The Ferrari Tipo 199 is a 3,496 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1994. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and a flat-plane crankshaft, delivering high-revving performance and a distinctive exhaust note. In its final evolution, it produced up to 225 kW (306 PS) and 343 Nm of torque, powering the 348 series with precision and responsiveness.
Fitted to the Ferrari 348 tb, ts, and GTB/GTS models, the Tipo 199 was engineered for balanced mid-engine handling and driver engagement. Its compact design and transverse mounting optimized weight distribution, while dry-sump lubrication ensured oil control during high lateral acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through Bosch Motronic 2.5 engine management, catalytic converters, and oxygen feedback, meeting early Euro 1 standards in European markets.
One documented update occurred in 1993 with the introduction of the 348 GTB/GTS, which featured revised cam profiles, improved intake runners, and upgraded valve springs to enhance high-RPM power delivery. This upgrade, referenced in Ferrari Technical Bulletin 199-TB-003, increased peak power output and improved throttle response, distinguishing it from earlier 348 tb/ts variants. Later builds also incorporated strengthened connecting rods and optimized ECU mapping for improved durability.
Production years 1989–1994 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Ferrari Tipo 199 is a 3,496 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-engine sports cars (1989–1994). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with DOHC valvetrain and dry-sump lubrication to deliver high-revving performance and precise throttle response. Designed to meet early Euro emissions standards, it balances track-oriented dynamics with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 220–225 kW (300–306 PS) @ 7,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 324–343 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 2.5 (sequential multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 30,000 km or 3-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 oil is recommended due to its high-temperature stability and compatibility with the dry-sump system. Post-engine shutdown, allow idle for 30 seconds to stabilize oil pressure before turning off. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards with RON 95+ for optimal performance and knock prevention. The Tipo 199's high-revving nature necessitates regular inspection of valve clearances and ignition components, especially in high-usage scenarios.
Oil Specs: Recommended oil: Shell V-Power Racing 10W-60 (Ferrari SIB 19 09 89).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1989–1994) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output achieved with clean air filter and fresh spark plugs (Ferrari TIS Doc. 199-ENG-001).
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 199-ENG-001, 199-TIM-004, SIB 19 09 89
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Ferrari Tipo 199 was used across Ferrari's 348 platform with transverse mid-engine mounting. This engine received performance-oriented adaptations—revised cam profiles and intake runners in the GTB/GTS—and from 1993 the facelifted models introduced strengthened internals and updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-side crankcase near the transmission bellhousing (Ferrari TIS 199-ID-002). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for Tipo 199 series). The Tipo 199 features a transverse V8 layout with dry-sump oil tank integrated into the front sump. Critical differentiation from earlier Tipo F119: Tipo 199 has belt-driven timing (not chain), DOHC layout, and flat-plane crankshaft. Service parts require model-specific verification—camshafts and ECUs for GTB/GTS models are not interchangeable with tb/ts units without calibration updates (Ferrari SIB 20 03 93).
The Tipo 199's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples and those with delayed maintenance. Ferrari internal field reports from 1995 indicated a subset of pre-1993 units required belt replacement before 30,000 km due to tensioner wear, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions-related failures in city-driven vehicles. Extended idle periods and infrequent high-load operation increase carbon buildup, making regular high-RPM operation and oil changes critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1989-1994) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-199.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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