Ferrari 308 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ferrari 308

Introduced in 1975, the Ferrari 308 marked a significant shift for Maranello by adopting a transverse, mid-engined V8 layout. Designed at Pininfarina by Leonardo Fioravanti, the 308 replaced the acclaimed Dino 246 GT, serving as Ferrari's central model throughout a decade of changing automotive standards. Early cars—approximately 700 to 808 units—featured lightweight glass-fibre (Vetroresina) bodies built by Scaglietti, before the switch to traditional steel panels for both cost and durability. The 308 sold as the GTB coupé and, from 1977, the GTS with its Targa roof. European and US models differed in detail, notably around emissions, lubrication systems, and bumpers. Its ten-year production run would total around 12,000 examples—a major commercial and sporting success, assisted no doubt by high-profile appearances in TV and cinema, especially as Thomas Magnum's car in 'Magnum, P.I.'.

Model Series Development

The 308's roots lie in the Dino 246 and the Dino 308 GT4 2+2, which initially bore the 'Dino' badge before being rebadged to Ferrari for clarity and appeal. The 308 GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) arrived in 1975 as a coupé, followed by the GTS (Gran Turismo Spider) Targa version in 1977. 1980 introduced Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection for emissions compliance with the 308 GTBi and GTSi, sacrificing some output for cleaner operation. In 1982, the Quattrovalvole versions (GTB QV/GTS QV) added four-valve heads, restoring much of the earlier performance. Production ended in 1985, succeeded by the 328 series. Smaller-capacity two-litre Turbo versions existed for tax reasons on the Italian market, but remain rare.

What's Special About the Ferrari 308

Buyers are captivated by the 308's technical innovations: from the featherweight glass-fibre Vetroresina models and characteristic 'gated' shifters to the switch from carburettors to fuel-injection and the high-revving Quattrovalvole V8. Model distinctions abound, including rare original features and extensive exterior colours like Azzurro Metallizzato or Marrone Colorado. Special running gear, signature Veglia-Borletti rally-style instrumentation, detachable Targa roofs and the classic open shift-gate define the 308 ownership experience.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Notable Variants

Two highly sought versions are the glass-fibre (Vetroresina) GTB—limited to around 700–808 units—and the Quattrovalvole models produced from 1982 with four-valve-per-cylinder heads, restoring performance after the injection downgrade. Special Italian-market two-litre versions, including GTB/GTS Turbo variants, offered lower tax with outputs from 153 to 217 hp, making them rare finds. The GT/M prototype was intended for Group B rally, showcasing the breadth of the 308 platform.

Weak Spots and Known Issues

Potential challenges for 308 owners can include corrosion in steel-bodied cars, particularly around sills, wheel arches, and lower sections. Early Vetroresina models avoid this, but may suffer stress cracking. Electrical issues and wear in the gating of the shift mechanism are common with age. Watch for oil leaks from camshaft seals and valve covers, timing belt ageing, aging cooling systems and original rubber bushings. Fuel injection (K-Jetronic) systems and carburettor synching require expert servicing. Check pop-up headlight function and plastic trim integrity.

Engine, Transmission and Driving Experience

The 308's mid-engined V8—2.9 litres, 8,000 rpm redline in carburetted form—offers linear, engaging power. The five-speed 'gated' manual is precise, reinforcing the analogue sports car experience. Double wishbone suspension, disc brakes on all corners, and direct rack-and-pinion steering provide confidence and engaging road manners. Quattrovalvole models (from 1982) bring power back up to 240 hp, top speeds near 255 km/h and lively throttle response. American and European versions can differ in performance due to emissions, lubricating systems and bumpers, with Euro variants typically producing more power. • 308 GTB Vetroresina: Lightweight, early production, top performance. • 308 GTS: Targa roof, most produced variant, open-air experience. • 308 GTB QV / GTS QV: Four-valve heads, most advanced and powerful. • Italian market 2.0 Turbo: Small-capacity, tax-advantaged and rare.

Design, Interior and Options

Styled by Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina, the 308 set new benchmarks with its wedge profile, deep air intakes behind the doors, low stance, and pop-up headlights. Interiors unfolded with leather seats, Veglia-Borletti dials, open-gate shifter, Nardi steering wheel and Targa-top stowage on GTS models. Factory paint offered a broad palette well beyond the famed 'Rosso Corsa,' including metallic blues, silvers and an array of browns and golds. Options included air conditioning, electric windows, upgraded leather upholstery and rare sport exhausts.

Other Noteworthy Features

Period-correct accessories often include a toolkit, jack, compact spare wheel, and even a map-reading lamp in the glovebox. US versions are recognisable by larger bumpers and often more restrained output due to emissions equipment. The 308 remains eligible for historic registration in many markets, with Ferrari Classiche and FIVA certifications adding value. Provenance—such as appearances in high-profile film and TV—further boost some examples' profile.

Summary

The Ferrari 308 endures as a benchmark for classic sports cars: a driver-focused layout, highly tunable V8, distinctive Italian design and broad model variety. From featherweight 'Vetroresina' specials to charismatic Quattrovalvole high-performers, a correctly maintained 308 rewards with dynamic driving and automotive heritage unlike anything else of its era.