[drewdriver]

I am trying to decide which model is better in terms of reliability and overall ownership experience. I have a couple of other "toys" and the ones I enjoy the best seem ti be the ones that are the easiest to keep on the road. Understanding that both are still Ferrari's, and all that that entails, anybody have any reccomendations? :roll:

 

[Magoo]

Drew, Give us some more info. I can tell you though the308 8 cyl cars are easier on maintenance. One thing is that you don't have to pull the engine to do a cam belt change. The 400i or 412i are 12 cyls and they are not so bad to work on but they are a luxury coupe with a back seat. Give a little more info. on what you are looking for.

 

[drewdriver]

Thank for responding. I am trying to decide between a 348 or a 355, ans then, for each, between a GTS or Spyder. I don't plan on racing the car or anything that would require the additional fram stiffness. I reaaly want a car that is "reliable and available". I have a few other toys, and the ones that I enjoy the most are the ones that are "ready to go" verses being in the shop. It will NOT be a daily driver. Thanks again.

 

[Dj Dirk]

Regarding to GTS or Spyder version, i would look at where you live.
Like with Belgium for instance, it would be safer to get a GTS :wink:

 

[Bart]

The older the Ferrari, than tighter it is wund.

The newer the better.

Mileage is not the answer.

Age is.

In Ferrari.


:green:

 

[bretm]

The 355 is probably the best built car to come out of Maranello, so I would take that hands down over a 348, but it of course comes at an increased price.

 

[Tifoso_Boy]

The 348 wasn't as well recieved as the F355, which became an instant classic. I still love them both :green:

 

[Andrew]

beat a dead horse

drewdriver,
Welcome to the forum, it's always good to see a new name. Not to beat a dead horse (well yes) but I also agree with all of the above. I would choose the F355 which I believe is more reliable than the 348 (which I hear can have some problems). I knew the F355 was a damn good Ferrari but never one of it not the best. Well that's what I like about this place, hearing others opinions and learning at the same time. Please let us know which car you pick. Reguardless or your choice I'm sure we can offer assistance in any questions you may have once you have it (ie maintance, other tibits). Again welcome to FF and we hope to hear more from you.

 

[drewdriver]

Thank you all for your input. I have started a search for a car. Leaning towards a 355. Anybody have thoughts on eBay? They have a bunch of 355's listed, think I can at least use it as a guide to the market?

 

[Bart]

Drewdriver,
If you are looking on the net, you may also try the Dupont Registry. It also list Ferrari & other high end cars.

:green:

 

[Tifoso_Boy]

Beware of buying a Ferrari on the net!!! Just make sure you can inspect the car before coughing up the cash

 

[Mick]

:question: how about the 348 vs. the 1998 - 1991 Testarossa. They are about the same price range $60k - $75k. Which one is a better buy?

 

[Dj Dirk]

I would defenitly go for the Testarossa then

 

[César]

355 will !

 

[Tifoso_Boy]

The Testarossa is one of my favorite Ferraris. However, the cost of mantaining one is a bit high...the V12!!!!!!

 

[Mick]

how much higher would you say?

Thanks.

 

[Dj Dirk]

first of all, the insurance with be higher and also the gas bill :-?

 

[b0rf]

My dad has owned a 355 GTS and currently owns a 348GT Competizione. ALthough the cars are vastly different, i'll give you a quick synopsis of what both of us have inferred. (mind you, i never drove the 355, so this is mainly his opinion)

Performance- Not much of a difference between our 348GT and the 355 (400lb weight difference and maybe only 15hp disparity, with that going to the 355 :lol: ). But from what i've heard, the 355 is quite a bit quicker than the 348, mainly due to the better power, but also because of the EXTRA GEAR!

Handling and feel- 348 is more raw-- this opinion is shared with every other owner who have either driven or owned both models.

Reliability- Early 348 models should be avoided...many had electronic and transmission problems (from what i've heard). Our '93 348 GT has had no problems and is driven hard with 36,000 kilometers on it. It can sit for 2 weeks and then start up just fine, which i think is pretty good for an early 90's ferrari. 355 basically has no issues all the way around the board.

Overall, there should be no question. The 355 is hands down a better car than the 348...but at a price. A good 348 can be had for $50k. I think the GTS is the model to have in either form.


Good luck with the purchase.