Unleashing the Beast: Evoluto 355 Combines Classic Ferrari Charm with Modern Magic
For those who find modern supercars too sterile, British start-up Evoluto Automobili has an antidote: the Evoluto 355. This restomod project, based on the iconic Ferrari F355, offers the timeless appeal of a classic supercar enhanced by contemporary engineering know-how. With design led by renowned automotive designer Ian Callum, the Evoluto 355 promises a perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance.
Reimagined Elegance
The first thing that strikes about the Evoluto 355 is its refreshed appearance. Ian Callum's design expertise is evident in every curve and contour, retaining the clean lines of the original F355 while incorporating modern touches. The front end has been reimagined with a larger grille and a sleek carbonfiber lip, while new LED units replace the sidelights and classic pop-up headlights. The rear is equally impressive, sporting a large diffuser and distinctive ring-shaped LED brake lights.
Every panel of the car now boasts carbonfiber construction, significantly reducing its weight from the original 1422 kilograms to a 'target' of 1250 kilograms, depending on a customer’s exact specifications. This lightweight bodywork complements the car's improved agility and handling, making it an on-track marvel and an off-track spectacle.
Chassis and Mechanical Brilliance
Beyond the aesthetics, the Evoluto 355 undergoes significant mechanical transformations. The car's chassis is spot-welded and reinforced with carbonfiber bracing, boosting torsional stiffness by an incredible 23%. These reinforcements are strategically placed around critical areas like the suspension mountings, enhancing handling and stability.
The heart of the Evoluto 355, its V8 engine, has been meticulously overhauled to focus on reliability and drivability. A new ignition system ensures precise timing, thereby improving power output and responsiveness. Major internal reworks include porting the cylinder head for better airflow and incorporating a bespoke camshaft that enhances stability at high revs. Moreover, the notorious quill shaft connecting the engine to the gearbox has also been replaced with a strengthened Evoluto part, minimizing vibration and drivetrain power losses.
Uncompromised Performance
The performance upgrades don’t stop with the engine. The Evoluto 355 features a full-length titanium exhaust system equipped with equal-length headers, creating an 'emotional' exhaust note that is both intoxicating and exhilarating. The engine's output is now a robust 420bhp, up from the factory-rated 380bhp of the original F355's 3.5-litre V8.
To manage this increased power, the original six-speed manual gearbox has been refined for better shift feel. Handling is further optimized with redesigned suspension featuring a wider track, while the braking system has been upgraded to modern Brembo slotted discs. For those taking the Evoluto 355 to the racetrack, optional carbon-ceramic discs provide the ultimate stopping power. Unlike many modern sports cars that prioritize absolute stability, the Evoluto 355 delivers a more engaging driving experience, thanks to road-biased Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on new 19-inch wheels, allowing just the right amount of slip from the rear end.
The Modern-Day Classic
The Evoluto 355 stands as a worthy tribute to its Ferrari forebear, combining classic design elements with cutting-edge technology. It's a car that not only celebrates automotive history but also redefines it for modern-day enthusiasts. Whether you are a connoisseur of vintage Ferrari aesthetics or someone seeking the best of both old and new worlds, the Evoluto 355 delivers in exceptional style and flair.