I have a '79 308GTS. I've always loved the 348, and need some thoughts about selling the 308 and buying a nice 348TS. Good idea, bad idea....and why? Thanks!
Bad idea, because this is the 308 board. Frankly, go with your heart. There is no merit in a Ferrari ownership based on calculated enthusiasm no matter which model you choose 😊
Nothing wrong with lusting after another Ferrari- I too love the 348TS and have a 308GTS. I just love the 308 a little bit more.
I like the 348 a lot and feels its underrated. That being said, there is no way I would sell my 308 for one. Other than power I don't see the benefit to the change. For me to move out of the 308 it would have to be to at least a 355. You gain power steering, more power, nicer interior, and better looks (thats subjective).
I have to admit I like the 348 GTB. Don't care much for targas. I recently saw in person a very clean 348 GTB where the owner removed the side strakes and put challenge rims on it. It was gorgeous. If I could do the same I would. Do whatever gets your heart racing and don't look back.
The Ferraris to buy right now, IMHO, are the emerging classic 308 and the depreciating modern F430. Other than the 328, the in-between models are all a compromise -- not as fast as a 458 or 488, or lacking the hand-finishing and exotic proportions and trim of the old school 246 or 308. The motorized mouse seat belts, Tron-font gauges, sticky plastic, shrinking dash leather, cracking C-pillars, single belt configuration, etc., would all sway me away from a 348 (assuming the exploding gearbox, under-spec'ed alternator, expensive dual clutch, etc. had been taken care of by previous owners.) On the plus side, 348s are cheap to buy, and I've always liked the stance.
I think the 308 will keep its cult following more than the 348, and will keep its value better in the long run. However, most people just get tired of a certain car after owning, driving, and maintaining it for a while, and just want to try something different. The 348 has some different repair/maintenance issues because of the longitudinal placement of the engine. If both cars are in the same condition, I think the 348 is the better car mechanically and drivability wise. Generally I think, the 308 may be a bit over-valued and the 348 is a bit undervalued, so you could probably make a good transition to another car. I have regretted selling a few cars, but I think I have enjoyed having the experience of owning many different cars more. Sometimes a car can also become a ball and chain. You hate to sell it, but tired of owning it, too. I have never owned either one, so my opinion may be a little limited. Good luck, Jerry
