1980 | Ferrari 308 GTS

The Story of the Ferrari 308 GTS

When the Ferrari 308 GTS was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1977, it was clear: this wasn't just another sports car—it was a future classic taking the stage. The 308 GTS combined traditional Ferrari virtues with the spirit of the late 1970s. The timelessly elegant design was the work of none other than Leonardo Fioravanti, who, as chief designer at Pininfarina, was already responsible for legends like the Dino 246 GT and the Daytona (365 GTB/4). The 308 GTS's lines are balanced, sporty, and luxurious, featuring the characteristic wedge shape and distinctive air intakes behind the doors. The Targa version, with its removable roof segment, added a touch of freedom to the car—without the structural weaknesses of a convertible.

Under the flat front hood worked a transversely mounted 2.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine with four overhead camshafts. In the first version (up to 1980), the engine was supplied with fuel via four Weber carburetors and produced around 255 hp. Power was transmitted to the rear axle through a crisp 5-speed manual transmission—pure driving pleasure was guaranteed.

Between 1977 and 1980, exactly 3,219 units of the carbureted version of the 308 GTS rolled off the production line, approximately half of which were exported to the American market. The Ferrari was produced at the Scaglietti plant in Modena, which had already manufactured numerous Ferrari bodies.

The big breakthrough in pop culture came with the U.S. series "Magnum, P.I.," in which Tom Selleck, aka Thomas Magnum, drove the 308 GTS through the sunny streets of Hawaii. This image—sporty, charming, a bit rebellious—still clings to the car today, making it a sought-after collector's item.

History of the Ferrari 308 GTS - SSC641

The Ferrari 308 GTS offered here has a clear and traceable history. First owner: Pasticceria Palladio in Brescia (Italy), license plate BS709715. Sold on June 9, 2000, to Renato B. in Mantova (Italy). Third owner on June 13, 2002: Amalio R. in Ravenna (Italy). On April 30, 2013, sold to Scuderia Sportiva Colonia and exported to Germany. After a major engine and chassis inspection, sold to a new owner and classic car collector in Bavaria. The last owner has now commissioned Scuderia Sportiva Colonia once again to find a new loving home for this exceptional and well-maintained classic.

This Ferrari 308 GTS impresses with its originality. It is still in very good condition. Chassis, brakes, engine, and transmission perform flawlessly. Our initial diagnosis showed no maintenance backlog. The cavity preservation was recently renewed. The underbody is flawless; the Ferrari has only been driven in Germany in proven good weather. The leather interior is original and free of cracks and breaks. Careful maintenance is evident here as well. The paintwork is good; the demanding black paint shines, with few microscopic stone chips on the front.

A beautifully maintained European "matching" Ferrari 308 GTS awaits its new owner. Currently, this vehicle has German registration documents, including proof as a classic car. Copies of the Italian vehicle papers are also available.

Conclusion

The Ferrari 308 GTS is more than a nostalgic look into the past—it is a drivable work of art that perfectly combines design, technology, and emotion. With its clear design language, characterful V8, and unmistakable presence, it stands like few other models for the golden age of classic Ferrari road sports cars. Anyone who owns a 308 GTS today possesses not just a sports car but a piece of automotive history.

** **

Note:

We are selling this Ferrari 308 GTS on behalf of the owner (brokerage). This offer is non-binding, and prior sale is reserved. We assist with registration in Germany. If necessary, we are happy to provide a new appraisal. In Europe, transport is in a closed trailer; additionally, we arrange container shipping for the rest of the world.

This classic offered here is located at our manufactory in 57548 Kirchen/Sieg, Jungenthaler Str. 1a. Here you will find—BY APPOINTMENT ONLY—a selection of constantly 80 historically valuable sports vehicles. For information about our service offerings and vehicle selection, please visit www.scuderia-sportiva-colonia.com.

If you like everything you've read and seen so far and want to view the car, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT! Spontaneous visitors are always welcome, but without a guarantee of a detailed viewing opportunity for individual vehicles. The office is not permanently staffed.