Description
Introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the very successful 328 series, the 348 production line ran until 1995, when the 355 took its place. Late in 1993 the 348 saw subtle revisions in the bodywork and a new engine management system giving a power increase from 300bhp to 320bhp from its 3.4-litre V8. At the same time, the suspension was revised and rear axle widened, vastly improving both the handling and ride quality. In a 2015 retrospective, EVO Magazine compared the 458 Italia against its 308, 348, F355, 360 and F430 ancestors, where Henry Catchpole noted the primary highlight of the day being the 348’s steering, describing it as, “instantly obvious this car has some of the best steering, possibly the best, that I have ever sat behind.” He expounded on the car’s analogue character, describing the steering as, “coming alive in my hands. It literally starts wriggling around, talking excitedly about all the bumps in the road and sometimes making a bigger gesture as a camber attracts its attention. Despite the lack of assistance and the wheel’s relatively small diameter, it’s not heavy in any way, there’s just perfect weight and no slack to add to the constant communication.”
This rare right hand drive, UK delivered 348 Spider is nicely presented in Nero Black with contrasting Crema Leather interior. Showing a mere 40,000 miles recorded from new, supported by the relevant service records, the 348 has been in the ownership of just one enthusiast for the last 11 years, and kept in a temperature controlled garage. A very original example of this modern classic, which is ready to be enjoyed by its next lucky owner.
