1978 Ferrari 308 GTS

Vendor supplied images

Highlights

Striking Giallo Fly paintwork
Subject to an extensive cosmetic overhaul
Originally based in the USA, now registered in Poland
Subject with a valid technical inspection

The Appeal

The 308 is arguably one of the most important Ferraris in the Maranello company's history. Mid-engined, incredibly pretty and undeniably aggressive, the car's wedgy, sinuous lines soon made for an iconic silhouette, loaded with Pininfarina elegance. Curves and sharp edges flowed together in a vehicle that felt as elegant as it did brash and confident.

Earlier examples of the 308 are by far the most desirable. The 2.9L F106 V8 was fed by Weber carbs in these, something that offered a punch of extra horsepower compared to 1980's introduction of the cleaner, albeit weaker Bosch fuel injection. These cars, as a result, are the most clamoured for - and it's little surprise we expect this striking example to garner plenty of attention.

Originally delivered to the USA, this 308 GTS is in many ways the quintessential 70s Targa-Top Ferrari. Presented in a striking Giallo Fly, it's a remarkably eye-catching car, contrasted beautifully with a lesser-spotted dark brown leather cabin. This is a scarce combo, and was recently refreshed as part of an extensive cosmetic overhaul.

It doesn't stop with the colours, though. Underneath the car is a beautifully clean chassis, with no significant signs of corrosion, and the V8 is still burbling away exactly as it should. The result is a 70s sports car that's defying its years in impressive style; every bit as pretty and stylish as it was leaving Maranello more than forty-five years ago.

History and Paperwork

First registered in January 1978
Originally based in the USA
The vendor reports that the car's US history is known
Imported to Poland, with two private collectors as registered keepers
Odometer shows 62,598 miles on a five-figure odometer
MOT valid
Polish certificate of title included
Comprehensive maintenance undertaken in 2022, by Stacja Klasyki
Recently subject to a complete strip-down of bodywork, including cleaning and repainting
Carburettor overhaul and full engine service has been carried out

It's obvious that this 308 has been very well cared for. Plenty of maintenance has been recently carried out, and the car's cosmetic condition very much speaks for itself. While we can't fully verify the mileage, the car's condition seems to support that 62,598 mile reading.

The Condition

Beautifully presented with a striking Giallo Fly livery
Recently subject to a full strip-down and respray
The vendor notes a minor scratch on the rear left-hand-side panel
However, this doesn't detract from the car
Fitted with original 14" Cromodora five-spoke alloy wheels, shod in Dunlop Sport Classic tyres
Pop-up headlights are lifting correctly
Underside is very clean and nicely presented, with no sign of corrosion

The 308 GTS is a beautiful car. The sharp edges and smooth curves work together in tandem to create a car that feels determined, imposing - while maintaining a near paradoxical elegance and beauty that feels demure and restrained. It's something only 1970s Pininfarina could pull off so ably, and it's little wonder the car's looks continue to be so prized.

With pop-up headlights and nicely-kept Cromodora five-spoke alloys, everything about this 308 feels like a time capsule to a very different age of car design, and it's bound to turn plenty of heads thanks to that bright, gleaming paintwork. The story is only sweetened when we look at that clean, beautifully presented chassis, which has avoided any and all corrosion that retro Italian motors tend to collect.

Internally, the cabin is true-to-spec
Interior has been partially restored to a sympathetic standard
Rare brown leather upholstery is accented by yellow belts and black accents
Embossed Cavallino logo on the headrests
No sign of any rips or tears, with only gentle signs of wear to note
Momo steering wheel
Electric windows, air conditioning, and original Veglia Borletti analogue clock
Alpine cassette player in situ
Comes with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit

You don't get more 'period' than this sort of cabin. The brown leather was a rare sight on the 308s, which is more the pity. When matched up alongside the paintwork, it creates a particularly immersive environment for driver and passenger alike. Taking in the array of switches on the centre console, the cleanly presented dash and the Momo steering wheel, it all feels gloriously tactile, too.

The reupholstered areas have been treated very sympathetically, and the car feels very authentic from headlining to carpets. We understand every one of the car's features and options are working as they should.

The Mechanics

2.9 litre F106 V8 powerplant
Desirable early spec with four twin-choke Weber carbs
Five-speed open-gate manual transmission
Rear-wheel drive
Plenty of maintenance work has been carried out
All bushings have been replaced
Carburettor overhaul and full engine service recently completed

Offering a fierce 237bhp, this 2.9L F106 V8 is quite a piece of kit. These earlier cars boasted four twin-choke Weber carbs feeding the engine, which gave them an extra punch compared to the models that came in after 1980. Looking through this one is a real treat - the engine bay is clean and well-kept, with an overhaul and service recently completed.

We understand the car to be driving as it should, with no reports of mechanical issues. With that five-speed open-gate manual transmission, the car offers a very engaging experience for the lucky driver - low to the asphalt, with plenty of power and a balanced mid-engine layout.

It's not often an opportunity like this presents itself, and we'd advise any enthusiast to not let it pass you by!

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here