Classic Jeremy Clarkson Ferrari once dubbed 'world’s greatest car' to hit auction

A classic 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS once owned by former Top Gear star Jeremy Clarkson could hit the hammer at auction for over £200,000. The Top Gear and Grand Tour host once dubbed the F355 the "greatest car in the world", making it one of Clarkson’s all-time favourites.

The car featured in the iconic 'Clarkson’s Car Years' TV Series and in his Sunday Times column. Amazingly, the model has only racked up 14,899 miles at cataloguing, meaning the model is in superb condition. The car will hit auction at RM Sotheby’s Cliveden House auction with an estimated sale price of £180,000 to £220,000.

RM Sotheby’s explained: "In the 1996 VHS special Unleashed on Cars, presenter Jeremy Clarkson emerged from his road test aboard a Ferrari F355 declaring it to be: 'the greatest car in the world; ever.'

"He reckoned it was the apogee of Maranello lore and modern technology. In fact, the supercar had wormed its way under his skin to such an extent that he 'had to have one'. And he did.

"Bought via the official Maranello Sales dealership at its art deco Tower Gate showroom in Egham, the F355 was delivered to the Top Gear and The Grand Tour host in August 1996 (as confirmed by the accompanying Warranty Card) registered 'P199 YPL'.

"After some debate over colour and configuration, as covered in the 2000 series Clarkson’s Car Years, he settled upon a targa-roofed GTS.

"He opted for Rosso Corsa over Crema leather, Rosso carpets, and extremely rare sports seats with Rosso inserts - a specification recorded in the original letters from Maranello Sales to Clarkson."

The model was ordered brand new by Clarkson and was delivered to the star back in 1996.

But, Clarkson eventually decided to give the model away in a Sunday Times newspaper competition

A third keeper kept hold of the Ferrari between March 2003 and February 2013 before coming into the care of the current vendor.

According to RM Sotheby’s the vehicle has been "maintained fastidiously" by marque expert John Pogson at his Italia Autosport base.

The F355 has been described as a top example factory-fitted model.

The vehicle is now displayed in its original colours of Rosso Corsa over Crema with stunning Rosso carpets.

RM Sotheby’s added: "One of the great modern Modena creations and, thanks in no small part to its famous first owner, this F355 GTS is arguably one of the best-known and finest examples in existence."