Highlights
- Matching numbers
- Desirable dry sump
- Early steel-bodied example
- Weber Carburettors
- Belgian registered
The Appeal
Created as a successor to Ferrari’s Dino, the 308GTB arrived in 1975 sporting a 2927cc V8 which, for European specification cars, had dry sump lubrication and four twin Weber 40DCNF carburettors. At 252bhp, this was to prove the most powerful engine installed in the 308 during its eight year production run as later modifications only served to reduce the output. Initially produced with a glass reinforced plastic body, Ferrari switched to a steel body in June 1977 and, this being a July 1977 build, it is a very early example with a steel body and is one of only 2897 made.
This matching numbers car was the subject of a ground up restoration in the nineties and has been comprehensively maintained ever since, as the extensive records will attest. For keen drivers, the carbureted engine is widely regarded as the purest choice and, when mated to the excellent condition of this 308, it makes for a very desirable and sought after car which will appeal to Ferrari enthusiasts the world over.
The History and Paperwork
- Acquired by the sales manager of a Ferrari dealership in the early nineties who commissioned a ground up restoration
- Restoration carried out by a Ferrari specialist with paintwork also by a Ferrari-only paint shop
- Full photographic record of the restoration process
- Owned by the sales manager for 24 years and 2 owners since
- Last owner acquired for €128,000 in 2017 and had it valued at €140,000 a year later
- Rich history in the field of touring, having participated in events such as Italia a Zandvoort and Grand Tour Internazionale Di Sicilia Targa Florio
- Maintained by Ferrari specialist Italauto and Ferrari dealer Munsterhuis
- Invoices totalling over €22,000 for maintenance
- Registered in Belgium
The Interior
- Retrimmed ‘Nero’ black leather
- Open gated gear shift
- Great condition
The feel good factor involved in being able to walk up to your own Ferrari, swing open the door and climb aboard is not to be underestimated. Even better is when you can clamber in and be greeted with a cabin which features beautiful design details such as the open gated gearbox, the switches and sliders on the centre console and a gorgeous three spoke steering wheel with the iconic prancing horse logo in its centre.
Here it’s all in lovely condition too with the seats showing little to no wear, inky black carpets which still look fresh and a dashboard with yellow stitched leather trimming that houses an attractive set of Veglia dials labelled in Italian. All of the dials, switches and buttons work as intended, while up above, the headlining is clean and taut with no signs of sag.
Stowage space at the front is reserved for the full-sized spare wheel while at the rear there is a nicely trimmed cubby hole with a zipped cover just behind the engine bay.
The Exterior
- Finished in 'Rosso Corsa' FER 300 red
- Paintwork described as ‘excellent’
- 14” Cromodora 7.5j wheels
Designed by Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina, who was also responsible for the Daytona, Berlinetta Boxer and the Dino 206/246, the 308 is instantly recognisable and something of a design classic and here is finished in signature Ferrari red. Although an older restoration, the paintwork reportedly remains in excellent condition, with all of the lights, badges and trims also showing few signs of age.
The 14 inch wheels may be small by today’s standards but they have the advantage of wearing tyres with sufficient sidewall to protect them from kerbing damage of which there is none here. All of the wheels are pristine and wear a matching set of tyres which were replaced last year.
The underside is also very clean and tidy with only light surface corrosion to a few components and no signs of damage or misuse. Overall, it’s surely amongst the best that have seen anything close to regular use.
The Mechanics
- Pristine engine bay houses 2.9L V8
- Weber carburettors
- Five speed, dog-leg manual gearbox
- Limited slip differential
During the eight year production run, the engine of the 308 went through numerous changes, largely dictated by evolving emissions legislation across the markets in which it was sold. The net result was that the first version of the 2.9 litre V8 in its European specification with dry sump lubrication and Weber carbs was the most powerful and also the most exciting to drive.
Having been extensively maintained, this example is in rude health and starts first time, every time. There are no leaks or smoke and the vendor informs us that the performance is strong, allied to a glorious soundtrack. The brakes are reportedly very effective and handling just as it should be. In short, this 308 is ready to be used for the purpose for which it was intended: to be driven.
Summary
A beautiful, matching numbers, example of the iconic 308 in a very desirable specification which is ready to go.
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