Model reliability, 8's specifically | FerrariChat
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Model reliability, 8's specifically

Discussion in 'Ferrari Discussion (not model specific)' started by imoz, Jun 6, 2005.

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  1. imoz

    imoz Rookie

    Feb 20, 2004
    38
    Philly 'Burbs
    Full Name:
    Joe
    #1 imoz, Jun 6, 2005
    I was wondering if anyone could comment on the reliability of the various mid range models, cars like the 348tb, 348ts, 355, 355 F1 spider. I've been poking around ebay and the web looking at what's available.

    I know F cars tend to get a reputation for reliability issues but I'm trying to separate internet rumor from fact. I've heard of guys who buy a 355 and the thing keeps blowing up, but I've also heard of guys daily driving their F-cars with minimal issues. Is it hit or miss? What is the real scoop?

    I was hoping someone could give me a brief rundown of the cars and common issues and a relative reliability rating. I take it it is better to look for a car that has actually been driven regularly as opposed to sitting in someone's garage somewhere? I'm looking for something I can drive on a relatively regular basis (1-3 days a week) without it blowing up every month. I have a Z to be my primary daily driver and winter car (Blizzacks).

    Thanks,
    Joe
     
  2. PerryJ

    PerryJ Formula 3

    Jun 5, 2003
    1,909
    N. Alabama
    Full Name:
    John Perry
    #2 PerryJ, Jun 6, 2005
    The prior service history is the most important item to consider.

    there are good and bad cars of each model.

    If you can afford a 355 over 348 you wont be disappointed,

    as has been said here many times buy the newest car you can afford.

    try a search here on 355 reliablity and same for 348 you find enough info to write a book.

    enjoy.
     
  3. Lusso5

    Lusso5 Karting

    May 2, 2005
    69
    Houston, Texas
    #3 Lusso5, Jun 6, 2005
    IMO F-cars are generaly reliable, and the issue is that owners not only do not drive them, but they do not drive them correctly.

    A car needs to be driven in its powerband. If you own a car that makes peak power at 8500rpm, and you tool around in it all the time below 3500rpm, you are going to create alot of heat and wear accelerating from below the power band. Many owners seem to be weary of keeping the revs up because they are afraid of damage/maintenance, or the noise is simply uncomfortable to them - their thinking is the opposite of what they should be doing. That is why you will notice cars with over 100k and compression within spec on all cylinders, and cars needing rebuilds at 30k.

    When buying a car with a high-strung powerplant, always ask about driving habits of the owner - and make sure to check they are using clutches, because other than highway driving, a rev-happy car should be consuming clutches.

    Just my opinion.
     
  4. tubeguy

    tubeguy Formula 3

    May 21, 2003
    1,041
    Upland California
    Full Name:
    Kevin Deal
    #4 tubeguy, Jun 6, 2005
    Look at a bunch and get an idea of wear marks. 355 esp it is common to have the speedo unhook or rolled.


    If you see a car that has 4k miles on it, and the brake handle is work or the inside door handle is worn....be careful. That's why you should look at a bunch first to get a baseline.

    Also the label sewn on the seat belt. They wear. And if the car is "new" it should look as such. Those three things are tell tale signs.

    Lastly...check to see if the brakes have been replaced. And clutch. A 4k mile car should not have had that done. There is a lot of BS on these models. I prefer to get one that has a few miles and hopefully has had some larger items done. And though guys use these as daily drivers I wouldn't. Too much drama.
     
  5. imoz

    imoz Rookie

    Feb 20, 2004
    38
    Philly 'Burbs
    Full Name:
    Joe
    #5 imoz, Jun 6, 2005
    Thanks, I should have searched first. I just spent several hours reading some old threads and still have lots to go. At this point I think I'm leaning towards a 1995 (last production year?) 348 Spider based on some comments in old threads and the 348 Buyer's Guide in an old issue of Forza I dug up. The exhaust manifold and valve guide issues with the 355 scare me but I need to read more about them and understand what they really involve. We'll see, I still have a lot of reading and research to do and need to decide if I really want to take the F-car plunge at this point or try a late model Esprit for awhile. Right now planning to buy end of summer/4th quarter, after I move, or 1st qtr 2006.
     

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