Ferrari 348 Spider (24k miles)

History

Launched in 1989 to replace the acclaimed 308/328 range, the Ferrari 348 was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.4 litre version of the quad-cam, 4-valve per cylinder V8 engine which was originally found in the 288 GTO supercar. The engine initially produced 300bhp and sat longitudinally with a transverse mounted gearbox – a major step for Ferrari, as most previous V8 models used a transverse mounted engine with longitudinal transmission.

It was also the first Ferrari to be built around a welded steel monocoque rather than a tubular chassis, bringing considerable gains in torsional rigidity. As with the contemporary V12 Testarossa to which it bears a striking similarity, the innovative Pininfarina styling placed the radiators in dramatically finned side pods which greatly aided cooling inside the cabin when in heavy traffic.

In 1993 the 348 was revised with subtle styling changes and more power, this time producing 320bhp with a wider rear track for improved handling, ride and body control. An open-topped Spider version also became available at this time and contemporary road test spoke of 0-60mph in 5.3 seconds with a top speed of 172mph. Some 8,000 348s were produced before the car was replaced by the 355 in 1994.

First registered in August 1993, this 348 Spider has covered just 24,000 miles from new with a full service history showing 8 stamps to date, all at main dealers or specialists. It had a major service less than 5,000 miles ago with new cam belts, oil seals etc. and is presented in the striking combination of Giallo Fly paintwork with Nero hide interior. It also benefits from air conditioning, ABS brakes and a huge Bose sound system. Still with its original fitted leather toolcase, it also has all its old MOTs and has a current MOT to July 2008. Stored in a Carcoon for the last few years it is said to be in excellent condition throughout and to drive superbly.