Evoluto Automobili, a British start-up, has unveiled its first car, the Evoluto 355, which is a restomod based on the Ferrari F355. The company claims that the Evoluto 355 is the “antidote” to modern supercars, offering a more classic and timeless design. One of the key features of the Evoluto 355 is its new bodywork, designed by Ian Callum, which aims to provide a more modern look without compromising the clean lines of the original Ferrari F355. The front end of the car has been reworked with a larger grille and a carbon fiber lip, while the sidelights and pop-up headlights have been replaced with new LED units. The rear end also gets a similar treatment, with a large diffuser and ring-shaped LED brake lights. These new panels are all made from carbon fiber, reducing the car’s weight from 1422 kg in the original Ferrari F355 GTS to a “target” of 1250 kg.
In addition to the lightweight bodywork, the Evoluto 355’s chassis has been spot welded and reinforced with carbon fiber bracing to improve torsional stiffness by 23%. These reinforcements are concentrated around key areas such as the suspension mountings, enhancing handling and stability. The F355’s V8 engine has also been overhauled by Evoluto, with improvements made to reliability and tractability. A new ignition system provides more precise ignition timing, resulting in improved power output and engine responsiveness. The cylinder head has been ported for better airflow, and a bespoke camshaft improves stability at high revs. Moreover, the quill shaft, which connects the powerplant to the gearbox, has been replaced with a stronger part made by Evoluto, reducing vibration and improving drivetrain power losses.
As a result of these modifications, the 3.5-liter V8 engine now produces a total output of 420 horsepower, 40 more than the factory rating of 380 horsepower. The car retains its original six-speed manual gearbox, which has been modified for improved shift feel. To handle the increased power-to-weight ratio, the suspension has been redesigned with a wider track, and the brakes have been upgraded to modern Brembo slotted discs. Carbon-ceramic discs are also available for track drivers. However, the new chassis setup is not intended to provide unflappable stability. Evoluto deliberately chose to use road-biased Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires to allow some slip from the rear end, adding an element of excitement to the driving experience.
Evoluto plans to build 55 units of the Evoluto 355, with pricing yet to be revealed. Customers will have the opportunity to customize their cars with custom paint finishes and interior upholstery. The car was unveiled at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed and will make its public debut at Monterey Car Week next month.
Overall, the Evoluto 355 offers a unique blend of classic design and modern performance upgrades. With its lightweight carbon fiber bodywork, improved chassis, and enhanced engine, it promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that combines the best of both worlds – the timeless appeal of a classic Ferrari and the performance of a modern supercar.