Evoluto's Ferrari F355 Restomod: Production Starts with 9,000 RPM V8
Evoluto Automobili's eagerly anticipated '355 by Evoluto' project, a reimagined version of the iconic Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, is officially moving into production. This ambitious endeavor brings modern engineering and performance enhancements to a revered classic, promising an unparalleled driving experience. After extensive validation and testing, the British firm is set to deliver the first units by the end of the year, offering a blend of nostalgic aesthetics and contemporary automotive prowess.
In the evolving landscape of high-end automotive restorations, Evoluto Automobili stands out with its meticulously crafted '355 by Evoluto.' Unveiled initially in 2024, this project transforms the Ferrari F355 Berlinetta into a modern masterpiece without compromising its original charm. The team at Evoluto has recently confirmed that the final production prototype has successfully passed engineering sign-off, having undergone rigorous validation testing that included 5,000 miles of track use and an impressive 10,000 miles of engine testing. Production is slated to begin in March, with a final 20,000-mile durability assessment scheduled for April. Customers can anticipate receiving their bespoke vehicles in the fourth quarter of the current year.
A central highlight of the '355 by Evoluto' is its re-engineered naturally aspirated V8 engine. While the standard 3.5-liter unit produces a robust 414 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque with an 8,500 rpm redline, Evoluto also offers an optional 3.7-liter version that pushes the boundaries further. This upgraded engine delivers an impressive 474 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a thrilling 9,000 rpm redline. These enhanced power plants feature robust internal components, specialized high-lift camshafts, and optimized valvetrain and fuel systems, all designed for sustained high-speed performance and an exhilarating auditory experience.
Beyond the powertrain, the '355 by Evoluto' boasts a comprehensive suite of hardware upgrades that significantly improve upon the original Maranello design. The vehicle features wider front and rear tracks, supported by new suspension components including upper and lower arms, uprights, wheel bearings, and anti-roll bar drop links. Stopping power is dramatically increased with massive Brembo brakes, featuring six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear. These modifications contribute to a more stable and controlled ride, particularly during dynamic maneuvers and high-speed cornering. The vehicle also benefits from a quicker steering ratio, a refined hydraulic power steering system, and extensive use of carbon fiber throughout, particularly in the driver-focused cabin that intentionally eschews digital displays for a purer, analog experience. The strategic application of carbon fiber has resulted in a substantial weight reduction, bringing the car's mass down to a targeted 2,756 pounds, approximately 220 pounds lighter than the original F355 Berlinetta. This meticulous attention to detail and performance comes with a premium price tag, with starting costs around $800,000, exclusive of the donor car's value. Evoluto Automobili plans to produce only 55 units of this exceptional restomod.
The journey of the '355 by Evoluto' from concept to production underscores a growing trend in the automotive world: the meticulous re-engineering of classic cars to meet modern performance and luxury standards. Evoluto Automobili has not only revived the aesthetic appeal of the Ferrari F355 Berlinetta but has also imbued it with advanced mechanical and structural enhancements, creating a vehicle that is both a tribute to its heritage and a beacon of contemporary automotive craftsmanship.