Introduced in 1986, the GTB Turbo—along with the Targa-topped GTS Turbo—became the final iteration of the two-seat, transverse-mounted V-8 berlinetta platform that returned considerable sales success for Ferrari over various models. The new car was essentially an intercooled and turbocharged variant of the earlier 328 GTB but with a smaller capacity V-8 engine. The 2.0-litre Tipo F106 N unit returned some 254 horsepower and was capable of accelerating the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds, still packing a punch as it yielded a greater power-to-litre ratio compared to earlier Prancing Horse models.

The introduction of turbocharged technology increased maximum torque, which was available at lower speeds, thus improving the GTB Turbo’s general flexibility. Turbo boost was introduced gradually from around 3,000 rpm upwards, making handling both more manageable and rewarding for drivers. The smaller displacement of the engine made the GTB Turbo a hit in its domestic Italy as it qualified for lower tax bands compared to other supercars of its day.

The example here is an Italian-delivered car, distributed new via Symbol Car s.r.l. of Turin in September 1986. The Ferrari was not registered by its first owner until February 1987, though, when it was taken to Varese. Two years later, the GTB Turbo was acquired by a resident of Naples, where it stayed when purchased by a resident of the same city one year on. In September 1991, the Ferrari was acquired by its next owner in Barletta, near Bari, and in February 1992 it moved back near to Naples. The car was traded twice more with owners near Città del Sole, in 2001 and again in 2014, before being exported to France in February 2016. At this point, the GTB Turbo was acquired by Marcel Petitjean, a prominent collector of new and old Ferrari models based near Strasbourg and on the Côte d'Azur.

Today, the Ferrari presents in its factory-correct colour combination of Rosso Corsa over Nero leather upholstery. As verified by Ferrari factory data (available to view on file), the GTB Turbo retains its matching-numbers chassis, engine, and gearbox. The car’s history file is further supported by an estratto cronologico that lists its ownership history in Italy. Bidders should note that, following a period of prolonged static display, the car will need a mechanical inspection prior to being driven on the road.

An icon of 1980s style and exciting engineering, this GTB Turbo is yearning to be put back to its best by a Ferrari enthusiast looking for a desirable and rare model.