1990 FERRARI 348 TS | ZFFFG36A0L0087248
❯1990 FERRARI 348 TS | ZFFFG36A0L0087248
United States
Lot details
Vehicle details
Vehicle specifications
3
~$120,000
Engine: 3.4L naturally aspirated V8
Torque: 324 Nm
0–100 km/h: ~5.4 s
The Ferrari 348 delivered a visceral and raw driving experience that marked a significant transition in Ferrari’s mid-engine V8 lineage. With its 3.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 mounted longitudinally and producing 320 horsepower in later GTB/GTS/Spider variants, the 348 achieved 0–100 km/h in 5.4 seconds—competitive for its era. The high-revving engine, combined with a five-speed gated manual gearbox, offered strong throttle response and a characteristically shrill Ferrari exhaust note.
Unlike its predecessor, the 348’s drivetrain was more complex, with a rear-mounted transverse gearbox and dry-sump lubrication, enabling lower center of gravity and improved weight balance. The handling was sharp and responsive, albeit occasionally nervous at the limit, especially in early TS and TB models. Later revisions to suspension geometry and wider rear track helped tame its twitchiness, particularly in the GT Competizione and Serie Speciale variants. Steering was unassisted and heavy at low speeds but offered excellent feedback and precision at pace.
Although the 348 required driver skill to extract its best, it rewarded commitment with thrilling dynamics and a sense of mechanical connection that modern Ferraris would later soften. It stood as the last of the truly analog mid-engine Ferraris before the era of electronic aids, making it beloved today for its rawness, sound, and simplicity. It wasn’t the fastest or easiest Ferrari—but for purists, it remains one of the most honest.
Body Styles
The Ferrari 348 was offered in three main body styles: TB (Berlinetta, fixed roof coupe), TS (Targa with removable roof panel), and Spider (full convertible). All variants shared a two-door, two-seat layout with wedge-shaped styling inspired by the Testarossa, including straked side air intakes and wide, flat rear proportions. The pop-up headlights, low stance, and integrated rear grille gave the car an unmistakably 1990s supercar silhouette. With a longitudinal mid-mounted engine and integrated rear transaxle, the body proportions emphasized balance and aggression. Later GTB and GTS versions smoothed out styling and added subtle aerodynamic improvements, while the Spider featured a fully retractable soft top with revised rear buttresses.
Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)
The “348” follows Ferrari’s traditional naming convention, referring to engine displacement and cylinder count: 3.4 liters, 8 cylinders. This approach aligned it with past mid-engine V8 models like the 308 and 328, providing immediate technical reference while preserving brand continuity.
Body & Interior Colors and Rims
The 348 came in a range of iconic Ferrari shades, with Rosso Corsa being the most prominent. Nero, Giallo Modena, Argento, and rare shades like Blu Chiaro and Verde Silverstone added variety, particularly on GTB and GTS trims. Some special-order examples featured metallic or two-tone finishes. The Spider version was often ordered with a contrasting soft top in black or beige, which harmonized with the bold exterior hues.
The interior featured Connolly leather upholstery in shades such as Nero, Crema, Tan, and Sabbia. Dashboards were typically black to reduce glare, while seats and door panels could be customized in matching or contrasting tones. The cabin layout was minimalist yet elegant, with analog gauges, an iconic open-gate shifter, and a center stack filled with tactile buttons and sliders. Some Serie Speciale models featured sportier touches like suede steering wheels or carbon-fiber trim.
Wheels evolved slightly across model years—from classic five-spoke Speedline-style 17-inch alloys to more performance-oriented magnesium wheels in the Competizione variant. Finishes were typically silver or anthracite gray, with Ferrari center caps. The rear track widened in later variants to accommodate improved suspension geometry, and performance tires enhanced grip and visual stance.
Top Expensive Options
- Leather and Alcantara Sport Seat Package (Serie Speciale): $5,200
- Metallic Paint (e.g. Blu Le Mans, Verde British): $4,800
- Factory Air Conditioning Upgrade: $2,400
- Color-Matched Targa Top Cover (TS): $1,500
- Scuderia Fender Shields (Dealer Option): $1,200
- Upgraded Sound System with CD Changer: $1,000
- Embroidered Cavallino Headrests: $900
- Custom-Fitted Luggage Set (Leather-Matched): $3,000
- Carbon Fiber Interior Trim Inserts (Aftermarket/Ferrari Racing): $2,600
- Lightweight Magnesium Wheels (GTC): $6,000
vs Competitors
Against the Porsche 911 Carrera 964 and Honda NSX, the Ferrari 348 offered more visual drama and traditional exotic appeal. The Porsche was more reliable and daily-drivable, while the NSX introduced a new standard of precision and usability. The 348, in contrast, was more raw and involved—less refined, but more emotional. Compared to the Lotus Esprit, it had better build quality and resale value, though it was less agile in tight corners. While not the best-handling car of its time, the 348 had unmatched Ferrari charisma and design pedigree. It was for drivers who valued passion over perfection, sound over silence, and connection over convenience.
Fun Fact
The Ferrari 348 was the last V8 Ferrari personally overseen by Enzo Ferrari before his death in 1988, with early development signed off under his direction. Though it was initially met with mixed reviews due to its demanding dynamics, later revisions dramatically improved its performance and handling—making it now one of the most appreciated “entry-level” Ferraris by collectors. In racing form, the 348 Competizione laid the groundwork for the Challenge series, helping establish Ferrari’s customer racing program for decades to come.