The Ferrari 308: A journey into distinction

The roar of a Ferrari's engine, the sleek lines of its body and the sheer thrill it brings to those both sat in it and those looking at it - these are the elements that define the legendary Ferrari 308. In this blog post, we will look at the attraction of this amazing car, exploring some of its iconic features and delving into its glamorous history. Here we go…

The Ferrari 308, first introduced in 1975 at the Paris Motor Show and manufactured until 1985, is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Its lustrous design, characterised by the distinctive wedge shape and pop-up headlights, remains a symbol of automotive excellence. While officially named the Ferrari 308, the car was initially marketed under the Dino brand, paying homage to Enzo Ferrari’s son, Alfredo ‘Dino’ Ferrari. 

This Italian marvel, the body of which was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti (who also designed the Daytona) and crafted by the renowned Italian design house, Pininfarina, quickly earned its place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, becoming an out-and-out classic icon.

The 308 delivers a symphony of power and precision. Breaking new ground for Ferrari, the 308 marked the brand’s first foray into mid-engine V8 territory. In placing a 2.9-litre V8 engine longitudinally behind the driver’s seat, the 308 achieved an optimal weight distribution, resulting in superb handling characteristics. The roar of the mid-mounted engine became a signature soundtrack, signalling the driver’s entry into the realm of high-performance motoring.

Sitting on a tube frame and containing a 5-speed dog-leg manual gearbox, the aerodynamic curves and sporty silhouette of the Ferrari 308 contribute not only to its aesthetic and cultural appeal (anyone remember Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I.?)  but also to its exceptional performance on the road. The tubular space frame chassis provides a sturdy yet lightweight foundation, contributing to the car’s nimble handling. Early models featured fibreglass bodies, although this later transitioned to steel for improved durability.

There are two models - the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) and the GTS (Gran Turismo Spider). The main difference between the two models lies in their roof configurations - the GTB refers to a berlinetta, which is an Italian term for a two-seater coupe with a fixed roof and this typically has a solid, non-removable roof. The GTS model, on the other hand, is a spider, indicating it has a removable targa-style roof or a convertible soft top, allowing for an open-air driving experience. In terms of additional models, rally racing versions of the 308 GTB  - the GT/M - were produced in small numbers, but production ceased after the cancellation of the Group B class in racing.

In the world of automotive excellence, the Ferrari 308 stands as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to create vehicles that withstand the test of time. From its stunning design to its exhilarating performance, the 308 continues to capture the hearts of classic car owners, and it is really easy to see why. What a beauty!