Sbarro Super Eight classic cars for sale

History of the Sbarro Super Eight

The Sbarro Super Eight emerged in the early 1980s, a product of Franco Sbarro’s inventive car-building ethos. Sbarro, renowned for handcrafted, low-volume vehicles, based the Super Eight on the Ferrari 308 GTB platform, using its V8 engine and much of its mechanical hardware. However, Sbarro reinterpreted the design from scratch with an angular, avant-garde wedge shape and unique glasshouse, giving the Super Eight a distinctive presence. The car was never mass-produced; each example was crafted individually, which makes every Super Eight different in its own way. The Super Eight's design and approach are direct results of Sbarro's penchant for experimentation and passion for automotive engineering art forms.

Model History

The Super Eight marks one of Sbarro’s best-known Ferrari-based conversions, launched around 1984. Unlike factory Ferrari models, the Super Eight did not serve as a direct successor or precursor to any other model; it remained an isolated project reflecting Sbarro’s flair for supercar reinterpretations. Its roots lie in the Ferrari 308 GTB, but the transformation—inside and out—set it apart from both Ferrari’s own iterations and other coachbuilt Ferraris of the period. Very few Super Eights are believed to exist, each representing Sbarro’s bespoke approach, with later Sbarro projects continuing the tradition of radical, hand-built sports and concept cars.

Highlights of the Sbarro Super Eight

The Super Eight stands out for its striking, angular bodywork fashioned predominantly from lightweight composite materials. Its Ferrari V8 engine, mid-mounted for ideal weight distribution, delivers authentic Italian performance. The interior features custom gauges and switchgear, usually tailored to owner preferences, and no two cars are perfectly alike. Given that Sbarro built extremely low numbers—possibly fewer than a handful—this is among the rarest Ferrari-based creations of the era.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Super Eight, by its very nature, is a special edition. With total production numbers likely in the single digits, every car counts as a unique piece, often featuring individualised interior and exterior details to suit the original customer’s wishes. No factory-made variants or spin-offs are known; every Super Eight is essentially a one-of-one.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the very limited production, sourcing replacement body panels and specific trim elements unique to the Super Eight can be extremely challenging. Mechanical components based on the Ferrari 308 platform are generally more accessible, but bespoke Sbarro elements—like custom electrical systems or interior fittings—may require specialist attention. Attention should also be paid to the condition of the composite bodywork and its fit to the chassis.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Super Eight harnesses the Ferrari 308’s 2.9-litre, naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing strong power delivery typical of period Italian eight-cylinders. The mid-engine layout ensures balanced handling; however, the car’s custom chassis and lighter construction may lead to a more direct, involving driving experience compared to the base Ferrari. Gear changes are handled by a five-speed manual gearbox. Due to low build numbers, driving feedback can vary between examples depending on bespoke setup, but expect sharp steering, brisk acceleration, and a soundtrack unmistakably Ferrari-derived. Given that all existing Super Eight examples are one-of-a-kind, each car stands out as a highlight model within the Sbarro brand. Technical specifications align closely with those of the Ferrari 308 GTB, but with Sbarro’s signature twist in body and chassis design.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The design of the Super Eight defies convention: sharp-edged, low-slung bodywork departs radically from the curves of the donor Ferrari. The large glass area, distinctive wedge profile, and custom front and rear treatments make the car immediately recognisable. Inside, Sbarro fitted the Super Eight with bespoke dashboards, tailored upholstery, and unique finishing details; materials and colours were often customised, and accessories could vary greatly from car to car. Equipment levels reflected both owner preferences and the experimental mindset of Sbarro himself—each vehicle is a snapshot of 1980s individuality, making use of pioneering composites and hand-crafted elements.

Other noteworthy features

Due to its hand-built nature, many Super Eights incorporate made-to-order features at the request of the original buyers, including personalised badging or unique control layouts. Documentation and provenance are especially relevant for these cars, as factory build records can be scarce.

Summary

The Sbarro Super Eight occupies a singular space in the realm of rare, 1980s coachbuilt Italian sports cars. With its bespoke design, Ferrari genes, hand-crafted execution, and extremely limited numbers, it encapsulates Sbarro’s pursuit of automotive individualism. Each Super Eight is an artefact of technical curiosity and personalised performance, making it a fascinating focus for any collector intrigued by unconventional supercars.