1994 Ferrari 348

The highly successful 328 GTB/GTS was replaced by the Ferrari 348, first shown in prototype form in 1987, and entering production in 1989. Like its predecessor, the 348 employed a mid-engine layout but differed by mounting its four-valves-per-cylinder, quad-cam V8 engine longitudinally, enabling it to be positioned lower in the chassis. Another change was the transversely mounted five-speed gearbox inspired by the company's contemporary Formula 1 technology, allowing the weight to be concentrated within the wheelbase, resulting in improvements to its road-holding characteristics. The transverse manual gearbox was similar to the Mondial T with which the 348 shared many components.

The engine was a naturally aspirated 3.4-liter version of the quad-cam, four valves per cylinder unit originally found in the 288 GTO. Just like the 328, the 348 designation was in reference to its engine - the first two digits being the displacement and the third being the number of cylinders. To prevent the engine from oil starvation at high speeds and extreme cornering, it was equipped with a dry-sump oil system. Due to this setup, the oil level can only be accurately checked on the dip-stick when the motor is running. The 348 used an adjustable ride height suspension and a removable rear subframe to speed up the removal of the engine for maintenance.

The styling was by Leonardo Fioravanti, his last project as chief stylist for Ferrari before moving to Fiat's Centro Stile as Director of Design in 1989. It incorporated styling cues from the Testarossa including the straked side air intakes and rectangular taillights.

The 348 initially wore 'tb' and 'ts' designations, for trasversale berlinetta and trasversale spyder respectively. It later reverted to Ferrari's traditional GTB/GTS nomenclature partway through production. A more powerful open roadster was introduced in 1993 - the 348 Spider. This was Ferrari's first two-seat convertible since the 'Daytona' Spyder of 1969. The 348 Spider was devoid of the GTS's prominent roll-over bar, Targa-type removable roof panel, and small side windows.

Late in 1993, the 348 received subtle revisions in the bodywork and a new engine management system that increased horsepower in the 3.4-liter V8 from 300 bhp to 320 bhp. Additionally, the suspension was revised and the rear axle widened, resulting in improved ride quality and handling.

Along with its road-going line, Ferrari also offered a coupe for their Challenge series. A kit was also available to be installed by the dealer to convert customer coupe cars to comply with the rules of the series. The kit included a roll cage, safety harness, and competition seats.

Production of the Spider continued through 1995 with 1,090 examples built. 2,894 examples of the 348 tb and 4,228 of the 348 ts were built.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011