Welcome to our ‘Car in the Spotlight’ feature, where we shine a light on automotive treasures often overlooked. Today, we’re indebted to Neil Genge, a passionate Ferrari enthusiast, for sharing his journey with his tribute to the exceptional Ferrari 348 Competizione.
The 348 Competizione is a rare and coveted model that occupies a unique space in Ferrari‘s illustrious history. A product of its era, it bridges the gap between the classic Ferrari ethos and the brand’s move towards more modern, technologically advanced supercars.
A Brief History of the Ferrari 348 Competizione
Introduced in 1994, the 348 Competizione was Ferrari’s response to the growing demand for track-focused road cars. It was a time when homologation specials were gaining popularity, and Ferrari, never one to shy away from competition, answered the call. The Competizione was a performance upgrade and a statement of intent.
Based on the standard 348, the Competizione introduced a host of modifications designed to enhance the car’s on-track capabilities. From weight reduction measures to suspension tweaks, the car was honed to deliver a sharper, more focused driving experience.
While the 348 Competizione was a limited production model, it quickly gained a cult following among Ferrari enthusiasts. Its combination of raw performance, classic Ferrari styling, and exclusivity made it a highly desirable car.
Neil Genge is a raving Ferrari enthusiast and has a fascinating history with his 348 Competizione, which he’s sharing with us today. Let’s delve deeper into this automotive gem and discover what makes it so special.
An Owners Viewpoint
I’d love to say this is a genuine Ferrari 348 Competizione, but only 50 were ever made, and only 8 right hand drive models. They’re now fetching up to £200,000, so finding one or purchasing one was very unlikely.
This felt like a challenge more than a restriction. I took it upon myself to turn my Ferrari 348 into a Competizione. This took me over 5 years sourcing pieces from Australia / USA / Germany / Italy, and the UK.
These pieces included:
- Original lightweight wheels from a racing driver in Germany
- Period correct Ferrari Kevlar seats , upholstered in the correct material
- Salbelt harnesses
- Carbon ECU covers
- Carbon door sills
- F40 gear knob
- Retrimmed interior to match Competizione
- Larger manifolds as Competizione
- Sports no cat exhaust
- Carbon splitter
Think I’ve done a good job in that it fooled all the judges at Salon Privé / Blenheim Palace. You should have seen their faces when I said I can’t accept because it’s actually not an original.
When did you buy the car?
I have owned the car for over ten years now
What was the purchase price of the car, and what is its current value?
Purchased for £25,000 ( I could have had a 355 for £30,000) prices were so much lower then! I’ve spent a lot of money converting it into a Ferrari 348 Competizione tribute car with many original parts. So value is around £70.000 now (not that I would sell it).
How much does it cost to service and tax?
Servicing is £2000-£4000 every 3-4 years. Car tax £365. I average 1500 miles a year.
How often do you drive it?
Driving it most weekends to car events/ breakfast meets, etc.
Has it been on any eventful journeys?
One of my most favourite drives was last year to Blenheim Palace Salon Privé, taking part in the 75 years of Ferrari parade and blasting down the Blenheim drive way.
How does it feel like to drive?
It’s old car, but fast enough! Handles like a go kart and has great retro styling. It’s a weekend car that favours long sweeping roads.
How do you look after the car?
I’ve done all the work myself apart from the main service which has been done at Carrs , who I can highly recommend.
Is there another classic or supercar that you’d like to buy, and why?
I’ve always wanted a second classic car, maybe a Testarossa or 308 would fit the bill.
How does it compare to newer models, or other cars you’ve driven?
I’ve driven other modern Ferrari’s, and yes of course their better, faster… but I still prefer the older styling. You can’t get better than a F40 (the 348 and F40 shared the same production line at the factory).
How is the current market for this car, and how do you see this evolving?
Current value of a good 348 with service history is £60.000. I think in the future this will increase due to the low numbers. Currently in the UK there are only 68 RHD TB 348 taxed or sorn.
Is the car a keeper or can you see a time that you’d sell the car to another custodian?
Definitely a keeper.
To conclude
We would like to say a big thank you to Neil into his insight to his ownership of his cool Ferrari 348 Competizione. A rare car indeed.
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