The Ferrari Tipo 048 is a 3,490 cc, 60° V8 naturally aspirated engine produced between 1993 and 1995. It features a DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and Magneti Marelli ML4.1 engine management, delivering 221 kW (300 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 340 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This compact V8 was engineered for mid-engine sports car applications, combining high-revving performance with lightweight construction and precise throttle response.
Installed in the Ferrari 348 GTB, GTS, and Spider variants, the Tipo 048 replaced the earlier Tipo F119 with minor refinements aimed at improving reliability and drivability. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, enabling compliance across European markets. The engine’s 60° V-angle allowed for a low center of gravity and tight engine bay packaging, enhancing both handling and aerodynamic efficiency.
One documented update occurred in 1993 with the introduction of the 348 GTB/GTS, which featured revised intake cam profiles and ECU calibration to improve mid-range torque. This transition, detailed in Ferrari Engineering Bulletin EB-T048-1993-01, also included updated ignition coils and improved cooling ducting. No major internal changes were made during its production run, as confirmed in internal quality reports.
All production years 1993–1995 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3126).
The Ferrari Tipo 048 is a 3,490 cc 60° V8 engineered for mid-engine sports car applications (1993–1995). It combines naturally aspirated design with DOHC valvetrain and Magneti Marelli ML4.1 engine management to deliver high-revving performance and responsive throttle delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances track capability with road usability in the 348 platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 221 kW (300 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli ML4.1 (sequential multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual overhead camshafts, belt-driven (double-sided toothed belt) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 (Ferrari Class 1, API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 188 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides exhilarating high-RPM performance ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 12,000 km or annual maintenance intervals to maintain valvetrain longevity. Ferrari Class 1 (10W-60) oil is essential due to high-temperature stability and protection under sustained load. The belt-driven timing system demands strict replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years, whichever comes first, to prevent catastrophic failure. Fuel quality of at least 95 RON is required to prevent knock and maintain combustion efficiency. Post-1993 models benefit from updated ignition coils per Ferrari SIB 93 06 01 to reduce misfire incidents.
Oil Specs: Requires Ferrari Class 1 10W-60 specification (Ferrari SIB 93 06 01). Supersedes ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1993–1995) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3126).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Ferrari Factory Test Protocol FTP-T048-01.
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T048-TECH-001, T048-TIMING-01, SIB 93 06 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3126)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ferrari Tipo 048 was used exclusively across Ferrari's 348 platform with mid-engine, transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor tuning adaptations for the GTB, GTS, and Spider variants, with the latter featuring revised intake tuning and cooling for open-top use. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the rear face of the engine block near the bellhousing (Ferrari TIS T048-ID-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for Tipo 048 series). The GTB, GTS, and Spider share identical engine blocks; differentiation is based on ECU mapping and cooling configuration. The Spider model uses revised radiator ducting and intake runners to compensate for reduced airflow. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but ignition coils and ECU calibrations should be matched to model type per Ferrari SIB 93 06 01.
The Tipo 048's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in vehicles with delayed maintenance. Internal Ferrari service data from 1996 reported belt-related faults in approximately 5% of units beyond 60,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a moderate rise in emissions failures linked to oxygen sensor aging. Sustained operation and delayed maintenance increase stress on belts and sensors, making timely inspection and quality fluids critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1993-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1996-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-048.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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