Description
If the Romans do things their way, this 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB proves it: delivered new to Motor s. p. a. in Rome, in black over beige, this 1977 dry-sump 308 GTB unquestionably stands out from the many Rosso Corsa 308s produced in the 1970s and 1980s.
The Ferrari 308 GTB was launched in 1975 to succeed the Dino 246 GT and marked a significant evolution in the lineage of mid‑engine V8s. Initially produced with a glass‑fibre “vetroresina” body, the 308 GTB was the first mass‑produced Ferrari to use this lightweight material. By mid‑1977 Ferrari switched to steel body panels, but the dry-sump lubrication system remained a hallmark of European cars, improving performance and reliability during sporty driving.
Under the bonnet, the 308 GTB housed a transverse 2. 9‑litre V8 (2, 927 cm³), paired with four Weber 40DCNF carburettors, delivering 255 horsepower at 7, 700 rpm. The dry-sump lubrication, a configuration borrowed from Ferrari’s racing experience, prevented oil starvation in high‑speed cornering and allowed a lower mounting position for the engine, thereby improving the car’s centre of gravity.
Performance was impressive for the era: the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/ h in under 6. 5 seconds, with a top speed of around 250 km/ h. Coupled with a five‑speed manual gearbox and a taut chassis, the 308 GTB offers a visceral and engaging driving experience.
This 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB wears its original colour, black over beige leather, a very elegant combination that sets it apart. A Ferrari Classiche certificate confirms the delivery date of September 1977 and the original Nero (black) and beige leather colour. It was delivered to Motor s. p. a. in Rome. The 308 GTB was supplied with air conditioning as an option (it is not currently installed but is included with the car).
Its provenance is unknown, but the Ferrari ultimately found refuge in California, where it had a single owner before returning to Europe in 2008. A plethora of invoices for works and servicing carried out in the 2000s and 2010s accompany the car. The most recent work includes a full oil change, an oil service, and maintenance in autumn 2024. Today, the 308 GTB has just over 50, 000 km on the clock, of which about 14, 000 have been since 2008.
The Ferrari 308 GTB is in generally good condition, intact and well maintained, with a light patina as you would expect from a nearly fifty‑year‑old non‑restored car. Today, the dry‑sump 308 GTB is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its purity, mechanical responsiveness, and link to Ferrari’s sporting heritage, and this 308 GTB is no exception. It fires up at the turn of the key and offers precise and decisive handling, instant speed, and, above all, engine note worthy of the marque.
The Ferrari 308 GTB is currently registered on Danish (EU) documents and has older German and American registration documents.
