TGR StaffFew names in the world of motorsport command as much reverence as Michael Schumacher. A seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, Schumacher’s legacy transcends the track, becoming a symbol of excellence, precision, and dominance. Now, a tangible piece of his illustrious career, a 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS, is set to cross the auction block—a vehicle that tells a story as compelling as the man who once drove it.
The Ferrari F355 GTS: A Modern Classic
In 1996, Ferrari was in the midst of a transformation. The F355 GTS, introduced just a year earlier, was a car that perfectly encapsulated the brand’s dedication to combining breathtaking design with cutting-edge performance. With its 3.5-liter V8 engine producing 375 horsepower, a six-speed manual gearbox, and a top speed of 183 mph, the Ferrari F355 GTS was a technical marvel of its time. Its design, penned by Pininfarina, remains timeless, blending elegant curves with aggressive aerodynamics.
This particular F355 GTS, finished in the rare and striking Blu Le Mans over Pelle Crema leather, stands apart from the usual Rosso Corsa Ferraris of its era. This unique color combination, personally chosen by Schumacher, reflects a personality unafraid to break from tradition—a sentiment echoed in his trailblazing career.
Schumacher’s Ferrari F355 GTS
When Michael Schumacher joined Scuderia Ferrari in 1996, he wasn’t just a driver; he was a beacon of hope for a team eager to reclaim its former glory. As part of his welcome to Maranello, Schumacher was gifted this very Ferrari F355 GTS. More than a mere perk, the car symbolized Ferrari’s commitment to its new star driver.
Built in early 1996, the car was delivered to Weber Management GmbH, the company of Schumacher’s manager, Willi Weber. The timing was impeccable, arriving just days after the European Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, where Schumacher showcased his brilliance with a second-place finish. The car’s first recorded service took place at Monaco Motors on May 5, 1996, suggesting that it served as Schumacher’s companion during his residency in Monaco, a hub for the world’s elite.
Photographs and documentation confirm Schumacher’s connection to the car. A letter from Monaco Motors and a German newspaper clipping shows Schumacher behind the wheel in Monaco, cementing its provenance. These details and its Ferrari Classiche certification make this Ferrari F355 GTS a treasure for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
A Journey Through Time
The car’s journey didn’t end with Schumacher. In 2002, it changed hands, finding new owners in France before being acquired by its current caretaker in 2004. Purchased during the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, the car’s new owner was drawn not just by its beautiful specifications but also by its extraordinary history. Over the past two decades, the Ferrari F355 GTS has been cherished, maintained, and celebrated.
Under its current ownership, the car has been driven with enthusiasm, amassing just under 47,500 kilometers. It has graced the pages of renowned automotive publications, including Forza, Ferrari World, and Auto Trends. In 2017, it won Best of Show at Spa Italia, a testament to its immaculate condition and enduring appeal.
In 2020, the car achieved Ferrari Classiche certification, affirming its authenticity. While its original engine has been replaced, the car retains an engine of the correct type. Rumors suggest the original powerplant may have been specially tuned for Schumacher, adding another layer of intrigue to its story.
A Ferrari Collector’s Dream
The Ferrari F355 GTS is a masterpiece in its own right, but its connection to Schumacher elevates it to a different echelon. The six-speed manual gearbox offers a tactile driving experience, a reminder of an era when driver skill took precedence over electronic aids. The Blu Le Mans paintwork and Pelle Crema interior exude sophistication, while its historical significance as Schumacher’s personal car makes it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Bidders will also appreciate the meticulous care this car has received. Its last major service, conducted in September 2024, included essential maintenance such as timing belt replacement, new rear brake pads, and dashboard restoration. These details ensure that the car is not just a static display piece but a machine ready to be enjoyed.
The Auction: A Date with Destiny
On February 4, 2025, this extraordinary piece of automotive and motorsport history will be offered without reserve at the RM Sotheby’s Paris Auction. The auction, set to captivate enthusiasts worldwide, represents more than a chance to own a Ferrari. It’s an opportunity to connect with the legacy of Michael Schumacher, a driver who redefined greatness.
As the bidding begins, the room will buzz with anticipation. Collectors and fans alike will vie for a car that embodies the spirit of a champion. Beyond its monetary value, this F355 GTS is a symbol of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence—values that Schumacher and Ferrari share.
Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari F355 GTS is more than just a car; it’s a chapter in the story of a legend. From the streets of Monaco to the pages of automotive history, it has been a witness to greatness. Now, as it prepares to embark on its next journey, one lucky bidder will not only acquire a car but a piece of the Schumacher legacy—a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Photos Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
