With the closure of the eighties, Enzo Ferrari had already signed his name and approved a replacement project for their entry-level 328. The 348, was a continuation of a mid-engine, V8 sports car lineage that dates back to 1973. The chassis was revised, the suspension revisited, the engine overhauled in displacement and technology, and the styling (both inside and out) reworked. In regards to statistical sales, the 348 was a modest hit among its brethren. However, their ‘middle-child’ situational placement amidst the Ferrari V8 line up has kept prices in a larger territory of affordability. Coming soon is your chance to purchase your way into the Ferrari club with a really excellent example of an early 348.
Hailing from the second year of 348 productions, this 1990 348 is of the TS variant, which means the vinyl top pops out and away leaving only the sky. The bodywork is purely reminiscent of the Testarossa, with multi-layered side vent strakes and a rectangular block of tail lights behind louvered slats. Wearing Blu Chiaro (503), the paint is in excellent condition, and the previous owner has professionally dealt with any rock chips that have accrued around the front. Furthermore, the lower aerodynamic trim pieces have all been color-matched to the body as is typically found on the later model-year 348.
Aside from the paint modifications, the original wheels (which will be supplied with purchase) have been replaced by staggered-width Speedline 18” three-piece alloys with Nitto INVO tires. Around back, the factory exhaust system (also to be turned over with purchase) was removed for replacement by an Italian-built Tubi exhaust with quad tips. The Targa roof still seals tight, Ferrari crests adorn the fenders, and the headlights still pop up – Bellissimo!
Nicely complementing the exterior, is a two-tone cream and dark brown interior. Manually-adjustable seats are covered in cream leather which has been re-dyed to restore their vibrancy. The creamy leather covers the lower dashboard, center stack, transmission console, and door panels. Contrasting the milky white leather is plush chocolate brown carpeting that is protected by matching floor mats embroidered with red prancing horses. A black leather dashboard caps off the interior and frames the gauge panel.
Supplying the driver with information is a 200 mph speedometer, 7,600 rpm redline tachometer, coolant temperature gauge, and oil pressure dial. Two auxiliary meters (fuel level and oil temperature) sit in the center stack below an aftermarket radio and above the climate control console. Operational controls are simple, yet sublime. A Ferrari-capped three-spoke steering wheel is the perfect complement to the polished metal-gated shifter.
Powering the 348 is a 3.4-liter F119 V8 that cranks out 306 horsepower at 7,200 rpm and 239 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The power is sent back to the transaxle through a five-speed transmission and then on to the rear wheels. Since new, the engine has been driven for 28,500 miles. Service records dating to 2002 indicate that coolant hoses, the alternator, and alignment were all performed. There are no indications of a timing belt service or water pump replacement.
Initially sold in New York, the 348 currently resides back in that state after living in Nebraska, Georgia, and Texas. Complete with a clean Carfax report and a clean Texas title, are the polished factory supplied wheels with BFGoodrich tires and factory exhaust. Also provided are the owner’s manual and service books in a leather-bound portfolio and the standard-issue Ferrari tool kit, which has all of the tools, fuses, belt, and bulbs (sans one). If you are in the market for an entry-level Ferrari that will not break the bank, keep tuned!
