Why does it seem that 328's and 348's are so close in market price?
Indeed, it's been said that the 348 and 328 represent "sidesteps" in terms up an overall better/worse car, as opposed to an upgrade or downgrade. They're so very different; one's advantages are often the other's disadvantages and people's tastes and preference will tend to half prefer one, and half the other--as opposed to the majority preferring the later model. Example: Looks; Performance; Reliability; Maintenance Costs; Interior Space; A/C; Handling. These are all areas of importance and the 328 takes some, the 348 takes others... It's not like the 348 is perceived to be better in ALL of these areas. The argument can be supported with 348 vs. 355 arguments... 355 is a significant refinement and is better in *most* of the above areas, and this supports the price differential inbetween those two models. That said... I don't know whether or not I'd do an even steven trade for a 348 from my 328... Now there's a question . Maybe we should post a poll?
Don't own a 348 (and don't have anything against the 348) but I was told that the earlier 348's ('89 to '91 or '92) have some issues (electrical-, ?mechanical- , etc.) and these contributed to the strength of the 328 in the current market. A lot of 348 owners are happy though and think the issue is blown out of proportion. If I were to get a 348, I would like a '93 (Speciale).
I would agree, the reputation of the early 348's keeps the prices down, and sales slow....but also agree that the issue is way over blown. I have talked to may 348 owners, and other than the alternators going, they seem to be relatively trouble free. Upgrade the alternator seems a "must do".
The 328's had all the bugs worked out being the last of the "308's". The 348 being new in the market had alot of bugs to work out. Good car, but had issues. The latter models of the 348's were better. This is reflected in the price difference between the 1990 348 and the 1994 models. Ron
I have learned that these type of comparisons will never end. Really this is a good thing because it means that every car model will appeal to a certain person. When you read posts making comparisons on power, handling, looks, a/c, early model problems, etc.. try this: Just substitute models and keep reading. See if you agree: 328 vs 348 348 vs 355 355 vs 360 bb512 vs testarossa f40 vs f50 f50 vs enzo 456 vs 456m (just to make a point ) 550 vs 575 You get the idea. Each model car looks to improve. Ferrari does not set out to make an inferior car and I believe each model has improved in some way - maybe not "your" way. Keep in mind - some people think living in a log cabin with no running water is a better way to live then living in the penthouse of Trump tower in New York . The common points for all models - the earlier ones have problems and are generally worked out by the factory over time. If the car is more than 5 years old and has been driven 2k a year - the previous owner has probably paid to sort out any factory defects. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the latest and greatest is usually perceived to be better. Isn't marketing great. BTW - I own a 348 Spider ( no problems and obviously not an early production model ) and I do NOT want a 355.
I've never had a problem with my 348, runs like a champ. I think the 348 is presently undervalued and that is why the values are close. I love the 308 and 328 but I couldn't pay more for a 328 than a 348 even though I love a 328. Could you pay more for a 348 than a 355?
I think that the 328 looks better, the 348 was not as popular, and the maintenance if far more expensive. The 348 have a more agresive stand but the 328 lines are more beautiful. Then again the 348 looks like a Testarossa but not as perfect not with the same perfect balance in the lines. This is just the way I feel not exactly the way other people may.
I think it's the cheese grater issue as well as the lack of dependability of early 348's. 328's are the Toyota of all Ferrari's in terms of reliability. Plus 328's have the classic look.
I would rather own a 328 than a 348. For what I paid for my 328 (1989 w/ 13,000 miles), I could of owned a 348 (later years). Nothing against a 348. Its a Ferrari, and I respect that, and their owners. But unfortunatley, for me, I really see a Fiero (sorry if I offended anyone) everytime I look at one. I think the sides are hideous, as opposed to the Testarossa. I didn't like the 348 when it was new, but I always loved the 308,328, 355 and the 360. When I buy my next Ferrari, it will be a 360 or a 355. I think that move, for me, would be what I consider a "vertical" move. In closing, I would keep my 328 before I would buy a 348. I can't speak for 348 owners, but I would have to guess that their next car would be a 355 or a 360, not a 328.
The 348 would just not be the same without the cheese graters and they do add a lot of character to the car. Its unmistakably a Ferrari design. I'm surprised so many people don't care for them. Rob.
I wouldn't trade my 348 for a 355...Not a trade up in my opinion. Too many people say the 360 is boring. That's the problem with all the new exotics. too much refinment. The 348 is the last "little *****"... as in, FUN TO DRIVE!
