1978 | Ferrari 308 GTB

When Ferrari was considering the design for the successor of the successful Dino 246GT, once again they requested Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina to propose a design. He created a timeless and beautiful design, containing many of the classic Ferrari details from the beginning of the 60s. The chassis and body production was entrusted to the skilled people at Scaglietti. At the introduction in 1975 all bodies were made in fiberglass (Vetroresina). This material, however, proved unable to cope with the twisting forces under tough driving, and from 1977 all bodies were produced using traditional steel. The engine was a newly developed, transversally mounted 3 liter V8, inspired by the well proved Dino engine. The capacity of this engine could not be increased sufficiently and the solution was to add 2 more cylinders. This engine is a masterpiece itself and a tour de force in technical solutions, which only Italian engine builders are able to create. With 4 overhead camshafts beltdriven, 4 double Weber Carburetors, dry sump lubrication, oversquare pistons and fully made in aluminum, the engine – not surprisingly – turned out to be a delicious and sonorous sounding one in the best Ferrari tradition. Early European versions produced a full 255 bhp. Further development got lost of the dry sump lubrication, which was replaced by a more conventional wet sump solution.

The 308 GTB/GTS proved to be a huge success for Ferrari who produced it all the way up to 1985. Today the early models with the simple body and full engine effect are regarded as the most beloved by enthusiasts.

This specific example is exactly such a car – an early European steel version with the carburetors and dry sump lubrication. And it is in an extraordinary correct and original condition as well. Delivered new in Switzerland June 1978 and with a total of 10 service stamps until 1998 at 39,766 km. In 2021 the car was imported to Denmark and in 2022 at 47,491km a major service, including a change of timing belts was carried out. As of today, the mileage is a modest 48,373 km. Apart from a scratch repair, the car is still in original paint and the cabin still has the original leather seats in perfect condition. All in all, the car presents beautifully original and well kept in a way that is rarely seen.

It’s always something quite extraordinary to get behind the steeringwheel of a classic Ferrari. You sit low – and comfortable – in the beautiful leather seat with a view to the classic open shift gate and the nice Veglia dials. The car drives excellent with a nice and direct steering, and a good balance accompanied by a wonderful sound from the intake of the carburetors.

With the car comes all of the original equipment, including the full set of tools (which in itself cost a fortune today) and original spare wheel. Even the extra handlamp in the glovebox is present. Not only is it a great car to own and drive, in our view it’s also a good investment, as prices for original, European examples are on the rise.