The Ferrari F355 is a modern classic, so beautifully proportioned and so meticulously engineered that it signalled a turning point in the marque’s philosophy, proving that a mid-engined V8 could be every bit as thrilling as a 12-cylinder Ferrari.

Launched in the spring of 1994, the F355 Berlinetta combined the familiar dimensions of its predecessor, the 348, with virtually every component reimagined.

Its sensuous coachwork was honed in the wind tunnel, creating a harmonious, aerodynamically efficient shape that incorporated a flat-bottom undertray and airflow channels to generate meaningful downforce, while retaining an timeless look that has rarely been surpassed.

Beneath its stunning skin, the longitudinally mounted 3,496cc V8 delivered a spine-tingling 380bhp at 8,250rpm, making it one of the most rev-happy, engaging engines of the era.

Torque was delivered eagerly across a broad band, while a 6-speed manual gearbox with a revised synchromesh made gear shifts far smoother than ...