Ferrari 308 GTB

The 308 was designed by Pininfarina’s Leonardo Fioravanti, credible for the development and shape of some of Ferrari’s most iconic models such as the Daytona, Berlinetta Boxer and Dino. Like the GT4, although a 2+2 with a longer wheel base and far more angular design, the 308 not only boasted some elements of contrast with the shape of the GT4 but shared similarities in mechanical elements. Built between 1976 and 1985 as the successor to the 246 Dino, the Ferrari 308 was fitted with a 3 litre 90-degree belt driven V8 engine fitted with twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. It was transversely mounted with the transaxle transmission assembly, found below and to the rear of the engines sump. All models were fitted with a fully synchromesh 5 speed manual gear box (more commonly known as ‘’dog leg’’). The 308 was fitted with all-independent double wishbone suspension, coaxial coil springs and hydraulic dampers.

Ordered brand new in 1977 and later delivered to a Mr Brian Bargh, a chartered accountant from Chesterfield via Cooper Car Sales of Rothley on the 8^th April 1978. This particular example was one of the first metal bodied 308s’s to land in the UK and was specified with Rosso Corsa exterior paintwork and Nero leather interior.

Unlike many other 308’s available today, this car is presented in wonderful condition and possesses an excellent, well documented history from new. Within the vehicles extensive document folder are letters and correspondence from Ferrari, congratulating and thanking him on his purchase of a new car. Among the cars earlier history is a number of service Invoices from Cooper Car sales (the supplying dealer) as well as other reputable specialists and main dealers which have maintained the car throughout its lifetime. These include Graypaul, Dick Lovett, DK Engineering, Talacrest, Nick Cartwright and various others.

Within the 308’s earlier history is a letter from 1988 written by Nick Cartwright to the owner at the time (Mr. Hoskison) who required a valuation of the vehicle. At the age of 10 years the car had covered a mere 4,200 miles and was described by Nicholas in its ‘’superb original condition’’. Also present with the cars history is a letter written a year later to a gentleman enquiring about the cars history written in November 1989. Cartwright who knew the 308 very well from previous involvement shares his knowledge of the car after having prepared it for a Ferrari Concours in 1982 where it came first within its class. He then summarises the letter by saying ‘’The mileage is undoubtedly genuine and It must be one of the finest 308 GTB’s in existence’’.

This brilliant example is complete with a good service history, all of which is documented with multiple invoices detailing any works carried out and includes nearly every single MOT test certificate the car has had. The 308 has recently received an annual service, brake fluid change and various other works carried out by Dick Lovett in May of 2018.

Furlonger have acquired this wonderful example for sale and it is presented in its original, untampered specification. The 308’s comprehensive history folder is joined by its original service book, handbook, leather book-pack and keys. Having covered just shy of 23,000 miles, this carefully maintained, genuine mileage example is not to be missed.