1985 | Ferrari 308 GTSi Quattrovalvole

Highlights:

• Regularly driven
• well-maintained

Brand & Model History:

Introduced in 1975, the Ferrari 308 GTB had the challenging task of succeeding the popular Dino 246 GT and supplementing the 2+2 Dino 308 GT4 as a more affordable option in Ferrari's lineup. Rather than designing a completely new car, Ferrari engineers adapted the steel tubular chassis of the Dino 308 GT4, shortening it slightly to allow for the two-seater configuration. The new body was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina.

In a somewhat controversial move, the body of the Ferrari 308 GTB was initially made of fiberglass to save weight. However, by the mid-1970s, Ferrari switched to a steel body, which, although heavier, satisfied traditionalists. The car was equipped with various versions of the V8 engine originally used in the 308 GT4—a 2.9-liter DOHC engine (2927 cc) with two valves per cylinder, which was upgraded to four valves in 1982 with the introduction of the Quattrovalvole.

The engine was transversely mounted behind the driver and passenger and delivered power to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. To comply with Italian tax regulations, Ferrari developed a 2.0-liter version, initially naturally aspirated and later turbocharged in 1982, which increased power from 153 hp to 217 hp.

The Ferrari 308 GTB and its sibling, the Ferrari 308 GTS (with Targa roof), were successful both in sales and popular culture. The Ferrari 308 GTS was famously driven by Thomas Magnum (Tom Selleck) in the TV series "Magnum, P.I.," which aired for eight seasons from 1980 to 1988. The 308 GTS also appeared in the 1981 film "The Cannonball Run," driven by the characters Jamie Blake (Dean Martin) and Morris Fenderbaum (Sammy Davis Jr.), and in the 1983 movie "National Lampoon's Vacation," where Christie Brinkley's character drove a 308 GTSi alongside Chevy Chase.

Ferrari produced the 308 GTB/GTS from 1975 to 1985, when it was replaced by the closely related Ferrari 328 GTB and GTS, also designed by Leonardo Fioravanti.

In the early 1980s, tightening emissions regulations worldwide led to the introduction of fuel-injected models, known as the Ferrari 308 GTSi, with “i” for iniezione (injection). Visually, the model was almost identical to its predecessor, with only slight changes to the five-spoke wheels to accommodate the new Michelin TRX tires with metric dimensions. The Michelin XWX tires with imperial measurements on 14-inch wheels and the Pirelli P7 tires on 16-inch wheels remained available as options. Like the 308 GTS Targa-roof model, the 308 GTSi allowed the removed roof to be stored behind the seats, and the rear side windows were fitted with black panels.

The interior of the car also bore a strong resemblance to the 308 GTS, with the most significant difference being the leather sports seats featuring a new stitching pattern, while the classic instrument panel remained within the driver's line of sight. The clock and oil temperature gauge were now centrally located on the console for better visibility. The steering wheel design was slightly altered, featuring matte black spokes with longitudinal peaks.

The transverse-mounted V8 mid-engine was essentially based on the engine design of the previous model, the 308 GTS. However, instead of four twin carburetors, a fuel injection system was now used. The engine had a 90-degree angle and featured belt-driven, double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. The total displacement was 2,926 cc, with a bore and stroke of 81 and 71 mm, respectively, and carried the factory designation F 106 BS 000.

History & Condition:

This Ferrari 308 GTSi was first registered in the USA in 1985. Little is known about its US history, but it is likely that the car originally left the factory in Maranello in the color Verde Pinto before being repainted black later in its life. The car is in good overall condition and has been regularly used for trips from Berlin to Zurich. It is registered in Switzerland and comes with the Swiss veteran pass. This car is the perfect entry-level Ferrari for everyday use.

Market Overview & Prices:

The Ferrari 308 has achieved collector status. The earlier GTB models with fiberglass bodies (Vetroresina) are particularly sought after due to their rarity and lightweight construction, fetching prices of up to €200,000 in immaculate condition. Later models with steel bodies are generally more affordable and easier to find, making them popular entry-level models. The 308 is considered a good investment, especially well-maintained models with original equipment.

Summary:

The Ferrari 308 is a great entry model into the Ferrari market. Its distinctive design and relatively simple mechanics make it a fun driving machine. Well-maintained used cars that are regularly driven are hard to find. This 308 GTSi represents the final evolution of the model, making it the most technically refined.