Lot 223

Arizona 2017

1979 Ferrari 308 GTB

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$93,500 USD | Sold

United States | Phoenix, Arizona

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Chassis No.
30461
Engine No.
01816
  • Beautifully presented original example with just 23,000 miles from new
  • U.S. delivery; includes books, tools, and jack
  • Recent 30,000-mile belt service
  • Final year of the carbureted 308 GTB

240 bhp, 2,926 cc DOHC V-8 engine with four twin-choke Weber carburetors, five-speed manual transaxle, front and rear independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 92.1 in.

Please note that this lot is titled by its chassis type and serial number: F106AB30461.

The Ferrari 308 GTB, introduced at the 1975 Paris Motor Show, marked a significant change for the company from Maranello. Powered by a mid-mounted transverse V-8, the 308 opened up a market segment unexplored by Ferrari, which had aimed its products solely at an elite clientele. As a successor to the V-6 Dino, the 308 was powered by a 240 horsepower 3.0-liter four-cam 90-degree V-8 transversely mounted ahead of the rear axle. The four cams were driven by toothed belts and the engine was fitted with a quartet of Weber twin-choke carburetors. A five-speed all-synchromesh rear transaxle was included, and the chassis, with fully independent front and rear suspension, was much like the Dino’s, including the 92.1-inch wheelbase.

A GTS variant was unveiled at the 1977 Frankfurt Motor Show, featuring an open targa roof. Bosch fuel injection arrived at the end of 1980, and the adoption of four-valve per cylinder technology came two years later. Thanks to the popularity of the Magnum, P.I. television series, this is to many, the quintessential Ferrari.

This largely original example from the final year of the carbureted V-8 has traveled just 23,000 miles from new. It incorporates all the desirable updates made during the production run, including aero outside mirrors and a gas strut-operated tail section for ease of servicing. Most importantly, it benefits from a 30,000-mile service, including cam belt change, new belt tensioners, and a valve adjustment in May 2015. Its original jack, tools, and manuals are included, along with the proper U.S.-specification emissions equipment: air pump, injectors, and catalytic converter—even the original smog certification sticker on the windshield.

Presented in Rosso Chiaro over Nero leather, rarely does one find such a fine example of a 1970s supercar in the condition as newly delivered some 37 years later. A perfect candidate for any concours preservation class or Ferrari Classiche certification, this is an opportunity not to be missed for all enthusiasts and collectors.