348 Buyer’s Guide

Ferrari 348 Buyer’s Guide Contents TM F forum Ferrari 348 Buyerʼs Guide First Published November 2004 by Ferrari Forum. Revised and Updated May 2005 Introduction & Model Information 2 Phone (415) 216-8716 Email: [email protected] Driving Impressions 3 Copyright 2004 ALL RIGHTS Mechanical Differences 4 RESERVED.

Author: Andrew Naber & William Maintenance & Reliability 6 Taylor

Photos by: Andrew Naber Pros & Cons 7 Bob Hagendijk General Buying Tips 8 Expectations 9 Purchasing Options 10

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Model Information This means that a newer models in style) and TS (targa). The easiest The 348 series was general are be�er sorted and will way to recognize the early models launched in 1989 at a time when command a high price. The early is by the black lower trim. All the Ferrari was producing both the models can be hit and miss. In TB and TS models have a black sill Testarossa, and the F40-- two of researching for this article I came surround the bo�om edge of the the most definitive sports cars of across a mix of opinions regard- car. However, you may find a TB the 1980s. As a result, the 348 has ing the early models. One Ferrari or TS that is all one color. It was always been a bit overshadowed. mechanic said the 348 had a lot of fairly common for an owner to This was the first time the factory problems but that none of them repaint the black sill to match the used large scale production tech- alone are major it is the combina- color of the paint. Another aspect nologies to build their cars. The tion of all of them overtime that of the early TB and TS models was 348 was the first to have a self-sup- can make the 348 a trying owners the ma� black finish between the porting frame, with the engine experience. rear tail-lights. incorporated as part of the sub- In the first section I will The 348 Serie Speciale fol- frame. Because of this, the 348 did try to guide you through all the lowed the TB/TS models with a not need special bumpers for the differences in the 348 and provide limited production of 100 for the USA. With a mid-engine V8 the an understanding of the basic dif- U.S. market only. These cars were 348 series was the replacement to ferences followed by a mechanical designed to help boost sales dur- the most successful Ferrari in his- overview. I will then cover the ing a depressed market following tory--the 308/328 series. Designed cost of ownership from repairs to the market bubble burst by the car commands parts, then briefly talk about the in the late 80’s. Minor changes to respect and will catch anyones’ driving experience. To finish we this model over the TB/TS gave eye on the road. Similar to the will have a look at the pros and the car aproximately 10 more Testarossa, the 348 has the signa- cons of owning the 348 and hear horsepower. These improvements ture “cheese grater” side strakes from some owners about their 348 came mainly from the fi�ing of a running along the doors into the experiences. different exhaust system from the rear engine compartment. These TB/TS. The car also had cosmetic covered the huge scoops needed 348 Variations changes, and for the first time the to funnel air into the rear mounted The 348 series had a num- lower sills matched the color of the radiators. ber of variations available in Berli- body. Also added was a lip to the The 348 had a number ne�a, Targa or Spider body styles. front spoiler like that seen on the variants and upgrades over its life. The early models from 1989-1993 F40, along with a wider rear-tires will have the badges TB (berline�a to improve stability on the road. 348 Variants Photos The 348 TB with the 348 Spider with the con- black sill. These models vertible top and matching have a reputation for hav- sill. It was released in ing more problems than 1993 making it a newer later models. model and more deirable than the earlier TB/TS.

348 Serie Speciale with 348 GTB - with an im- a sill matching the paint. proved chassis and han- A more agressive 348 for dling has a same color the American market with sill. Some owners would upgrades that provided re-paint their sills on the enhanced performance TB/TS models so check the carʼs records.

2 Ferrari Forum 348 Buyer’s Guide

In 1993 at the Los Angles gines. This system was responsible The GTB/GTS models will be just motorshow Ferrari debuted the 348 for the new output of 320 horse- shy of the pricing of the Spider. Spider. It was the first 2 seater Spi- power (bhp) which was an increase der from Ferrari in 20 years. Prior of 20 (bhp) over its previous TB/TS. Driving Impressions to this, the last Spider was the 365 The 348 GTB/GTS was only sold in The 348 is a fun, drive- GTS/4 (Daytona Spider). The 348 Europe. able, user friendly car that wants Spider also had matching sills as For the US market, in 1994 to be tracked. When compared to per the 348 Serie Speciale. The Spi- Ferrari first introduced the “Chal- the contemporary Testarossa it is der also had a number of upgrades lenge” series cars especially for lighter, more agile, and looks for that would be transfered over to track and amateur racing. As a one corners to take at speed. A 348 the GTB/GTS models from 1993 to off, Ferrari ran a production of 45 is quite driveable in traffic. The the models end. These included a “Factory Challenge” cars which 3.4 liter engine provides plenty of more efficient exhaust system, new were fi�ed with the street bodies. grunt with the acceleration be- valve springs, upgraded timing The cars had the option of coming ing both smooth and quick. The belt, revissed final drive ratios plus with a full conversion the kit for thro�le response is immediate with the new Bosch Motronic 2.7 engine $14,000. The owner was ge�ing a plenty of power available across management system. Challenge car for a discount if the the range. The handling in normal Immediately following kit did not come installed. driving conditions is accurate, with the 348 Spider launch came the excellent communication back to final major version of the 348, the Market Information the driver. The steering does not GTB/GTS. The 348 GTB/GTS line The market price for 348s have the remoteness of the F355 was launched in October of 1993 vary quite a bit. The key reason power assisted set up. It turns on at the Frankfurt Auto Salon. The behind this is due to the first rails if driven properly, with plenty relaunch brought about many models TB/TS tend to have more of warning before the front and changes to the 348’s both mechani- reliability issues than the laterGTB/ back ends reverse themselves. The cal and to the design. Many of GTS models. Currently early mod- 5 speed gearbox demands respect these changes were already in els (1989-1990) can run as low as and warms up slowly. It is a bit place of the recent 348 Spyder and around $45,000. Anything lower notchy and double clutching on Serie Speciale. The GTB/GTS has a than $40,000 will likely require downshi�s is recommended. sleeker look and the sills of the car major investments. With a redline at 7200 rpm,the 348 match the body. On the mechani- As is the case for most Fer- has a great exhaust note. Deeper cal side the car had an upgraded raris the Spider will draw a higher and more gu�ural than the F355 electronic management system to price. Look for prices of Spyders or 328, it is not your neighbor’s go along with the Tipo F119 H en- to be around $65,000 - $75,000. friend. The 348 is responsive at

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lower rpms, but the power really kicks in once you • In 1991 the alternator was changed to a Nippon- push it past 4000 rpm. denso The only negative is that at speeds in excess of • Late 92 early 93 the ba�ery was moved from the 130 mph the front can feel light and unstable. With rear to the front seat time and experience in the 348, this goes away. • An updated (larger) alternator and related wir- The driving position is comfortable but is ing harnes on the GTB/GTS models more in line with a true sports car vs. the more re- • 92 - 93 front grill was redesigned with an added fined comforts of a GT. chrome cavallino • Serie Speciale had a solid rear and not the black Mechanical Differences slats covering the tail lights While the 348 had a number of variants (TB- • Serie Speciale also had a higher flow exhaust TS-Spider-GTB-GTS-Serie Speciale-Challenge), it also which gave it the extra 10 bhp (see page 4) had a number of mechanical changes over the years • The Frau seat was changed to a sport Kevlar on of production. The majority of the changes were the Serie Speciale minor reliability upgrades and outlined below are the • Spider has a smaller gas tank due to incorporate changes: room needed for the retractable roof. • The Spider had a radio antenna in the wind- • The first few 100 348s had roof mounted radio shield antennas • A�er mid 1990 the dual plate clutch was changed to a single platedue to reliability issues. • 89 cars had a Motronic M2.5 engine manage- ment system • 90 models had M2.7 Motronic engine manage- ment systems • 1990 on onwards Euro models were fi�ed with a catalytic converter

4 Ferrari Forum 348 Buyer’s Guide

TB/TS Specifications Number Made 2895 (348 TB), 4230 (348 TS), 100 (348 Serie Speciale) Engine Type Displacement 3405 cc Bore & Stroke 85mm x 75mm Engine Description Rear-mounted, longitudinal 90 degree V8, light alloy cylinder block and head Power 300 bhp - 310 bhp (Serie Speciale) Transmission Dry twin-plate clutch, 5-speed gearbox + reverse, ZF limited-slip differential Chassis Steel monococque and tubular rear sub-frame Front Suspension Double wishbones, coil springs and gas dampers Rear Suspension Double wishbones, coil springs and gas dampers Brakes Ventilated discs, 4-pot callipers, dual high-press Length 423cm Width 189cm Height 117cm Wheelbase 245cm Acceleration 0-60 mph 5.6 sec Top Speed 275 KM/H

GTB/GTS Specifications Number Made N/A Power 320 bhp

Spider Specifications Number Made 1046 Power 320 bhp

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Maintance & Reliability

The 348 is not a difficult car to maintain and will be reliable if well cared for. The cost for an oil change at a Ferrari dealer will run around $300 USD (Feb 1, 2005). The early 348s can give you the most trouble. Gener- ally speaking pre 1993 models have the problems.

The 348 should have a major service at 30,000 miles. This service includes the following:

Replace T-Belt, tensioner bearings and the waterpump (change of waterpump is recommended). Replace belts, fuel filters, plugs, plug wires Valve adjustment Change oil, and recommended all other fluids

Regular service intervals are at 6250 miles.

Average Parts and Service Cost

Fluid Quantity Oil (5w30) 11 liters (12 quarts) Gearbox 4 liters Brake Fluid 1.6 liters Antifreeze 20 liters

Services:

Details of Service Price Timing chain update done along with timing belt $11,600 and top end overhaul

6 Ferrari Forum 348 Buyer’s Guide

Pros & Cons PROS CONS

• The 348 makes a fine affordable first Ferrari. • The rubberised material on the centre consol deteriorates to the point that it becomes a black • The interior is one of the most classic interiors sticky mess that will need replacing you will find anywhere. This is the one cosmetic area in which the 348 totally outclasses the 328. • You cannot engage 2nd gear until the car is thoroughly warm (common on many early Fer- • In terms of handling - it is unbelievable. You raris). will probably read lots of articles which say the 348 does not handle perfectly. At 105% of the • Problems associated with the cable gear link- capability of a professional racing driver, on the age - it’s just one of those things that forever track, that maybe true. However, if you are go- needs adjusting. ing to reach that point on the road, you are going to need to be certifiable! For us mortals - it is • Water leakage due to poor seals in the TS and staggering. Spider models.

• Like all the sound is awesome. In the • Common problem are the three seals between 348’s case having the mid-engine makes it even the output sha�s going to the clutch pack and be�er as it is right behind your ears. FW. These wear and gear oil infiltrates the FW. Causing ra�ling of the internal parts in the FW, and a problem starting the car when it is hot.

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General Buying Tips

1. Demand to see the service book and maintenance history file. Make sure you have solid answers to any holes in the history. If not, move on.

2. Get the car inspected by a Ferrari trained mechanic. He will find things you miss. Make sure all factory updates have been done. Check when the last cambelt change was done.

3. If the asking price is very low, there is a reason for it.

4. Never buy the first car you see, look and test drive several including both an open air TS and closed TB.

5. Make sure the car has all the original Books, Tools, and Records. These are both difficult and expensive to replace later.

6. Talk to other owners, ask questions in the forum, we are here to help.

7. Talk to the mechanics that have historically serviced the car.

8. Higher mileage with proper maintenance may provide excellent buying opportunities. A 348 with miles on it is likey to have all issues sorted.

8 Ferrari Forum 348 Buyer’s Guide

Expectations totality of the experience. It is this predictable and a�er a time, can emotional link between car and be construed as boring. A Porsche When you purchase a Ferrari, you owner that sets Ferrari’s apart from does everything with extreme are not buying a car but rather a other sports cars competence, to the extent that you work of engineering art and a piece begin to wonder if you, the driver, of history. A Ferrari has a soul and Two other cars that many first time are really needed. character unique in the automo- Ferrari owners consider are Lam- tive world. A Ferrari comes filled borghini and Porsche. Lamborghi- The fact is Ferrari’s are expensive with Italian passion, for both be�er ni has similar roots in the Modena to maintain and less reliable than and occasionally worse. Driving a area . It however does not have the many other cars. This is simply a Ferrari is never boring. It is engag- racing heritage or, for the majority small part of the deal that comes ing. You are always involved and of its life, the single minded guid- with being a member of the small interacting with the car across a ance of a brilliant owner. Lambo- and special club of Ferrari own- multitude of senses. While driv- rghini’s ownership history has in- ers. The Porsche is a cold rationale ing, this includes the constantly cluded everyone from Chrysler, an machine, a Lamborghini is pure changing sound track as the engine Indonesian Conglomerate, to Audi. emotion, and a Ferrari gives you moves through the rpm range, This is reflected in the history of both. the heavy but exact clutch, and the models. Lamborghinis tend the metallic click with every gear to be overly flamboyant, difficult change. There really is nothing to drive, and highly temperamen- else on the road that sounds like a tal. Porsche, on the other hand, is Ferrari. Until you have driven one, efficient, reliable, and an engineer- it is impossible to appreciate the ing masterpiece. It is also highly

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Purchasing Options provide warrantees (via 3rd local Ferrari Owner’s Club In general most Ferrari Buyers parties) and on-going mainte- purchase their cars at one of nance facilities. The quality of positives on the above are an four channels: the maintenance for modern initial indication of a careful models can be on par with the owner, but could also be the re- - Official Ferrari Dealers official dealers as many inde- sult of a pre-sale clean up. Then - Independent Specialist Dealers pendents employee Ferrari move onto the substance: - Private Sellers trained mechanics. For modern - Auctions models though it is critical to - review the service records, a confirm that the service center comprehensive file is always a each has it’s own strengthens has the necessary diagnostic good sign and weaknesses. In summary: equipment and so�ware (SD1 - check the history of the car, or SD2) for your model. For make sure it has always been Official Ferrari Dealers Classic and Vintage Ferrari’s, in- well cared for Purchasing through an official dependents many be your only, - always check that the mileage dealer will provide the most or best (for more recent models) on the odometer matches the piece of mind when making the option. Prices at Independent’s other records rather considerable investment should be 5-20% less than Of- - confirm that the seller is the in a badged ficial Dealers. car’s owner and that the title is automobile. In almost all cases clear the car will come with some sort In most countries, purchasing - spend time both test driving of warrantee, a comprehensive from either an Official Fer- the car and talking to the own- service history, and a clean bill rari Dealer or an Independent er. No car is perfect, does the of health. All of this comes with Specialist will provide you with owner point out both the good a cost and you will likely pay the strongest legal rights should points of the car and the issues a 10-20% premium vs. other anything go wrong. needing a�ention ? options. One other limitation is that dealers normally only stock Private Sellers Buying from a private seller will the current, plus 1-2 generations Caveat Emptor. Buying from a provide both the lowest cost of of prior models. As a result, private seller is both the low- acquisition and the highest risk dealers are really only an option est cost and highest risk option. should any major undisclosed for the modern (1990’s -) model In all Ferrari purchases, a Pre issue emerge post purchase. enthusiast. Purchase Inspection (PPI) by a Doing your homework properly specialist is recommended, in is critical and in many cases it Independent Specialist the case of a private purchase, is a rewarding and enjoyable Independent Specialist dealers it is critical. Purchasing well experience for both parties. can provide both outstanding privately is both a ma�er of service and a wide range of form and substance. First the Ferrari Forum Buyers Guides models to choose from, cover- form which is mostly related to are available for the following ing all price ranges. Reputation general appearance and presen- models: is critical and so is doing your tation: 246 research on an Independent 365/512 Boxer Specialist dealer before writing - check the condition of the in- 348 out a check. Information and terior, is the leather conditioned F355 insights on different Specialists and cleaned 360 can be obtained both through - pull up the mats, check the 456 GT Mondial your local Ferrari Owners Club condition of the under carpet Testarossa - spray water on the car, make members and via posts on the 550/575 Coming Soon ! sure it beads up immediately Ferrari Forum. Like official 308/328 Coming Soon ! dealers, many specialist can - look in the engine bay - is the owner a member of the 10 Ferrari Forum