348 Considering a 348.... Thoughts please....

maresca360 · 10-23-2011, 06:56 PM

Greetings to all.... I am considering the purchase of a 348. I have a 308 GT4 and had a 360 until about a month ago. I do not know much about the 348's other than what I have read online. I can certainly purchase another 360 or a 430 but for some reason have it in my mind that I need to experience a 348. Allow me to add that I drove a 355 spider last week and was not a fan. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a bunch......

lucca brazzi · 10-23-2011, 07:11 PM

not sure what i can add that would help,,,i myself,,had a nice drive in a 355 GTS a couple of years ago,,,and i liked it a lot,,,good mechanical grip,,i see 348 s out here in so cal on some ocasions,,and they do look pretty cool,,,they have the old style interior,,like the 328 / 308 / testarossa,,and the 3 spoke momo steering wheel,,,i believe there is also a kit that changes the tail lights form the grated style,,,to the infamous round tail lights,,i have never bothered to read up about the pros and cons concerning the 348,,i myself want a 355..and have been looking into it ,,for a few years...the 348 seems to be kind of a black sheep..just my opinion ,,although i do remember exactly how i felt when i first had a look at one back in 1990 i felt..just like i do ., when any other new Ferrari comes out,,,!!! Good Luck,,Brett

Kurby69 · 10-23-2011, 08:20 PM

I have had my 348 Spider for about 3 weeks and I can tell you that this car is awesome. It turns heads and is a true drivers car. It is responsive and you feel that you are really driving and connected to the road. I love my car and I wouldn't have anything else right now. I don't think you will be sorry if you choose to buy a 348....

Dino246gt · 10-24-2011, 02:53 PM

Your 348 looks great with those rims, the factory 348 wheels are not attractive in MY opinion. Wheels are easy to change though and keeping with Ferrari rims is a great upgrade, again only MY opinion.

wetpet · 10-24-2011, 04:13 PM

i would definitely drive one if you haven't already. of course, a 360 or 430 is a lot more car. What attracts you to the 348?

maresca360 · 10-24-2011, 06:52 PM

Thanks for the info..... Nice ride kurby. I love the lines of the 348. Just a great looking car and I have read online that it is a great Ferrari. Cheers

Granucci · 10-25-2011, 11:46 AM

I don't understand how downgrading to a 348 from the lackluster [for you] 355 will be a consideration especially since they both require engine out services about the same in costs, and the 355 is the better performer.

There is so much to discount in your scenario that you should just skip these two models and go to the 430.

348/355/360/430 are still depreciating, but the lesser costs on the 430 might be a factor considering earlier models cost more to service, and are still depreciating a bit.

Boxer · 10-25-2011, 12:23 PM

Have you taken a look at the 348 Buyers Guide?

Ferrari Buyer's Guides - Ferrari Life

tazandjan · 10-25-2011, 02:20 PM

Maresca- How about telling us what it was about the F355 you did not like so someone can tell you what to expect? The F355 is really an updated 348 with a much more powerful engine and a six speed instead of a five speed. If you did not like the basic chassis feel, a 348 may not be for you.

I personally really like the styling on the 348 and think the original wheels are attractive, although they look great with F355 and 360 wheels, too. Most of the grumps about the 348 were about quality control, but owners have fixed those problems long ago. The biggest hit for the 348 and F355 is having to pull the engine every 3-5 years. You also have to adjust valve clearances on the 348. The F355 and later V8s use hydraulic lifters.

maresca360 · 10-26-2011, 03:37 PM

TazandJan....

Greetings. The 355 spyder that I drove seemed very stiff in the suspension. It was very bumpy and all over the place if that makes any sense. I was not impressed with how difficult it was to shift into fourth gear. It also seemed very sluggish. I am not sure if that is because I owned a 360 or not. The 355 is a beautiful machine. I do however think that the 348 is a nicer looking machine. I am looking for a 348 in my area to test drive so that I can gauge if it is for me or not. Cheers....

Maresca360

maresca360 · 10-26-2011, 03:38 PM

Boxer.... Thanks for the link. I just paid my membership and will look at the buyer's guide for sure. Thanks....

Maresca360

maresca360 · 10-26-2011, 03:41 PM

Granucci...

Thanks for the input. My mind is not made up as of yet. I am also still also considering a 1990 TR.

Maresca360

tazandjan · 10-26-2011, 07:39 PM

Maresca- I would not expect much difference when you drive a 348, unless the F355 you drove had problems. Good luck on the 348 test drive.

Some Ferrari cars have had the suspension geometry so fouled up by unknowledgable techs that it is difficult to get a feel of how the cars actually respond. A good one feels great. Even tire pressures can make a huge difference in handling.

Jack Russell Racing · 10-27-2011, 01:39 AM

In my opinion, if you didn't like the F355 shift linkage, you'll hate the 348 shift mechanism. I have a 348 (and have had it for 7 years). The cable-driven shifter is not difficult to engage any of the gears, but it has a very "mushy" feel compared to the rod system in the F355.

Jimmy Chen Shiba DDS · 10-27-2011, 02:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tazandjan

Maresca- I would not expect much difference when you drive a 348, unless the F355 you drove had problems. Good luck on the 348 test drive.

Some Ferrari cars have had the suspension geometry so fouled up by unknowledgable techs that it is difficult to get a feel of how the cars actually respond. A good one feels great. Even tire pressures can make a huge difference in handling.

+1. All I can add to that is my own experience of owning a '97 manual 355Berlinetta for few years, and the car was splendid. You might consider test driving another 355 along with the 348 so that you can make the best choice for yourself. Good luck with your search. w/ smiles Jimmy

Brian · 10-27-2011, 02:04 PM

My column in the next issue of Forza is about 348's.

It will give you a little insight.

tazandjan · 10-27-2011, 02:13 PM

Brian- I have enjoyed your columns in Forza. It is nice of you to come slumming with us mortal owners in FL and pass on some of your hard won knowledge.

wetpet · 10-27-2011, 02:54 PM

definitely drive more than one. the two tr's i drove before i ruled them out were mushy and i didn't like them. I then drove a "nice" tr later and it was a completely different car. make sure you drive a "tight" car. same thing with the 328. have driven several mushy ones and mine is tight as a drum head. just what i like about it so much.

Jack Russell Racing · 10-28-2011, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian

My column in the next issue of Forza is about 348's.

It will give you a little insight.

Your column in the December 2011 issue (Valeo) was well done. Its nice to have rich content in Forza. I'm sure it takes a lot of time to put these together, but it is noticed and appreciated!

maytag · 10-28-2011, 06:16 AM

ok... I'm new. What is "FORZA", and where can I find it?

10-23-2011, 06:56 PM	#1
maresca360 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Newnan, Ga. Ferrari Life Posts: 14 Name: Maresca360	Considering a 348.... Thoughts please.... Greetings to all.... I am considering the purchase of a 348. I have a 308 GT4 and had a 360 until about a month ago. I do not know much about the 348's other than what I have read online. I can certainly purchase another 360 or a 430 but for some reason have it in my mind that I need to experience a 348. Allow me to add that I drove a 355 spider last week and was not a fan. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a bunch......

10-23-2011, 07:11 PM	#2
lucca brazzi Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Ferrari Life Posts: 442	348 not sure what i can add that would help,,,i myself,,had a nice drive in a 355 GTS a couple of years ago,,,and i liked it a lot,,,good mechanical grip,,i see 348 s out here in so cal on some ocasions,,and they do look pretty cool,,,they have the old style interior,,like the 328 / 308 / testarossa,,and the 3 spoke momo steering wheel,,,i believe there is also a kit that changes the tail lights form the grated style,,,to the infamous round tail lights,,i have never bothered to read up about the pros and cons concerning the 348,,i myself want a 355..and have been looking into it ,,for a few years...the 348 seems to be kind of a black sheep..just my opinion ,,although i do remember exactly how i felt when i first had a look at one back in 1990 i felt..just like i do ., when any other new Ferrari comes out,,,!!! Good Luck,,Brett

10-23-2011, 08:20 PM	#3
Kurby69 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: Jackson, MO. Ferrari Life Posts: 167 Name: Greg	I have had my 348 Spider for about 3 weeks and I can tell you that this car is awesome. It turns heads and is a true drivers car. It is responsive and you feel that you are really driving and connected to the road. I love my car and I wouldn't have anything else right now. I don't think you will be sorry if you choose to buy a 348.... Attached Images

10-24-2011, 04:13 PM	#5
wetpet Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Chevy Chase, Md Ferrari Life Posts: 6,603 Name: Ed	i would definitely drive one if you haven't already. of course, a 360 or 430 is a lot more car. What attracts you to the 348? Everything you know is wrong Stop chatting and start living the ferrarilife!

10-25-2011, 11:46 AM	#7
Granucci Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: far and away Ferrari Life Posts: 5,053	If I read you correclty. I don't understand how downgrading to a 348 from the lackluster [for you] 355 will be a consideration especially since they both require engine out services about the same in costs, and the 355 is the better performer. There is so much to discount in your scenario that you should just skip these two models and go to the 430. 348/355/360/430 are still depreciating, but the lesser costs on the 430 might be a factor considering earlier models cost more to service, and are still depreciating a bit. Guide to the Galaxy: Don't Panic Rik -- LAH ! Current: 1990 Mondial T Cabriolet : Red/Tan 1995 456 GT 2+2 : Roso Metalizzato [Fer 311/C] & Tan Last edited by Granucci; 10-26-2011 at 03:49 PM.

10-24-2011, 02:53 PM	#4
Dino246gt Owner Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Winnipeg, Canada Ferrari Life Posts: 126	Your 348 looks great with those rims, the factory 348 wheels are not attractive in MY opinion. Wheels are easy to change though and keeping with Ferrari rims is a great upgrade, again only MY opinion.

10-24-2011, 06:52 PM	#6
maresca360 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Newnan, Ga. Ferrari Life Posts: 14 Name: Maresca360	Thanks for the info..... Nice ride kurby. I love the lines of the 348. Just a great looking car and I have read online that it is a great Ferrari. Cheers

10-25-2011, 12:23 PM	#8
Boxer Owner Elite Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: UK Ferrari Life Posts: 12,793	Have you taken a look at the 348 Buyers Guide? Ferrari Buyer's Guides - Ferrari Life Boxer Current: F40, F50, 612, 430 Scuderia Past: 360 Modena, 360 Challenge, 550, 575, 365BB, 512BB, 456 GT, F355 GTS, 365 GTB/4 Daytona, 308 GTB

10-25-2011, 02:20 PM	#9
tazandjan Owner Elite Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Albuquerque, NM Ferrari Life Posts: 3,606 Name: Terry H Phillips	Maresca- How about telling us what it was about the F355 you did not like so someone can tell you what to expect? The F355 is really an updated 348 with a much more powerful engine and a six speed instead of a five speed. If you did not like the basic chassis feel, a 348 may not be for you. I personally really like the styling on the 348 and think the original wheels are attractive, although they look great with F355 and 360 wheels, too. Most of the grumps about the 348 were about quality control, but owners have fixed those problems long ago. The biggest hit for the 348 and F355 is having to pull the engine every 3-5 years. You also have to adjust valve clearances on the 348. The F355 and later V8s use hydraulic lifters. Taz Terry Phillips Present: 575M 135171 Past: Dino 246 GT 02984, 365 GTB/4 14009, 308 GTS 25125 Every day I look around, and if nobody is shooting at me, it is a pretty good day.

10-26-2011, 03:37 PM	#10
maresca360 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Newnan, Ga. Ferrari Life Posts: 14 Name: Maresca360	TazandJan.... Greetings. The 355 spyder that I drove seemed very stiff in the suspension. It was very bumpy and all over the place if that makes any sense. I was not impressed with how difficult it was to shift into fourth gear. It also seemed very sluggish. I am not sure if that is because I owned a 360 or not. The 355 is a beautiful machine. I do however think that the 348 is a nicer looking machine. I am looking for a 348 in my area to test drive so that I can gauge if it is for me or not. Cheers.... Maresca360

10-26-2011, 03:38 PM	#11
maresca360 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Newnan, Ga. Ferrari Life Posts: 14 Name: Maresca360	Boxer.... Thanks for the link. I just paid my membership and will look at the buyer's guide for sure. Thanks.... Maresca360

10-26-2011, 03:41 PM	#12
maresca360 Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Newnan, Ga. Ferrari Life Posts: 14 Name: Maresca360	Granucci... Thanks for the input. My mind is not made up as of yet. I am also still also considering a 1990 TR. Maresca360

10-26-2011, 07:39 PM	#13
tazandjan Owner Elite Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Albuquerque, NM Ferrari Life Posts: 3,606 Name: Terry H Phillips	Maresca- I would not expect much difference when you drive a 348, unless the F355 you drove had problems. Good luck on the 348 test drive. Some Ferrari cars have had the suspension geometry so fouled up by unknowledgable techs that it is difficult to get a feel of how the cars actually respond. A good one feels great. Even tire pressures can make a huge difference in handling. Taz Terry Phillips Present: 575M 135171 Past: Dino 246 GT 02984, 365 GTB/4 14009, 308 GTS 25125 Every day I look around, and if nobody is shooting at me, it is a pretty good day.

10-27-2011, 01:39 AM	#14
Jack Russell Racing Owner Sponsor Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Winston-Salem, NC Ferrari Life Posts: 85	In my opinion, if you didn't like the F355 shift linkage, you'll hate the 348 shift mechanism. I have a 348 (and have had it for 7 years). The cable-driven shifter is not difficult to engage any of the gears, but it has a very "mushy" feel compared to the rod system in the F355. Ricambi America: The Ferrari Parts Specialists. All New, All Original, All Genuine.

10-27-2011, 02:04 PM	#16
Brian Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Northern California Ferrari Life Posts: 859 Name: Brian Crall	My column in the next issue of Forza is about 348's. It will give you a little insight.

10-27-2011, 02:13 PM	#17
tazandjan Owner Elite Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Albuquerque, NM Ferrari Life Posts: 3,606 Name: Terry H Phillips	Brian- I have enjoyed your columns in Forza. It is nice of you to come slumming with us mortal owners in FL and pass on some of your hard won knowledge. Taz Terry Phillips Present: 575M 135171 Past: Dino 246 GT 02984, 365 GTB/4 14009, 308 GTS 25125 Every day I look around, and if nobody is shooting at me, it is a pretty good day.

10-27-2011, 02:54 PM	#18
wetpet Owner Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Chevy Chase, Md Ferrari Life Posts: 6,603 Name: Ed	definitely drive more than one. the two tr's i drove before i ruled them out were mushy and i didn't like them. I then drove a "nice" tr later and it was a completely different car. make sure you drive a "tight" car. same thing with the 328. have driven several mushy ones and mine is tight as a drum head. just what i like about it so much. Everything you know is wrong Stop chatting and start living the ferrarilife!

10-28-2011, 06:16 AM	#20
maytag Elite Member Join Date: Oct 2011 Ferrari Life Posts: 105	ok... I'm new. What is "FORZA", and where can I find it?

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode