Ferrari 348

The Ferrari 348 was introduced in 1989 as the successor to the 328, and to continue in the line of entry level mid-engined Ferraris. A total of 8,844 348s were produced during their run. As stated in the nameplate, the car has a 3.4 liter V8 engine. This engine produces a total of 300hp, which was later upped to 320hp in 1993. The car was propelled from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds (later 5.4). Top speed was between 171 and 175 mph.

The styling of the 348 greatly mimicked that of the larger Testarossa. It introduced a lower slung, wider, and even more angular look to the Ferrari range, greatly differing from its curvy predecessors. This new, wider look was due to a relocation of the oil and coolant radiators to the sides from the front of the car.

There were two different body styles for the 1989-1992 model years, the TB and the TS. The TB (Trasversale Berlinetta) was the coupe and the TS (Trasversale Spider) was the targa, the “transversale” referring to the transversal location of the gearbox. These were the most produced of the 348 production run.

The GTB (coupe), GTS (targa) and Spider versions were introduced in 1993. The only major exterior changes was the painting of the side skirts to match the body (however many owners did this to their TBs and TSs) and the removable roof of the GTS model was also made to be the body color. The Spider did not have a power roof and was introduced as a replacement for the Mondial Cabriolet. The cars also received a 20hp bump (to 320hp total), a reduced fuel tank, and a revised suspension.

In 1992 and 1993, Ferrari sold 100 models of the 348 badged as the Serie Speciale in the US market. These had the grates over the taillights removed and a larger front spoiler. They also had 12 more horsepower than the standard TB and TS models.

Credits: r8lover