If you ever come across a Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale, keep it - it's a rare gem, one of the 100 TS units Ferrari made. It possesses a distinctive Speciale badge that sets it apart from the standard TS. Under the hood, you'll find a capable 3.4L V8 engine, which delivers an impressive 312 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. The Series Speciale commands a higher tag due to its limited production and exclusive features. Though the market price can fluctuate based on conditions and mileage, potential buyers should be prepared for an investment that reflects the vehicle's rarity and prestige. Ferrari offered 348 TS Series Speciale in two primary trims: the TB and the TS. The TB is the coupe version, while the TS, or 'Spider,' is the convertible variant. Interestingly, despite their highly-regarded status today, the 348 TS and the 348 TS Series Speciale were considered unsuccessful upon their initial release because critics at the time felt the bump in power did not justify the price increase. Today, however, these vehicles have become treasured by car enthusiasts for their rarity and unique place in Ferrari's storied history. Join us in this review as we learn more about the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale. You can also get another Ferrari from us at Exotic Car Trader.
The history of the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale began in 1989 with the unveiling of the 348 TS standard variant. In 1992, Ferrari released the TS Speciale model, designed as an upgrade to the standard 348 series and also to focus on performance and exclusivity. Only 100 units were made. Each car was meticulously crafted in Maranello, Italy, and bore the prestigious "Speciale" badge, a mark of its unique status. The Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale models, like the standard TS models, had different body styles. The TB 'Berlinetta' model was the coupe version (35 were made), while the TS 'Spider' model was the convertible targa top variant (65 were made). Each version had a unique persona, with the Spider offering an open-air driving experience and the Berlinetta offering a more traditional, enclosed supercar feel. The 348 Series Speciale units had a modified suspension and increased power output by 12 hp. To tame the extra power, the 348 Serie Speciale sported wider tires to improve cornering and stability and to give the car a more aggressive stance. Beyond its rarity and performance, the Serie Speciale marked a significant turning point for Ferrari. It paved the way for future limited-edition models like the 355 Fiorano, 360 Challenge Stradale, and the iconic 430 Scuderia. Inspired by the Serie Speciale's formula of focused performance and exclusivity, these cars became cornerstones of Ferrari's offerings.
The heart of the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale is its formidable 3.4-liter V8 engine. This powertrain generates a robust 312 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the standard 348 models by 12 horsepower. This upsurge in power is noticeable, particularly in the mid-range, where the Speciale pulls with greater urgency. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission that delivers power to the rear wheels, resulting in a top speed of approximately 171 mph and a 0 to 60 mph time of under 6 seconds. The engine's performance is impressive, but it's worth noting its fuel efficiency. It delivers around 10 mpg in city driving and approximately 15 mpg on the highway, which may be considered low by today's standards but comparable to other supercars of its era. Regarding engine technology and reliability, the 348 TS Series Speciale features the Bosch Motronic 2.5 fuel injection and ignition control system. However, the vehicle's reliability was just below what many people expected from Ferrari. Some owners reported issues with the vehicle's electrics and complex engine management system. It didn't stop the car from being highly sought after. The driving experience of the 348 TS Series Speciale is smooth and responsive. The power delivery is linear, and the engine noise, a throaty roar unmistakably Ferrari, adds to the thrilling driving experience. However, against other models in the Ferrari lineup, such as the F355, the engine of the 348 TS Series Speciale may seem less refined. Compared to contemporary rivals like the Lamborghini Diablo and the Porsche 911 Carrera 4, the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale holds its ground. While the Diablo offers greater power, it sacrifices fuel efficiency and handling. On the other hand, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 provides a more refined driving experience and better fuel efficiency but doesn't deliver the same raw power or exclusivity as the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale. Therefore, while the 348 TS Series Speciale may have perceived weaknesses, its unique blend of performance, style, and rarity makes it an iconic classic in the supercar category.
The interior of the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale is sporty and luxurious and has lots of high-quality materials used throughout. Many of the units on the market either have a black leather interior or a two-tone black and tan leather interior. Both interior finishes look great. The focal point of the cockpit is the driver-oriented dashboard, which features a traditional black color scheme embedded with classic Ferrari red accents. The dashboard is constructed from durable and soft-touch materials, and it looks layered in design. The center console, neatly laid out and user-friendly, houses a variety of controls. These include the climate control switches and a vintage radio. The shift gate, one of Ferrari's iconic hallmarks, is prominently positioned on the center console. Gear shifts are smooth, and the knob feels firm to the touch. It might get cold or hot, depending on the weather. The gauge clusters are clear and legible, with a large tachometer in the center, emphasizing the car's performance-focused character. They're flanked to the left and right by the large-sized AC vents. Then, of course, there's the steering wheel, which is devoid of any buttons and airbags - Ferrari only started using airbags in their steering wheels a few years later. The leather wrap of the steering wheel ensures a firm and comfortable grip. The seats blend comfort and sportiness, featuring ample bolstering to hold you in place. Both seats have manual adjustability, allowing you and your passenger to find an ideal seating position. Interior storage is limited in the 348 TS Speciale. So you're better off with an organizer for it. The door handles, crafted from quality materials, look sporty and feature a pull mechanism to open the door from the inside. It's the same thing you'd find on the standard TS internal door handles. The overall high-end finishes inside the cabin underscore the car's premium positioning. However, passengers taller than six feet might feel cramped due to the car's compact dimensions.
Starting from the front, the car sports a wide, low-slung profile with a sleek, aerodynamically optimized hood. The grille, a simple and elegant assembly of horizontal slats, complements the aggressive front fascia. The headlights are housed in pop-up units, a popular design choice in the era the car was built, and add a dash of retro flair to the vehicle's front view. Below these, neatly recessed fog lights complete the car's forward illumination setup. As we move to the side, its flared wheel arches and sleek body lines further emphasize the 348 TS Series Specials's athletic stance. The doors are typical of the TS lineup, with a slightly dramatic opening mechanism. The side mirrors are aerodynamically shaped and offer good rear visibility. The wheels of the 348 TS Series Speciale are unique. They measure about 17 inches in diameter and are wrapped in performance tires. Its multi-spoke design improves the overall look of the car. Moving towards the rear, you'll encounter a massive rear window that doubles as the engine cover. The design gives you a sneak peek of the car's powerful V8 engine. The tail lights, housed in distinctive round units, provide ample luminance and add a touch of classic Ferrari styling. The dual tailpipes protrude prominently from the rear bumper but don't affect the overall look of the car's rear. There are only a few exciting things about the exterior of the Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale. It looks the same as the regular 348 TS, save for its "Speciale" badging and the disappearance of the strakes on the tail lights.
The Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale, despite its production era in the late 1980s and early 1990s, boasts of a few tech features. The V8 naturally aspirated transversely mounted engine in this unit is controlled by a Bosch Motronic 2.5 engine control unit. Ferrari's sports car heritage is also evident in the vehicle's suspension system, which utilizes independent, unequal-length wishbone suspension at both the front and rear. This advanced suspension system, coupled with anti-roll bars and sturdy shock absorbers, contributes to the car's agile handling and stable cornering abilities. There's also a 348 TS Series Speciale anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard, as well as air conditioning.
The pricing for a Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale reflects its status as a premium sports car and a collectible classic. As of the current market, the price can vary significantly based on factors such as the car's condition, mileage, and provenance. Generally, a well-maintained 348 TS Series Speciale with low mileage can command prices upwards of $70,000 - $90,000. Cars with higher mileage or those needing restoration can be found between $50,000 and $70,000. Exceptionally pristine examples, those with unique provenance or very low mileage, might even fetch over $100,000. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change due to the classic car market's volatility and the car's increasing collectibility. Additional costs, like maintenance, insurance, and fuel, should be considered when purchasing this automotive icon.
The Ferrari 348 TS Series Speciale remains an excellent choice for those seeking to own a piece of Ferrari's colorful history. With its high-revving V8 engine, an iconic gated shifter, an advanced suspension system, and distinctive Ferrari styling, it is undoubtedly a classic sports car that captivates. Its blend of thrilling performance and classic Italian style, coupled with potential value appreciation, makes it a compelling choice for car enthusiasts and investors. If you're considering acquiring this Italian masterpiece, Exotic Car Trader should be on your radar. Renowned for its streamlined online processes, Exotic Car Trader makes buying and selling cars a hassle-free experience, offering an extensive range of vehicles to cater to different tastes and preferences. With their emphasis on transparency and simplicity, you're only a few clicks away from buying or selling your car. If you're lucky enough to find yourself behind the wheel of one, savor every twist, turn, and exhilarating burst of power. The Serie Speciale is a legend.
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