The Ferrari 348 Challenge – A close look at the performance, technical data, features, rival comparison, history, used prices of this classic sports car.
from classic to modern
The Ferrari 348 Challenge
CAR
Ferrari’s 348 Challenge sports car was a one-make racing series, first created in 1993 and aimed at amateur drivers. It was initially established in Europe and within a year it had spread to the US.
Originally the series focused on 348 Converted Series Speciale cars, but was later expanded to 348 starting in 1989 that reached the 348 SS specification.
In 1994, Ferrari introduced a limited edition of only 45 cars, consisting of 32×348 TB and 13×348 TS, destined for the American market, which were designated as the 348 Factory Challenge.
Sports cars in the Speciale Series featured thresholds painted the same color as the rest of the car, and this feature was carried over to the Challenge Series.
These Challenge cars had road trims and each received an individually numbered plaque that was affixed to the right door frame.
They were equipped with improved engine control units, a large heat shield, and a less restrictive exhaust system, although there was a racing version that used straight pipes. Also included were:
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Points to attach the harness
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Mounting points for roll cage
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aluminum pedals
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Brake ducts under the car
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Tow hooks on both ends of the car
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Stiffer springs
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Fiberglass front and rear bumpers.
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel with “348” insignia
The cost of the optional Ferrari Challenge kit was $ 14,000, and they indicated that, with this kit, it would take around 60 man hours to convert the original car into race equipment.
The 3.4 liter double overhead cam V8 engine used in the Challenge Series would develop an increase of 320 hp.
The resulting racer would use slick tires and have an improved braking system and improved aerodynamics.
The 1995 season was the last in which the 348 Challenge car was entered in the races, as, at the time, it had been superseded by the Ferrari 355 Challenge model.
The Ferrari 348 Serie Speciale
CAR
Ferrari’s Serie Speciale sports car referred to a limited edition of 100 modified versions of the 348 TB and TS that was built between 1992 and 1993, and was aimed solely at the US market.
Since the rear wheels used wider tires, the rear track was increased by two inches. It was also equipped with:
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Free flow exhaust system
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Upper final drive
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Front divider
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New front and rear grill
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Alternative taillight assembly
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Bumpers and rocker covers marching the color of the car.
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Sports seats and door panels, both trimmed in leather.
Each sports car was individually numbered with a special plate affixed to the passenger door post.
Finally, in 1994, another 15 units were built as a result of favorable demand.
THE MOTOR
The 348 Series Speciale was powered by the same 3.4-liter dual-overhead cam V8 engine that was fitted to the original variants.
However, this unit was slightly modified and developed 312 bhp at 7200 rpm, while still producing the same top speed, but with a marginal reduction in 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds.
COMPETENCE
A cross section of the competition for the 348 Challenge and Series Speciale cars included: Corvette ZR1, Honda NSX and Marcos LM500. Ferrari performance:
This marks the end of my Ferrari 348 Challenge and Special Series Sports Car Review.