Ferrari 348 Structure

In this clean-sheet car, Ferrari's most notable departure from previous form came in the construction of the 348's chassis. The main frame was formed from pressed and box section galvanized steel welded to upright galvanized steel panels such as those of the door posts and bulkheads. Eschewing the tried and true tube steel frame, Ferrari ventured into unfamiliar territory by creating a steel monocoque. The result was a rigid and very strong chassis. It allowed the 348 to dispense with large crash bumpers in favor of integrated crush zones, and made accident damage considerably easier to repair. Through judicious design and welding the basic structure was strengthened.

The Spider and ts/GTS models were more heavily gusseted and braced to make up for the loss of rigidity engendered by the replacement of the coupe's roof with a black plastic one. The ts/GTS actually gained 11 lbs through this process.

Body panels were bolted to the chassis to provide greater rigidity and to carry some of the load. The modular rear sub-frame which held the engine, drivetrain and rear suspension, and which was bolted into the engine bay, added to the strength. The front suspension connected directly to the front section of the chassis. A flat composite panel attached beneath the front and mid-chassis sections smoothed airflow beneath the car.