yet? I wouldn’t mind your thoughts on them.

[@AR-uy8yr]

once said a great man “its painfully beautiful”

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I agree. Almost perfect. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelgenias8491]

I love the F355 serious best Ferrari and the only one that I would considering I'm a porsche guy. The majority of young people are not into cars anymore the way we were staring in the show room windows and going to motor shows dreaming of the day id own one😊😊😊

[@sportscarstory]

I agree. Cars really fueled our fires. Not just some of us, many of us! I love Porsches too, but my experience of them ended with the 996. 993 was my high water Porsche Thanks for watching!

[@IrishManJT]

Fantastic. I love the F355 and spotted a silver one like this driving through Dublin back in April of this year. It also had the coolest of reg plates too - GTS 355N. A 981 Cayman S owner. 😎

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! Great plate. Caymen S is a hellofacar ! Thanks again!

[@thejohnson9204]

Great story. Thanks for sharing bud. It's a weird thing how a car can effect a person.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, cars have always been a huge motivation for me. Thanks for watching!

[@jf8085]

I always loved this Ferrari, remember seeing Howard Donald driving a silver one just like yours down Deansgate Manchester in the 90’s. Yellow with black mesh rear grill is my pick.

[@sportscarstory]

My second one had the rear challenge grill. It really gave it a no nonsense look. I remember seeing that car in Manchester too! Thanks for watching!

[@bluetitan20]

I just came across your 355 ownership story, thanks to KZbin's suggestion 😉 The 355 has always been and will continue to be, one of the prettiest cars ever to drive on a road. Between this and the equally terrific 550 Maranello, it was the beginning of a golden era, for Ferrari that many could say, is still going strong. Luca di Montezemolo should take a lot of credit for what came out of Maranello from the mid 90's on. The best example I've ever seen, was a stunning GTS, early manual car, small steering wheel and finished in absolutely stunning combination of Verde with a Tan interior. While I will never be in a position to even think about owning one, I've had the great pleasure just seeing one as it drove into a car park, many many years ago. It didn't disappoint 😎 Oh and did I mention the noise......😀 You have a truly stunning 355, love it finished in that silver colour. Maybe a dark red interior would also suit the silver exterior. Enjoy it and keep driving it 👍

[@sportscarstory]

I think a dark red interior on a silver car is a great combination. Thanks for watching. I hope you get your own 355 one day! - in Verde of course.

[@bluetitan20]

@@sportscarstory Maybe if miracles happen ;) Hopefully I'll be able to keep following your 355 adventures at least 👍

[@sportscarstory]

Yes they’ll be many more 355 adventures- also check out my Murcielago manual conversion. That car is such a a crazy monster of a thing!

[@bluetitan20]

@@sportscarstory Ah nice, I didn't see that.I'll be sure to have a look for the videos on that as well 😄

[@handlebarmoustache7047]

I would love a green one! Truly a beautiful car, congratulations.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for watching! More coming!

[@gaycha6589]

Looks so pretty in silver. Last beautiful Ferrari design imho

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou. I agree! Subscribe for more achingly beautiful cars.

[@gairnmclennan5876]

I think all most any high performance car from the 60's right through to the early 2000's is desirable. American muscle cars. Australian coupes and cars of Europe and Japan. They have to be analogue. These are cars even the young guys and girls like. They are cars with character and in many cases a race history. They are rare and gain value.

[@sportscarstory]

I agree that’s the golden era. Thanks for watching!

[@wallyr.7854]

80s was the Testarossa ❤. Great story and video, gorgeous 355 (all of them in your history) 😍.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks! Testarossa was amazing- though V12’s would have seemed unobtainable/ too big a stretch. So 80’s equivalent could be 328? Porsche turbo? Maybe a Dodge Viper? Don’t know why I said Delorean! I suppose they were exotic looking but not that expensive. Any other ideas?

[@wallyr.7854]

@@sportscarstory I think you were thinking Back to the Future fame, lol, having said that, even though that the DeLorean turned out to be a disappointing car in regards to performance, it’s still an icon of the 80s and a car I actually would not mind having as part of my stable someday. But you’re right, perhaps the 308 / 328 would be the “attainable” poster cars of the 80s 👍🏼

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I’ve had a Delorean. It looked great but drove me mad with its weak engineering. I’m going to be doing a review on that very car soon, so stay subscribed!

[@wallyr.7854]

@@sportscarstory Looking forward to it 👍🏼

[@Clipaview]

Fantastic video love the message you’re giving out. The 355 is the best for me striving for one currently. I am a professional drone pilot would love to get some content for you if you ever would like some. Keep it up ❤️❤️

[@sportscarstory]

Keep striving! Where are you based?

[@ZondaF355]

Its so rare that meeting your heroes lives up to expectations. I agree sir the 355 exceeds expectations. That is very rare in my car experience. The Viper is another one that is even better than expected. I have found the F355 Spider to be just amazing with a gated box and the Tubi soundtrack. Hard to beat that driving experience for any amount of money. 355s that have been driven a bit and well maintained are very reliable as well contrary to what the internet says.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for your comment. Yes, should have given a mention to the Viper. What a car! Not so common on this side of the pond, and only LHD, but a fabulous- & also attainable sports car. Thanks for watching!

[@ldwp6395]

2000's born, so out of thr young adults I know, it's 911 gt3's, Huracan's (mostly because they take to twin turbo's better than the v12's) and Rolls Phantoms, but it has to be more than one car. There's alot of "I would have to have something sensible" and it not sensible at all. For me there's stages of dream cars, sub 10k, sub 50k, sub 100k, sub 250k and then the multimillion stuff. Find myself more interested in the sub 100k than the millionaire stuff, even though a Zonda and an Enzo would be good. Probably the "made it" car would be an LP640 coupe.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes LP640 is great (I’ve got one subscribe to see) but when I was starting out Lambos were so expensive they were unobtainable to me. A 355 was doable. The equivalent now I suppose would be R8’s, 911 GT3’s and yes Hurricans. Thanks for watching!

[@sutats]

My jobseeker's allowance is getting in the way of things but a Gemballa Mirage GT will do me just fine.

[@sportscarstory]

Well yes,,it would! What a car! Have you started formulating a plan as to how you’re going to get one?

[@DrivenAmbition]

I own quite a few cars and the one that seams capture the hearts of a generation is the Lamborghini Aventadore !

[@sportscarstory]

I agree that’s a hell of a car. But less attainable than a 355 was. For example, In my time. I wouldn’t have aimed at a Diablo as it was very expensive . I suppose the equivalent today would be an Aston vantage or a Huracan ?

[@SunKing968]

Great video and congrats on getting your dream car (several times!)! I did too- mine is a Porsche 968 Club Sport

[@sportscarstory]

968 club sport’s are great cars too. My brothers dream. Thanks for watching!

[@gregoryfranks7347]

this is the prettiest 355 berlinetta ever. silver has always been so classy yet weapons grade . there's only 2 ferrari's after '67 that I love or desire. ones a PISTA the other is a 355. I've only driven 1 but I loved Enzo but I rented a Spyder and drove it through red rocks in Vegas. we only lucked out because 348 were contracted had an issue. I've never been anything but a berlinetta fan I discovered why. my brother a couple years later bought a 993 turbo with now still 18k worth a fortune. I took a different path but still forgot more about cars hot rods than all his knowledge. I love all cars but grew up when you didn't see them they were also not supercars then, exotics was the term. my dad taught me everything he knew about cars being a car guy himself(RIP) I did have a few lucky breaks. I used to drag race mustangs had a bunch before my incarceration sabbatical but never lost my love. I liver boxers and 400's but I get up in the morning to see my RUF posters on my way out my door. that's what I get up for o do my small landscaping business. my one day with as much hard work as you my luck might come again. truly and stunning specced 355 sir. enjoy and now I will dream about my UK heritage in my turbo r . outstanding story and video. cheers

[@sportscarstory]

Than you so much for your comment. If I lived in the States I would def have a Mustang or Corvette. They’re the right cars for your huge roads. I’m glad you liked my little video. We’re trying to do a different KZbin channel. Please subscribe to see more. Have you seen my Stag story?

[@gregoryfranks7347]

@@sportscarstory not yet but am going thru your back videos. have you seen what's a car week. I you don't know what I mean than. probably not. how cool would a f40 LM look in this color?????? mind bending!!!!

[@sportscarstory]

Yes would be really cool!

[@normsallitt2753]

Another great video and story. Thank you for sharing, and cheers from across the pond.

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! I appreciate it!

[@VishalGupta-od5mf]

Something 'tangible' to inspire and motivate you. Thank you for sharing your story. I agree, cars do change your life. Where do you service your car from?

[@sportscarstory]

I service the Ferrari and Lamborghini at SB RACE ENGINEERING. They’re very very good. Thanks for watching!

[@lamboman2]

The 80’s was COUNTACH! And yes, I got one.

[@sportscarstory]

Jealous of that! I excluded the unobtainable in my head (I wanted to concentrate on cars just within financial reach) But then I mentioned my Murci so I broke my own rules, so yes you’re right! Thanks for watching!

[@samuel999]

I'm 32 and I just bought my childhood dream... an S1 Elise. I'd love to work up to a few more cars in my collection - a Wheeler-era TVR, Morgan 3-Wheeler and F355 among others. Except for the Morgan, no real love for anything produced after '08.

[@sportscarstory]

S1 Elise’s are the purest driving experience you can get. I vividly remember my first go in one. Great car! Yes keep working. Maybe a Griff next?

[@johndavey72]

Have to say the Silver sits so well on the 355. But your FHC is my delight but l'd love to have a try the 355 . And you're so right about todays robotic , mundane , rubbish ! Thanks ❤

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for your comment! I’m going to do a video comparing the e type to a 355. Stay subscribed! Thanks for watching!

[@stevesas632]

An F1 box though. After all the ones you had, ended up with the worst one, & silver as well. Good story & great achievement nonetheless. Absolutely cars have become nothing more than boxes on wheels these days. A car should make you feel involved in & a special event every time you open the door.

[@sportscarstory]

I agree. Yes ended up with an F1! But I’ve got all the bits for a manual conversion. Good news is that the second gear synchros are a lot stronger on an F1! I’ll feature the conversion in a future video. Thanks for watching!

[@KhanKhan-ss6dj]

Great content keep it up Hard works pays off

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks very much! Yes hard work & a bit of luck gets you where you want to be. What car inspired you?

[@KhanKhan-ss6dj]

​@sportscarstory no car as inspired me to be honest main thing for me was to have a roof over my head But 355 is on the list Do have an old jap car Had a pearl white gtd which unfortunately got stolen Love to have a 993 turbo

[@markspencer757]

Loving the Steed replica story, you are totally spot on. What do people aspire for, long for today! with me, it was learning to drive, then have my own car, not quite as stunning as yours, but for me, it was a Mk2 Cavalier SRi130, then a Calibra Turbo, with a poster of a Testarossa and Countach on my wall lol Car's don't inspire like they used to, sad times.

[@sportscarstory]

First really fast car I drove was my bosses SRi Cavelier Got caught by the police on the M4 during the miners strike. They let me off cause they were over stretched & had chased me from Avon into Wiltshire (which would double their paperwork).

[@markspencer757]

@@sportscarstory ha ha ha brilliant

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks! Great times!

[@ldlm91]

thanks for sharing your story. the 355 definitively is one of the best looking cars ever. my dream car currently is an r35 gt-r but I don't think it motivates me for my business. the business motivation is just the accomplishment more than anything else. having a house and safe retirement is the most majority can only hope for. they have killed the love for the cars with all the regulations and constant demonising. plus most modern cars are too fast anyway and most of them look horrible

[@sportscarstory]

I totally agree. The era is ending. But get a great car while you still can ! Thanks for watching! More coming.

[@amgpagoda]

I bought my 355 from Dan at Slades, top man

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. I’ve known him a long time and he’s very fair.

[@actionarslan]

I broke off to do my own work, and it’s owning a Ferrari that drives me

[@sportscarstory]

& the thought of owning one will help you get there! Thanks for watching ! Good luck!

[@lionsgarage]

Thanks for the inspiring story, I am the same. I have always wanted this car since things like youtube started and I got to see and hear this car and if I am really lucky an F50 also. What was the business if I may ask?

[@sportscarstory]

Initially it was I.T recruitment. That business is still going with one of protégés in charge. I now run a software house. Thanks for watching! Please subscribe. Kind Rgds, Pete

[@MattH-wg7ou]

Gotdam its beautiful!! These and the 550. Amazingly beautiful!

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, I love the 550 too. Both achingly gorgeous. Thanks for watching!

[@humandroid53]

That silver one!!! 👌

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! Yes it’s a beautiful car!

[@Ztacken]

What a lovely story 😊

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks so much! I hope it inspires others.

[@MsAston007]

If you watch any of the Fast and Furious movies you’ll see that tuner cars are the rage of the youth. Reminds me of the Hot Rod era after WW2.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes that makes sense - saying that, the Fast and furious franchise is dating now. - probably 10 yrs since its glory days! Thanks for watching! More coming.

[@maninahat1417]

great post

[@sportscarstory]

Glad you enjoyed it! It was from the heart! Thanks for watching. More coming.

[@davidthomas1424]

What a great video and story. You are however wrong. Your passion and celebration of things is what you allowed to change your life, and that is expressed in your thoughts of the way in which others lives may have been changed - and of course the story of your wife heading out on track first at Donington 👍😀 The 355 looks stunning in silver. Thank you.

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks for your comments- interesting perspective, & probably right. Keep watching, I appreciate it!

[@clubracer6]

Wonderful and inspiring story!

[@sportscarstory]

Thankyou! It’s true. I love 355’s. My love has spread into other cars too. Subscribe to see LP640, e type’s XJVC. Thanks for watching.

[@logwind]

Beautiful car, but many have said a nightmare to own. Looks terrific in every color especially white and silver. What's desirable now? Porsche nearly stands alone as a manufacturer still making both beautiful and exciting enthusiast cars with manual gearboxes.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes I think you’re right. Porsches still hanging on. Thanks for watching!

[@josephdonnelly3169]

Beautiful car in any color, I’m truly jealous!

[@sportscarstory]

I am glad you like it. It’s a fabulous thing. What object of desire do kids dream of these days do you reckon?

[@josephdonnelly3169]

@@sportscarstory with the electric era upon us it’s hard to say, even mid level exotics like Audi R8 are stopping production. Also not a fan of the newly popular auto transmissions

[@sportscarstory]

Yes. Options are running out. True manual sports cars are very rare now.

[@josephdonnelly3169]

@@sportscarstory Aston Martin currently has a few models in 2023 and current for this year that are pretty interesting available in manual. They of course aren’t cheap

[@sportscarstory]

Yes but too expensive. I think a manual 911 is the only semi reasonable option now.

[@paulwdarlington]

Great video

[@sportscarstory]

Thanks! It was from the heart. More coming, please subscribe.

[@malanne1]

Kids nowadays aspire to own nissan R34 GTRs and Toyota AE86s because of the car driving video games.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes that makes sense. I should have asked my son! Thanks for watching.

[@harrio7769]

Beautiful car! Especially in that silver. Except for one thing; that UK sticker on the back.

[@sportscarstory]

I know. I hate it. Going abroad again soon though…. Thanks for watching!

[@VishalGupta-od5mf]

No modern car inspires me, that I dream of or gets me out of bed. The fun of deiving has gone with so many pot holes, speed cameras, speed humps and so many idiots on the road driving their SUVs and boy racer cars. The best time was in the 90s when I was most excited about cars. That time will never come back.

[@sportscarstory]

Unfortunately you’re right. Thanks for watching!

[@markm6040]

The youth aspires to the Nissan GT-R. R35, R34, R33 and R32 - the next generation’s most coveted cars.

[@sportscarstory]

Yes, I think you’re right. The PlayStation loved the GT-R. But bear in mind they are way over 10 years old now. What new cars do the kids covet?

[@yourcarpro7072]

Kids and young adults seem to value travel and experiences more than cars these days. Gone is the mystique of what it would be like to drive a fast car, when your next-door neighbour's Tesla can out run most supercars. Working less and living life more seems to be the driver for young blood! (Can't say I blame them either).

[@sportscarstory]

I agree. There are petrol heads, but there are far fewer. & you’re right, my Tesla will beat even my Lambo 0-60 which absurd, but strangely not that much fun without the drama. Thanks for watching!