Sold 1978 Ferrari 308 GTB 2146355205 Tweet

Ferraris first attempt at replacing the sublime V6 powered Dino 246 came with the Bertone-bodied 308 GT4 2+2; a fine car which failed to enthuse buyers in the same way as the original. The V8-powered Dino GT4 was certainly a competent road car but the angular Bertone styling drew criticism as it was considered too radical a departure from the svelte and curvaceous 246 GT. Ferrari went back to the drawing board and Leonardo Fiavoranti designed the 308 GTB which despite having grown in size and capacity was more in line with the original Dino thanks in part to the two-seat configuration and beautiful Pininfarina coachwork. Now officially a full-fledged Ferrari model the new 308 GTB/GTS featured the GT4s 3.0 liter four-cam V8 with four downdraught Weber carburetors and a 5-speed transaxle though it was seen as all-around better sorted and more stylish. The 308 GTB and its targa-topped sibling the GTS would become a runaway success for Ferrari as well as a pop-culture icon selling more than 12000 examples over a 10 year production span Ferraris most successful model to date by a massive margin.This 1978 308 GTB is a rare and desirable carbureted Berlinetta that has been very well maintained via well-known West Coast specialists coming most recently from large collection of European sports cars. This example features a host of subtle upgrades that improve the driving experience without sacrificing the purity and balance of the original design. The most obvious modification is the set of 17-inch split-rim 5-spoke Speedline alloy wheels reminiscent of those used on the iconic F40 and 288 GTO. Those wheels which are necessary to clear the four-wheel Big Red Brembo brake calipers and cross drilled discs borrowed from a 360 Modena are fitted with low-profile tires which tuck nicely under the stock arches. In addition to the extra grip provided by the larger rubber fatter sway bars and adjustable coil-over dampers have been fitted front and rear to improve stability and allow this 308 to corner flat and with confidence. The 308 is set up to sit just slightly lower than stock and thanks to the high-quality suspension components handling and road manners are now razor sharp.Receipts show the 3.0 liter quad-cam V8 engine has been serviced by marque experts with the timing belts last changed in 2013 and the air conditioning system fully rebuilt in 2012 among other service-related items. It has covered just a handful of miles since the work was performed and it remains a truly outstanding driver. The Tipo F106A V8 is smooth and punchy through the rev range giving off a truly addictive exhaust note. The 5-speed gearbox feels notably slick and positive selecting 2nd gear with ease even when cold. Powerful F360 brakes are more than up to the task of arresting the lightweight 308 and remarkably the suspension upgrades hone the handling without being rough or jarring to the occupants.Finished in classic Rosso Corsa over tan hides this 308 GTB is a fine looking car with strong cosmetics inside and out. Paint work is in very good order and the body straight and tidy. The tan leather seats are excellent as are the black carpets console and leather-trimmed dash. A late model radio and F40-style shift knob are the only noticeable changes to the otherwise standard Ferrari cockpit. Well maintained and with well-judged modifications this 308 GTB has been transformed into a truly outstanding drivers car ideally suited for FCA rallies and tours or similar road events where the improvements can be fully appreciated.