Considering the success of the 308 GTB and GTS models, Ferrari knew that it was in its best interest to retain the same basic formula for the car’s successor, the 328. Stylistically, the car remained very similar to its predecessor, save for molded bumpers, a slightly smaller front grille, and its most readily distinguishable feature: a small roof spoiler that was mounted just aft of the rear seats. Pininfarina’s designers took the time to smooth out the lines on the body, making the car appear to be slightly less aggressive but more refined overall. Inside, the 328 received more supportive seats, along with updated ergonomics, in an effort to further refine the driving experience.

The V-8’s bore and stroke were increased, bringing displacement to 3,186 cubic centimeters. This helped to increase output to 270 brake horsepower at 7,000 rpms. At the time, the car’s performance was exceptional and still remains highly respectable today, with a 0–60 time of just 5.5 seconds, leading to a top speed of 160 mph.

The classic North American-specification Rosso Corsa example offered here, chassis number 77152, was delivered new by the well-known Gentry Lane of Toronto, Ontario, on 6 July 1988 to Al Palladini Leasing of Woodbridge, Ontario. It has had only two private owners and has been conscientiously well-maintained. The original paint remains in excellent condition throughout, with a rich deep shine that can only be found in factory work, while the interior shows only the lightest of use, appropriate to a car that had been driven only 17,171 actual kilometers (10,670 miles) at the time of cataloguing. All finishes throughout are clean, as one would expect them to be, and a clear CARFAX report verifies the clean history indicated by the presence of the original body number in the engine bay and original Securit glass throughout.

The car underwent a full belt service and suspension detail in May of this year at Daytona Auto Centre of Woodbridge, with receipts on file for nearly $24,300 CAD. It is also offered with its original Owner’s Warranty and Service Book, U.S.-specification 328 GTS manual (correct for a Canadian car), the Sales and Service Organization booklet, and the manual for the Blaupunkt Malibu CR 42 AM/FM cassette stereo system, as well as the original tool set, jack in its pouch, test light, and car cover.

One of the nicest original examples of the 328 GTS that RM Sotheby’s has recently offered, this very low-mileage car will allow a new owner to slip behind the wheel of the automobile he or she wanted back in 1989—just as appropriate today as it was back then!