1991 Ferrari 348 TS
Few experiences compare to unleashing a Ferrari V8 on an open road, and the 1991 Ferrari 348 TS delivers that thrill with unapologetic 1990s flair. With its removable targa top off, you can hear the sharp bark of its 3.4-liter engine echo off city skyscrapers – a red-blooded Italian soundtrack that would make any Aussie V8 fall silent in reverence.
Clad in Rosso Corsa (Ferrari’s signature red), the 348 TS carries a design language influenced by the legendary Testarossa – note the iconic side strakes – but on a more agile, lithe platform. It’s a bridge between the old-school gated-shifter Ferraris and the modern era: no power steering, no electronic nannies – just pure mechanical connection bonding driver, machine, and road. Immaculate care and careful ownership have preserved this example like a time capsule; its low 30,000 km mileage suggests a pampered life.
Slide into the cockpit and you’re greeted by the open-gate metal shifter and a cabin swathed in hand-stitched Italian leather. Every toggle, pedal, and analog gauge reflects Maranello’s racing DNA. In a country where supercars were once a rarity, the 348 offers Australian enthusiasts a visceral taste of Ferrari’s heritage – outclassing anything that ever rolled out of a local Aussie factory in terms of pedigree and engineering finesse.
Why the Ferrari 348 TS Is Special
As the last of the analog V8 Ferraris before the electronic driving aids took over, the 348 TS has garnered new appreciation among collectors. This model represents a farewell to an era of pure, unfiltered driving. There’s no power steering, no traction control, and only a classic five-speed gated manual gearbox. The result is a car that provides an immersive connection between driver and machine that modern supercars sometimes lack.
The outstanding originality and condition of this particular car further set it apart. Not only does it look as if it just rolled out of Maranello, but it’s also mechanically sound – a crucial factor for any investment-grade sports car. Enthusiasts value such well-preserved, low-mileage examples because they offer both authenticity and reliability, enhancing the car’s desirability.
Collectability and Investment Potential
Ferrari values have been on a steady climb, especially for gated manual models from the analog era, and the 348 TS is no exception. Once undervalued, the 348 has recently been recognised as a hidden gem. Fewer 348s were made than the later F355, giving it a rarity factor. A well-kept, original 348 TS like this one has likely bottomed out in depreciation and now stands to gain value. Its status as the last mid-engine V8 launched during Enzo Ferrari’s lifetime adds historical significance that collectors appreciate. Ultimately, beyond monetary considerations, owning a 348 TS means possessing a piece of Ferrari history – one that delivers a rewarding experience every time you get behind the wheel.
At CCI | Classic Car Imports, we share your passion for these automotive icons. We take pride in sourcing and delivering the finest classic and exotic cars to enthusiasts in Australia and beyond. This immaculate 1991 Ferrari 348 TS is a prime example of our commitment to quality and authenticity – a vehicle that will elevate any collection and deliver a thrilling, nostalgic drive every time you turn the key. For collectors and drivers alike, the 348 TS stands as an icon of a bygone era that still shines brightly today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the “348 TS” name stand for?
The “TS” in 348 TS stands for Trasversale Spider. Ferrari designated the 348 coupe as the TB (“Trasversale Berlinetta”), and the targa-top version as the TS. “Trasversale” refers to the transverse gearbox layout, and Spider signifies the removable targa roof panel of this model.
2. How rare is the Ferrari 348 TS?
Ferrari produced approximately 4,200 units of the 348 TS between 1989 and 1994. That makes it relatively rare – especially compared to its successor, the F355, which saw higher production. Finding one today in low-mileage, original condition is even rarer, adding to its collectability.
3. What are the performance specs of the 348 TS?
The 348 TS is powered by a 3.4-liter V8 with around 300 hp. It can sprint from 0–100 km/h in roughly 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of about 270 km/h. While not as blisteringly fast as modern supercars, it’s still impressively quick, and the way it delivers power (with a high-revving, naturally aspirated roar) is pure driving theatre.
4. Why is the 348 considered the last analog Ferrari V8?
The 348 was the final mid-engine V8 Ferrari before modern driver aids became the norm. It has no power steering, no traction control, and only a traditional manual gearbox – no paddle-shift option. By the time the F355 and 360 Modena arrived, Ferrari had added power steering, electronics, and later paddle-shift transmissions. That makes the 348 the last of the old-school, purely mechanical V8 Ferraris – a big reason purists cherish its raw driving feel.
5. Is the Ferrari 348 TS a good investment?
Many collectors consider a well-maintained 348 TS to be a solid investment. Prices for clean, original examples have been gradually rising as enthusiasts recognise its significance and analog charm. While market values can fluctuate, the general trend for 1990s Ferraris – especially those with gated manuals – suggests that the 348 TS is likely to hold its value or appreciate over time.
6. How can CCI | Classic Car Imports help me acquire a car like this?
CCI | Classic Car Imports specialises in sourcing, importing, and delivering classic cars like the Ferrari 348 TS. If you’re looking for a specific model, we can leverage our worldwide network to find the right example for you. We handle everything – from inspection and purchase to shipping, compliance with Australian regulations, and registration – making it easy for you to own your dream car. In short, we take care of the heavy lifting so you can simply enjoy the drive.
