Vehicle Description
1978 Ferrari 308 GTS
Designer: Leonardo Fioravanti
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Estimate: $75,000 - $95,000
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Chassis Number: 23705
Engine: 2.9L Dual Cam, 16 Valve, 240 bhp V-8
Four Weber 40 DCNF Two-Barrel Carburetors
Five-Speed Manual Transmission
Four-Wheel Ventilated Power Disk Brakes
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Mileage: 37,101 Miles Actual
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Fresh Major Service Including Cam Belt Replacement
Matching Numbers Automobile
Books, Tools, and Jack Kit Included
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The Model: In the mid-1970s everyone was on the lookout for
Ferrari's replacement for the Dino. Ferrari engaged Pininfarina
design legend, Leonardo Fioravanti, to breathe life into what is
now one of Ferrari's most iconic shapes. The gorgeous design was an
instant hit at the 1975 Paris Motor Show and would survive in
fundamental form to grace the legendary 288 GTO. The first 1976
model 308s wore fiberglass body shells while later cars were clad
in all-steel bodies and grew in refinement and build quality.
Underneath, a sophisticated 3 liter 4 cam Weber-carbureted V-8
provided the power accompanied by an impressive soundtrack all the
way to 7,700 rpm. Much as the DB5 Aston Martin became associated
with James Bond, the 308 GTS gained fame in its own right starring
with Tom Selleck in the Magnum PI television series. The 308 GTS
was built for only three years with just 3,219 of the most
desirable carbureted examples being produced before being replaced
in 1980 with the 308 GTSi featuring fuel injection which sacrificed
26 horsepower and lost the fantastic burbling sound of the four
Weber carburetors. Today, the V-8 Ferrari market continues to grow
as enthusiasts and collectors recognize the open-topped carbureted
308 GTS as the most desirable and collectible of all Ferrari
V8s.
The Car: The beautifully presented matching numbers carbureted
example offered here is finished in the iconic Ferrari color
combination of Rosso Corsa (racing red) over tan leather. As a GTS,
it features a removable Targa top for the wind-in-your-hair
motoring experience but also includes refinements such as air
conditioning and power windows. This car is in top-performance
specification with its original emissions equipment removed to
allow higher power and cooler engine running temperatures. The
original emissions equipment is included with the sale of the car
should the new owner choose to refit it. Accompanying this car are
the original tool roll, jack kit, and books. With just over 37,000
miles and a recent major service including cam belt replacement,
this 308 GTS is ready to be enjoyed. The V-8 Ferrari market
continues to grow as collectors recognize the excellence and beauty
of the design. This is an outstanding opportunity to secure a
brilliant example of Maranello's last iconic carbureted V-8.
