Does Clarkson Have Sufficient Influence to Enhance This Ferrari’s Worth? | Carscoops

      During his time at Top Gear, JC decided he had to own this GTS, leading him to place an order for it, and it is now set to be auctioned.

      The well-known journalist had the car for under four years, driving it a mere 6,000 miles.

      RM Sotheby’s predicts that this low-mileage F355 may fetch a higher price than its original MSRP.

      Bidders will be pleased to know that it has recently been serviced and undergone a complete paint correction.

      There is a sense of melancholy regarding Ferrari’s current offerings, and it’s not merely the outrageous prices. The true sadness lies in the fact that Ferrari no longer produces naturally aspirated V8 engines. For many years, few things were as desirable as a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine from Maranello positioned right behind the driver.

      It comes as no surprise that collectors are willing to spend large sums to possess one of these treasures, particularly if it’s in immaculate condition.

      The vehicle in question is a 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS that is scheduled for auction in the UK next month. When it was new, its price was about £90,000 (~$120,000), which translates to approximately £181,000 (~$242,000) in today’s currency.

      According to RM Sotheby’s, nearly 30 years after its production, it could potentially sell for as much as £220,000, or around $295,000 based on current exchange rates. This is a significant amount, especially considering a newer (and arguably better) 360 Modena can be purchased for under $100,000.

      One of the primary reasons this F355 could command such a high price is that it was ordered new by former Top Gear and The Grand Tour presenter Jeremy Clarkson. After testing the vehicle, Clarkson felt compelled to possess one for himself, taking delivery of it in August 1996.

      As a GTS, it features a removable targa top and is finished in Ferrari’s classic Rosso Corsa. Clarkson claimed it was the best car he had ever driven at that time.

      He drove the car for around 6,000 miles (approximately 9,600 km) before it was raffled off in a contest held by The Sunday Times. The winner kept it for several years before it changed hands again to a third owner, who retained it for a decade until 2013. It was subsequently sold to the current owner, who had it serviced extensively while also receiving a full paint correction.

      Currently, this F355 has accumulated 14,899 miles (23,977 km), which is impressively low for a vehicle of its age. Its value is further enhanced by its rare sports seats, adorned in Crema leather with vibrant red inserts.

      Do you think you have enough money to participate? Take a look at the auction listing and consider joining in on the bidding for Clarkson’s Ferrari, then show off to anyone still driving a 360 Modena.