Market Position:
The Ferrari 348 was Ferrari's entry-level mid-engined V8 sports car of the early 1990s, positioned as a more accessible model than the F40 or V12 models. It represented a significant shift in Ferrari's design language, moving towards more modern, angular styling.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other high-performance V8 sports cars of the era, such as the Porsche 964, Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1, and Lotus Esprit.
Key Features:
Mid-engined V8, rear-wheel drive, distinctive Pininfarina styling, gated manual shifter, and a focus on driver engagement.
Manual Value Proposition:
This factory manual is indispensable for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Ferrari 348. Its comprehensive nature ensures accuracy and adherence to Ferrari's exacting standards, crucial for preserving the value and performance of these classic supercars.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, engine management (ECU), timing belt replacement, valve adjustments, piston/ring inspection, crankshaft/rod bearing replacement.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (all variants), clutch system, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanisms.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, brake disc inspection, hydraulic system bleeding, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, alternator, battery system, lighting system, dashboard instruments, fuses, relays, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU pinouts, basic electronic component testing.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood/trunk latches, convertible top operation (for TS/GTS), interior trim removal, chassis inspection, structural components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, climate control unit, refrigerant recharge procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, measurement data, wiring diagrams, component identification.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures for complex systems.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3405 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.4:1
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic (specific version may vary, e.g., Motronic 2.7 or 2.8)
Horsepower Peak:
Approximately 300-310 PS (296-306 bhp) at 7200 rpm
Torque Peak:
Approximately 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) at 5500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI or higher)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based, depending on specific Motronic version.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 Liters (check manual for exact spec)
Oil Type Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for precise Ferrari approval)
Length:
Approximately 4350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approximately 1750 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1130 mm (44.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2350 mm (92.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1420-1470 kg (3130-3240 lbs), depending on body style
Front Track:
Approximately 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Rear Track:
Approximately 1510 mm (59.4 in)
Safety Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA/Euro NCAP) readily available for this era and manufacturer. Emphasis on active safety through handling.
Active Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard on later models and optional on earlier ones. Balanced chassis design, responsive steering, high-performance tires.
Passive Features:
Seatbelts, impact-absorbing structure, fixed head restraints.
Major Service Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or annually. Key items include timing belt replacement (critical, typically every 3-5 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first), spark plugs, fluids, filters, and inspection of all major components.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Extremely critical. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Manual will detail procedure and component replacement (tensioners, idlers).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Ferrari-approved coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for exact specification, high-performance fluid recommended).
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic fluid compatible with Italian power steering systems, specific type documented in manual.
Known Issues:
Timing belt failure risk, aging fuel lines and connectors, potential electrical gremlins, wear on suspension bushings, gearbox synchromesh wear, clutch wear, aging dashboard materials.
Common Repairs:
Timing belt replacement service, clutch replacement, suspension bushing replacement, ignition coil replacement, fuel injector cleaning/replacement.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual or reputable Ferrari parts suppliers (e.g., MANN-Filter W940/24, Champion C322, Fram PH8390 are often cited as cross-references, but factory part numbers are best).
Timing Belt Kit Part Number:
Refer to manual or Ferrari parts supplier for specific belt, tensioner, and idler pulley kit part numbers.
Brand Heritage:
Ferrari has a long and storied history in motorsport and luxury sports car manufacturing, dating back to the 1940s. Known for engineering excellence, performance, and exotic styling.
Model Evolution:
The 348 succeeded the 328 GTB/GTS and was the first 'entry-level' Ferrari to feature the V8 engine in a transverse gearbox layout. It was later succeeded by the F355, which significantly improved upon the 348's refinement and performance.
Production Years:
1989-1994
Production Volumes:
Approximately 8,800 units produced across all variants (TB, TS, GTB, GTS).
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy
