1980 Ferrari 308 GTB

The 308 GTB was launched at the Paris Motor show in 1975 as a direct replacement for the Dino 246, and the innovative Pininfarina design with sweeping curves and aggressive lines has gone on to become one of the most recognised Ferraris of all time. Fitted with a 255bhp, 2.9 litre DOHC V8 engine fueled through four Weber 40DCNF carburetors, it was the first of a line of legendary rear engined V8 Ferraris. The 308 would accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and was capable of reaching 159 mph. In 1980, 'more manageable' fuel injection replaced the Webers and, embarrassingly, the power output went down from 255 bhp to 214 bhp, however, two years later four valves per cylinder were added giving 'Quattro Valvole' models 240bhp. The 308 was manufactured in both GTB and GTS forms from 1977 to 1985 before being replaced by the 328.

This particular 308 GTB is an original UK right-hand drive car ordered by Maranello Concessionaires Ltd. to be used as one of their demonstrators. An invoice dated 14/09/1979 made out to the importer shows that the car was finished in Blue Dino Metallic and upholstered in Sabbia leather. Other options specified from new included air-conditioning, wider wheels, and a front spoiler.

The first private owner was a Mr J. Pawle Esq. of Hertfordshire, and an invoice dated 14th July 1981 shows that a Ferrari 308 GT4 2+2 was taken in part exchange against this car, which had by that point covered 5,054 miles. The service history of this car is plotted neatly through a raft of invoices in the history file which also contains a service book showing 19 stamps over the years from recognised marque specialists such as Emblem Sports Cars, Kent High Performance, and Rardley Motors.

Most recently, in October 2015, the car was fully recommissioned by Mark Devaney, proprietor of 24 Hundred 'The Dino Workshop'. Eighty hours of labour was invoiced for extensive attentions which included the reconditioning of all brake callipers, new hoses, brake pads, a new master cylinder and bleeding of the system. Replacement cam belts and tensioners plus auxiliary drive belts were also fitted. All fluids were changed and an MoT carried out. Prior to our vendor's ownership, the car had a full interior retrim with new carpets, and in April of this year, the car was professionally resprayed in its original colour and now presents superbly. A set of new Michelin TRX tyres has also recently been fitted.

Supplied with its dedicated book pack containing the service and driver's manuals, a toolkit, a UK V5c and an MoT until 30.6.17, this highly collectable 308 GTB, now showing 86,502 miles on the odometer, is in one of the most desirable specifications and is a delightful example of a classic Ferrari.