Ferrari 288 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ferrari 288 GTO

Ferrari launched the 288 GTO in 1984 as a response to the FIA’s Group B homologation regulations, seeking to develop a world-class sports car fit for both high-speed road use and competition. 'GTO'—Gran Turismo Omologato—revived a name not used by the marque since the 250 GTO of the early 1960s, instantly signalling ambition and pedigree. Developed for homologation with an initial plan for 200 units, the 288 GTO ultimately saw 272 cars leave Maranello’s gates, making it an extremely limited edition. Despite the racing category's cancellation, the GTO set new road standards with technology derived directly from Ferrari’s F1 efforts: lightweight composites, turbocharging, and chassis engineering. Notably, 5 special Evolution models were produced exclusively for racing. Production ended in 1986, with the final example built for ex-Formula 1 World Champion Niki Lauda. Some vehicles suffered fire damage due to fuel line weaknesses—believed to have affected around 70 of the original cars—all of which were subsequently restored.

Model History of the Ferrari 288 Series

The 288 GTO sits at the very start of Ferrari's hypercar lineage, being the earliest member of the so-called 'Big Five' that later included the F40, F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari. Its predecessor, the 308 GTB, contributed the basic silhouette and architecture but couldn't match the GTO’s prowess or technology. The 288 GTO introduced innovations like a longitudinally-mounted V8 in a road Ferrari—a first for the brand. There was no direct successor in the 288 series, but the F40, launched in 1987, carried forward its turbocharged philosophy and motorsport-inspired purity.

Highlights of the Ferrari 288 GTO

• Developed for FIA Group B homologation, with 272 road cars and 5 GTO Evoluzione race cars
• 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged aluminium V8 (Tipo F114B), longitudinally mounted
• 400 bhp, 0–96 km/h in 4.8–4.9 sec, top speed 304 km/h (at launch, world’s fastest road car)
• Lightweight construction: composite body (mainly fibreglass, Kevlar & carbon fibre roof/bonnet)
• Distinctive design with wide wheel arches, three rear wing vents (tribute to 250 GTO), wind-tunnel developed spoilers
• All models left-hand drive, all delivered in Rosso Corsa
• Focused cockpit with Veglia instruments, large 10,000 rpm tachometer, boost gauge, partial leather trim as standard, full leather optional

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 288 GTO itself is an extremely limited edition, with just 272 units built for the road. More exclusive are the five GTO Evoluzione versions, constructed as pure racing machines with even more advanced performance and even less compromise for comfort. The Evoluzione directly influenced later Ferrari supercars like the F40, making them highly prized among collectors for their relevance to Ferrari's motorsport evolution.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

A significant weakness of the Ferrari 288 GTO lies in the durability of its fuel lines, which were susceptible to failure due to high pressure and temperature. This led to increased fire risk, and historic reports estimate around 70 of the 272 production cars experienced fires - all were subsequently restored. Astute buyers should pay special attention to the maintenance and replacement history of these components. As with all high-performance, limited-production Ferraris, meticulous care and correct servicing by specialists are essential.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

At the car’s heart is a twin-turbocharged, longitudinally mounted 2.9-litre V8, channelling 400 horsepower to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The 288 GTO could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds, hitting a top speed of over 300 km/h, which outpaced competitors like the Porsche 911 Turbo and Lamborghini Countach at the time. The tubular frame, wide stance, and elaborate suspension provided sharp handling and confidence on both track and road. Massive, ventilated disc brakes supplied stopping power suited to the car’s velocity. The emphasis was always on driver engagement and performance over pure luxury. The sole model listed is the Ferrari 288 GTO, as all supply and demand data indicate full focus on this edition within the 288 series.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Pininfarina styled the 288 GTO with a purposeful, aerodynamic silhouette that traces its lineage to the 308 GTB, distinguished by flared arches, long nose, and three signature rear vents reminiscent of the 250 GTO. The use of composite materials—glass fibre, Kevlar, and carbon fibre on the roof and bonnet—not only reduced weight but also previewed future supercar construction. All cars came finished in Rosso Corsa with left-hand drive. The cockpit, inspired by the Daytona, features orange-fabric/leather seats as standard (full leather optional), a large tachometer, and a distinctive Momo steering wheel. Alcantara/velour was used on the anti-glare dashboard. While not overburdened with luxury, optional extras included a comfort pack with air conditioning, electric windows, and a radio-cassette. Fog lamps were also available upon request.

Other Relevant Features

Every 288 GTO was equipped with Veglia instrumentation, a signature of 1980s Ferraris. Only left-hand drive versions were produced, and all were built in Maranello. Ferrari Classiche (Red Book) certification is available upon verification, providing added verification for originality and provenance. The model made its public debut at the 1984 Geneva Motor Show.

Summary

The Ferrari 288 GTO stands as a pivotal machine in Maranello’s history, combining Group B rally ambitions, rare materials, and technical advancements to create a high-performance road and competition car that would inspire all future Ferrari hypercars. With only 272 road cars built, fascination for the 288 GTO endures—supported by all current market statistics showing total supply and demand focus on this single, collector-grade edition.