The Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS buying guide

We’ll save you the usual anecdotes about Magnum and get straight to the point – this Ferrari 308 guide is all about the essentials, not its moustached, Hawaiian shirt wearing owner.

The Ferrari 308 is the successor to the Ferrari Dino 246 that was manufactured from 1969 to 1974. The first two digits of the 308 nameplate refer to the cubic capacity, and the third digit to the number of cylinders. The Ferrari 308 was accordingly equipped with a 3.0-litre V8 engine, with the abbreviation GT standing for Gran Turismo, and B for Berlinetta. The Targa version of the 308 is known as the GTS – the S representing Spider.

ferrari 308 History

The first examples of the Ferrari 308 GTB featured a GRP (glass-reinforced plastic, or glassfibre) body, with later cars switching to conventional steel due to production time constraints. Nobody knows exactly how many GRP (“vetroresina” in Italian) examples exist, but best estimates are around 400 to 800 pieces. At the same time as changing the body, the open GTS with Targa roof was also introduced.

When designing the Ferrari 308, the Italian firm looked back at the Dino 246 GT and reproduced its driving position. 308 GTBs built until 1980 had an engine with dry sump lubrication and carburettor combination. However, the 308 GTS and later Berlinettas had an injection system and a wet sump. With a top speed of 140mph, the Ferrari 308 was faster than its predecessor in terms of top speed and also acceleration.

From 1975 to 1981, a total of 2897 examples of the 308 GTB, and 3219 GTS models, rolled off the assembly line. This was followed by the 308 GTBi / GTSi models, which were delivered with an injection system due to the stricter emissions regulations in the USA. Based on the 308, the Ferrari 328 was introduced in 1985. It was equipped with a more powerful 3.2-litre V8.

ferrari 308 Body and Interior

If the car has avoided the winter months, you hardly have to worry about rust problems. Sure, wheelarches, tubular frames and sills should still be inspected, but shouldn’t cause too much of an issue. Since the water drainage holes on the doors were not positioned well, rust often forms here. Other known places for rust include the bottom of the buttresses and the boot floor.

Inspect the Ferrari for damage caused by an accident and check that its pop-up headlights function correctly. Take note of how well the doors shut and whether the gaps are uniform. This is a good way to identify badly repaired accident damage.

There’s little in the way of frills inside the Ferrari 308 as equipment is sparse. Be prepared for a shock when you look under the dashboard: the wiring was wild from the factory. Check the condition of the leather seats – do they have a pleasant patina or are they simply worn out? Do the carpets come loose or wrinkle? What is the condition of the door cards? Also, the somewhat strange-looking control lights on the right and left of the steering column are a predecessor of the OBD engine diagnostic lights. These will light up when the car is due for a visit to the workshop.

ferrari 308 V8 engine and Mechanicals

Since every repair on the Ferrari 308 tends to be costly, some owners avoid replacing the rollers when changing the timing belt. Don’t do this! You really shouldn’t risk engine damage that will ultimately cost more than changing the timing belt.

When examining the vehicle, you should take a closer look at the exhaust system as the cost of spares is high. If the original system can no longer be saved, you should consider installing a stainless steel exhaust system.

The transmissions of the Ferrari 308 are considered to be quite reliable, but you might want to put some money aside for the inevitable clutch change. Original spare parts for shock absorbers, disc brakes and bushings are no longer available, here you have to rely on components from third-party suppliers. These newer parts may even perform better than the originals.

the ferrari 308 Market

Although the 308 GTBi / GTSi was very popular in period, the sales figures spoke for themselves with these models less hankered for today than their predecessors. Earlier 308s have proven more sought-after because of their four double carburettors, the higher performance and a better engine note. The GRP versions are particularly collectable today, both because of their rarity and lighter construction.

The 308 is often depicted as an “entry-level Ferrari”, but interested parties should be aware that even the smallest repairs will hit your wallet hard. Spare parts and repairs have typical Ferrari prices and should definitely be factored into the ultimate purchase price. Maintenance work on the engine should only be carried out by specialists. Keep away from modified vehicles, even if the purchase price seems appealing at first glance.

The injection cars are a little easier to maintain than those with carburettors, however, because of the lower power, they are also less popular. Patience pays off with these machines – do not rush, take your time and above all consider the follow-up and maintenance costs of this Ferrari.

Text Jan Fröhlich  Fotos Classic Trader

Author: Classic Trader

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