Remember that moment of sheer joy when Jeremy Clarkson declared the Ferrari F355 "the greatest car in the world, ever" in Jeremy Clarkson's Unleashed on Cars? That was many years ago, and now a 1996 F355 GTS with a rare manual gearbox and under 15,000 miles is to be sold at auction at RM Sotheby's at Cliveden House on July 8, 2025. The important question is: to what extent does Clarkson's ownership provide a genuine value increase?
A Ferrari with Star Power
Jeremy Clarkson ke purane fans ke liye, ye Ferrari F355 GTS nostalgia ka khojna hai. Is car ka sabse bada USP hai - Clarkson ka personal ownership. Car unhone 1996 mein kharidi, personally drive bhi kianthe, aur is car mein unka mashoor "driving test" film hui.
Highlights
- Personally owned and driven by Clarkson
- Featured in his video content
- Contains emotional value for fans
Solid Value Backed by Condition
The condition of this F355 GTS is a collector's dream. Not only is the mileage low (~14,899 miles), but there's also fully documented recent servicing and restoration including new steering rack, belt replacement, and paint correction done at the finest level.
Highlights
- Low mileage < 15,000
- Fully documented specialist servicing
- Rare Miami Red paint + sports seats
Clarkson Clout: Real or Hype?
Jeremy Clarkson's name is an emotional brand in the classic car auction space. RM Sotheby's as well seems to understand that some value will result from the name value. People are referring to this Ferrari as Clarksons signature model on Reddit forums and enthusiast communities.
Highlights
- Clarkson's ownership provides premium value
- The online buzz is building auction hype
- This may ultimately sell for 10 – 20% more than average for the same car/model.
Why the F355 Still Matters
F355 GTS ke shaukeen logon ke liye, ye sirf ek car nahi hai—it’s a gateway to Ferrari’s golden era. Manual transmission, naturally-aspirated V8, ‘90s styling—all boxes ticked. In today’s turbocharged, automated world, it is the rawness of this car that is the greatest asset.
Highlights
- Last of the naturally aspirated V8 Ferraris
- Manual transmission is rare & desirable
- Seen as a future appreciating asset
Spec Sheet at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Model | 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS |
| Engine | 3.5‑L naturally aspirated V8, ~380 hp |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual |
| Mileage | ~14,899 miles |
| Previous Owner | Jeremy Clarkson (1996–2000) |
| Service History | Recent belts, steering rack, MoT, paint correction |
| Auction Estimate | £180K–£220K (~$240K–$295K) |
| Auction Date & Venue | July 8, 2025 at Cliveden House via RM Sotheby’s |
Conclusion
When you come down to it, this isn't about a Ferrari, it's about the story that comes along with it. Jeremy Clarkson's name gives this F355 GTS a personal, cultural, and emotional context that you rarely find on another car. To a true petrolhead, a collector, or even just a Top Gear fan, this is like owning an automotive television show. Could that story add to the car's value at auction? Maybe. But for sure this Ferrari has more personality, and quite possibly more investment value, than most of today's modern supercars.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
