1978 Ferrari Dino 208 GT4
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*Inspection report and a very detailed video attached at the bottom of the listing*
Highlights
- 2-litre V8 powertrain
- Iconic H-gate manual transmission
- Unmodified and in factory specification
- Sharp Bertone design
The Appeal
Coming about when Ferrari decided to fit a two-litre V8 in the body of the Dino 308 GT4, the 208 GT4 was primarily designed to exploit the lower taxation for cars of two-litres or less in the Italian market. The result is the same stunning Bertone designed shape, but with a revvy two-litre powertrain.
Over the years, these lovely little GT cars have sadly been under-appreciated, but now collectors and enthusiasts alike are awake to the delights of this delightfully diminutive rear-mid-engined sports car. Values are creeping up and, with good, original examples becoming thinner on the ground, smart ones are much sought after.
Therefore, we are very proud to present this handsomely specified example for sale. Finished in Argento over a blue leather and fabric interior, it’s an attractively styled and neatly detailed machine that’s been very well preserved. We think this makes for a superb classic that’s easy to use regularly and, with that marvellous little V8, should be a dream to hustle along your favourite country road.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in March 1978
- Revisione to April 2025
- Italian registration papers
- Part service history
- Original handbooks in branded leather wallet
- Classic Car Research inspection report from May 2023
The Interior
- Blue half-leather upholstery
- Classic 2+2 four-seater layout
- Period radio system
- Air conditioning
- Electric windows
Upon entering the cabin, there’s certainly no doubting the period this car was created in. With its handsome, two-tone blue upholstery finished in matched leather and fabric, it is very much of its time and all the better for it. Overall the upholstery is in excellent condition, with some light wear and patina in places, and a small tear in the edge of the driver’s side door pocket, but nothing major to note.
Complementing the upholstery are deep blue carpets, which all present in fine condition, with no threading we could see. This is neatly contrasted by the cream headlining, which is ribbed and shows no signs of sagging or damage.
As far as we can tell, the controls and switchgear all appear to be original fitments. Wearing an appealing and warm level of patina and natural wear, they quietly hint at the car’s age and history while remaining very presentable and usable. The centre badge for the steering wheel is a Ferrari item, but a ‘Dino’ branded item also comes with the car. The only thing to note in regard to the internal trim is that the rear-view mirror glass is cracked, otherwise everything appears to be in fine fettle.
At the back, behind the engine cover, there is a handy boot space. It’s trimmed in blue-grey carpet and offers a nice amount of space for some overnight or weekend bags. Under the bonnet at the front, meanwhile, there’s a spacesaver spare wheel and a tool roll, as well as access to the battery and radiator.
The Exterior
- Argento (metallic silver) paintwork
- Original magnesium alloy wheels
- Pop-up headlights, working as they should
- Rear Ferrari badge (alternate Dino 208 GT4 badge included too)
You don’t often see a silver Ferrari, yet it’s a colour that really suits the 208, especially when contrasted against the blue interior. We think it really highlights the space-age, almost sci-fi, wedge-like design and crisp lines. Overall the paintwork presents pretty well, with a few minor chips and blemishes, but nothing that would overly concern us. There’s a more notable scuff to the passenger side rear corner, but this looks as if it would be relatively simple to address.
The bodywork itself all looks very neat and straight, with no corrosion or damage to note, crisp lines and consistent shut lines. All of the trim similarly looks to be in good order, with the glass elements and light lenses also appearing to be clear and free from cracks and chips. It’s a very pretty little machine and it’s nice to see it presented so well.
The underside looks straight and clean, with no signs of problematic corrosion. The drivetrain components appear to be neat and well cared for, while the floors and sills look even and undamaged with a layer of underseal covering them.
It’s alway nice to see a car on the factory-fitted wheels, especially when they’re pretty 14-inch magnesium alloys like they are here. Finished in silver to complement the bodywork, they show well with no damage we could discern and are shod in a matched set of Fulda tyres that appear to be hardly used.
The Mechanics
- 1,990cc naturally aspirated V8
- Rear-mid-engined layout
- Five-speed manual transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
That transverse mounted small capacity V8 is a peach of an engine. It sounds wonderful and has a revvy, responsive nature. Mated to the classic Ferrari H-gate manual transmission, we imagine it’s a delight to drive each and every time.
The car is reported to start, run and drive very well indeed, pulling strongly and engaging gear positively. No smoke, knocks or leaks are declared and the report indicates the car to be in fine mechanical condition.
Summary
There cannot be many better things to put in your garage than a classic, V8-powered Ferrari. Sonorous, pretty and beautifully presented in a very fine specification, we think this charming little 208 is a real gem.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1978
- Make Ferrari
- Model 208 GT4
- Colour Silver
- Odometer 35,287 Kilometres
- Engine size 1990
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Mantova
- Country Italy
20
bids
- ta•••• €45,000 01/06/23
- m-•••• €45,000 30/05/23
- ph•••• €44,250 28/05/23
- st•••• €44,000 28/05/23
- ta•••• €42,500 28/05/23
- li•••• €42,000 28/05/23
- ta•••• €41,000 28/05/23
- iu•••• €40,000 28/05/23
- Iv•••• €39,000 27/05/23
- im•••• €38,000 27/05/23
The Gallery
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