Also kinda interested in replies...
Would prefer a 355 but price wise a 348 falls in budget.

I think the 348 is a bargain right now.

Worth bearing in mind servicing is more expensive than a 355 but even so....

At mid-twenties, it'd be rude not to! I think the 355 will be a better long term investment, however I believe the 348 is on the cusp of rising in terms of its value (look at 328's...).

If I were minded to buy a second Ferrari, it'd be a 348, even over a 360.

Who cares if its not as modern, who cares if its not as quick, its a Ferrari, its beautiful, it makes that noise and every time you looked at her, freshly wax'd you'd grin like a cheshire cat. Perhaps even more importantly, every time you opened the throttle, or saw your reflection in a shop window.....

'fk me, it looks good!'

according to Adam Eyre the engine has to come out for jobs that the engine remains in place for on the 355

give him a bell and ask him : http://www.aeperformance.co.uk/

He just said overall servicing costs on the 348 were higher as a result,

Just buy one, most reliable car I've ever owned. You could buy something far more sensible that will cost you nothing in maintanence and thousands in depreciation. As for the jobs that need doing when the engine is out: Cam seals, probably ??? Nothing to worry about.

I've been looking also, came from Cerbera, and a Tuscan. Decided they were still slightly out of reach, so bought an Assetto Corsa Maserati for the next couple of years, then it's the 348. The asking prices have been steadily increasing over the last 2-3 years, can't see them getting any cheaper, so if funds allow, go for it.

Better to ask for advice on the regular Ferrari forums, the Ferrarichat.com 348 section is very active and knowledgeable.

A good 348 is a sound buy, but be aware that there many, many shabby examples out there and a bad Ferrari is no fun at all. Caveat emptor. I would try and find the best out there, it won't be that more expensive and is likely to give you a lot more joy.

Some quick tips:

1. 348's are 20 years old
2. Ferrari's don't like sitting. Look for a good record of recent use (say 1000 miles a year at least)
3. Most are bought by people who can't afford to run them properly. Be aware of cars that have changed hands a lot recently
4. Make sure you have some money in the bank to deal with issues after the buy. Once your car is sorted they are reliable but quite often soemthing needs to be done.
5. There are a lot of previously crashed examples out there. Certainly here on the continent I know examples that are on the road but were a complete insurance write-off in the past. Be very careful!
6. No such thing as a bargain Ferrari. If a car looks a bargain, It is cheap for a reason. A bad reason.
7. Drive at least 4 or 5 cars before making your decision, and preferably bring someone that has owned one in the past before parting with your money.
8. Have an independent PPI done.

For those of you out there that think I'm overly cautious, I can assure you it always pays to be diligent in the Ferrari world.

Good luck!


Onno

Please elaborate. Specially the section of your detail post which claims: "worst ferrari to buy".

'Biased owners posted to keep to price up" - you're funny.

I own one which I bought last August and I'm very happy with it.

I'd repeat the earlier suggestion of seeing several - quality of them varies a lot, even though they are all "immaculate" in the ads. I set myself a budget of £25k when I was looking, but actually ended up spending £29k because that car was noticeably better than the others I'd seen.

To answer the question of why the engine has to come out - that is for the major service every 3 years and to replace the belts. Apparently, it is possible to do it with engine in, but not practical - but I can live with that every 3 years.

Mine has had a few minor things that needed sorting while I've owned it, but it's been a very easy car to work on. In July, I will also carry out the minor service myself since even independent prices seemed unreasonable for little more than an oil change to me.

If you do buy, be aware of one thing. MOT regs have changed this year, which means if your car originally had cats fitted it still needs cats fitted - otherwise it will fail visual inspection. Mine had the cats removed, so I've just had to fit a set.

As an owner, I recommend them. Very different to any other car I've owned - including the 964 model 911 I owned for almost 10 years before it.

Yip, friendly tester and case of beer.