1980 Ferrari 308 GT4

Introduced at the 1973 Paris Motor Show, the Dino 308 GT4 was a significant departure for Ferrari in several ways. It was the first production car from Modena to feature a mid-engined V8, a layout that would become common to their core range for decades to come, along with the first production model to feature Bertone styling rather than Pininfarina bodywork. The chassis was based on the Dino 246 but was stretched to make space for a 2+2 configuration and the 255bhp, 3-litre V8 was integrally joined with the gearbox and featured an alloy block and heads with dual overhead camshafts fed through four Weber 40 DCNF carburettors.
The styling was controversial at the time, with some journalists comparing it to the Bertone-designed Lancia Stratos and Lamborghini Urraco, and the proportions gave traditionalists an attack of the vapours but, as is often the way, Bertone's styling effort probably looks better now than it ever has. For all this, the car was a huge success, being bigger and more usable than any other mid-engine car had managed or would manage for a while. More than 3, 600 were sold, dwarfing sales of V12 models and showing Ferrari the way forward. Today, these 1970s Ferraris have come of age with their classic looks and brilliant handling, and are as fast as you are ever going to need in the real world, with a top speed of over 150mph and a 0-60mph acceleration time of 6. 4 seconds.
This Dino GT4 is finished in Rosso Corsa (original colour Marrone 6332007) with a tobacco leather interior with dark brown inserts. interior and sits on a set of smart Cromodora 5-Star alloys. It's covered just 47, 600 miles from new. With circa 20, 000 miles showing and another 27, 535 on the original speedo which was changed in 1990. This is documented in the cars extensive history file. It remains in lovely condition and is a splendid example of the model.
The 308 GT4 had been a bit of an underdog for many years but, as a drivers' car, it's superb in every way. Recent results have witnessed a lift in values as the collectors' car world wakes up to the potential of these great little Ferraris.
Factory completion date 2nd January 1980 makes this one of the last GT4's to leave Maranello.
Delivered new to a Mr Holbrook. Through Colonel Ronnies Hoare's English Ferrari importership Maranello Concessionaires LTD.

This car does display some signs of its 43 years but everything works as it should and has never failed to start or drive beautifully in the three and a half years I have owned the car.
Some minor rust is apparent on lower door skins and rear of sills but doesn’t detract from the appearance of the car and is not a mot issue due to proximity to chassis and suspension.
Passed MOT on 30th May 2023 with no advisories.