Introduced as the replacement for the Dino 246 in 1975, the 308 has rightfully earned a solid place in Ferrari history. It was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti, of Pininfarina, and quickly won over many enthusiasts for both its looks and performance. Ultimately, just over 3,000 308 GTS QV examples would be produced during its three-year model run. It is often associated with the popular CBS television show Magnum, P.I., as the 308 GTS played a starring role in the series, capturing the hearts of many as the Ferrari and Magnum chased down criminals on the islands of Hawaii with actor Tom Selleck behind the wheel.

The 308 shared both its tube-frame platform and double-wishbone independent suspension with the Ferrari 308 GT/4. The powerplant was a 2,926-cc transverse-mounted V-8, which, in the updated Quattrovalvole model introduced in 1982 (such as this car), adopted a 32-valve cylinder head and delivers 240-hp. Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, ventilated four-wheel disc brakes and rack-and-pinion steering contribute as important mechanical features. The engine is paired with a five-speed all synchromesh gearbox, which in turn operates in concert with a limited-slip differential. Other changes for this improved model included an available small rear spoiler, additional louvers between the headlamps to aid with the radiator exhaust, and power mirrors, amongst other minor updates. As with earlier 308s, it was offered in both an enclosed coupe version, the GT, and as an open-air model (Spider), the GTS, which boasted a targa-style removable roof panel that could be stowed behind the rear seats when not in use.

In period, Road & Track magazine conducted an owner survey that revealed that owners most mentioned reasons for wanting and enjoying a Ferrari 308 were handling, being fun to drive, styling, performance and engineering. One impressed owner went so far as to suggest that it “is merely the best all-around Ferrari ever built.”

This particular 308 GTS is presented in Rosso Corsa with crème leather interior accented by deep red piping on the seats and matching deep red carpets. The carpets are new, as are the seat covers and door panels. The work is reported to look perfect; it was carried out by Sports Classic & Competition shortly before being acquired by the present owner. The leather still has the smell of being new, and the Ferrari is further reported of being driven in a sparing manner. Scuderia Ferrari fender shields add to the classic style.

Sport Classic & Competition, in January 2015, also performed a belt service. The mechanically meticulous current owner states that at this same time “I had them go through the whole car: all new suspension, steering rack, head gaskets, belts, brakes (ventilated four-wheel discs), window motors and more. The car is correct.” It also has been fitted with an Italian/European-style deep front spoiler which provides an appealing visual stimulus. The Ferrari 308 GTS QV is in excellent driver condition.

To top it off, the Ferrari is currently owned by an ex-Formula One mechanic, Steve Matchett, who worked as a race technician with the Benetton F1 team from February 1990 through February 1998. During this period Michael Schumacher won the Drivers' Championship in both 1994 and 1995 before leaving the team for Ferrari the following year; the Benetton team won the Constructors' Championship in 1995. Schumacher would go on to win a record 91 Grands Prix and seven World Driving Championships. Now an NBC Sports television personality and Formula One commentator, the conscientious owner would surely have a dependable, solid platform underfoot. Included with the sale is a signed first edition copy of Mr. Matchett's book, Life in the Pit Lane.

With caring and preparation such as this, what’s not to like?