Introduction
The Ferrari 308 is a simple Italian mid-engine sports car produced by Ferrari between 1975 and 1985. It was created to follow the beloved Dino models and bear the Ferrari ability to an extra arcade with its fair performance, epochal styling by Pininfarina, and exciting V8 engine.
Ferrari designed the 308 for driving addicts who needed a true grand journeying sports car — one that was still inspiring on arching roads yet usable and abundant for casual touring or weekend drives. Its mix of culture, design purity, and likable driving character makes it a timeless beloved for collectors and Ferrari fans alike.
Quick Overview Table
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 2.9L V8, Naturally Aspirated |
| Power | 211–255 hp (varies by model) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Body Style | Coupe (GTB) / Targa (GTS) |
| Layout | Mid-Engine, RWD |
| Seating | 2 Seats |
| Production Years | 1975–1985 |
Exterior Design
The Ferrari 308’s exterior debris one of its most celebrated attributes — a brew of sharp lines and classic curves that define Italian design of the era.
Key Design Highlights:
- Pop-up Headlights — A quintessential feature of classic Italian sports cars.
- Side Air Intakes — Functional styling that helps cool the mid-mounted V8.
- Targa Roof (GTS versions) — Removable roof panel for open-air driving.
- Low, Wide Stance — Enhances aerodynamics and presence on the road.
Early models originally used a fiberglass body, which saved weight and improved agility,y but later switched to steel for durability.
Interior & Comfort
Inside the Ferrari 308, practicality gives way to driver-focused elements. Accommodation is neat and abetting, with analog criterion and switchgear typical of performance cars of the era.
Dashboard & instrument
The instrument band is centered around large tachometer and speedometer dials, providing clear readouts and a racing feel. Despite being a simple car, the layout feels a bit cluttered.
Seats & Space
The seats are designed to hold you in place during spirited driving, but taller drivers may find head and legroom limited — a common trade-off in classic sports cars focused on performance over comfort.
Luxury Feel
Materials like leather and chrome accents add premium touches, though you won’t find modern comforts like adaptive climate control or infotainment screens — part of the analog charm that purists love.
Engine & Performance
The Ferrari 308’s performance is anchored by its high-revving 2.9-litre V8 engine. Over its decade of production, Ferrari introduced several versions of the powerplant to meet Performance and emissions standards.
Performance Evolution by Model
| Model | Power | 0–60 mph | Top Speed |
| 308 GTB/GTS (Carbureted) | 255 hp | ~6.5 sec | ~156 mph |
| 308 GTSi/GTBi (Fuel Injected) | 211–214 hp | ~7.0 sec | ~149 mph |
| 308 QV (Quattrovalvole) | ~237–240 hp | ~6.2–6.4 sec | ~158 mph |
Each variant emphasizes a slightly different Character — from the raw, carburetor-fed punch of the earliest 308s to the smoother performance of the later Quattrovalvole models, thanks to four valves per cylinder.
Driving Experience
The Ferrari 308’s balanced chassis and rear-wheel drive make it a joy to corner, while the gated 5-speed manual gearbox delivers crisp shifts and an engaging driving rhythm — hallmarks of classic Ferrari DNA.
Safety Features
- Basic Anti-Lock Braking System (optional) in some later models.
- Driver and passenger seat belts
- Rigid chassis design for enhanced structural integrity.
Technology & Infotainment
- Classic radio/stereo options
- Manual climate controls
- Simple gauge cluster
Variants & Pricing
While we don’t list exact prices, Ferrari 308 variants generally come in the following trims:
Main Variants
308 GTB – Coupe body, classic performance focus.
308 GTS – Targa roof version for open-top driving.
GTBi/GTSi308 – Fuel-injected models with smoother torque delivery.
308QV – Higher-revving engine with improved airflow.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Timeless Italian styling by Pininfarina
- Balanced mid-engine performance
- Engaging the manual gearbox
- Strong enthusiast and collector demand
- Authentic classic Driving experience
Cons
- No modern safety tech
- Fuel economy is poor relative to modern cars
- Limited practicality — two seats, small cabin
- Some reliability quirks (e.g., Electric windows & transmission notches)
- Parts and care can be fancy.
FAQs
A: Yes, if you love simple Italian sports cars and enjoy match driving with an attractive character.
A: Conditional on the model, 0-60 mph can range from ~6.2 to 7.2 seconds, with top speeds coming mid-150s mph.
A: Parts for common components are generally available, but rare variants and body parts may take longer and be costlier.
A: It’s reliable for a classic if maintained properly, but expect casual repairs and higher care than modern cars.
A: It’s possible, but not supported — fuel, comfort, and practicality block make it better for recreational driving.
Conclusion
The Ferrari 308 remains one of the most dear simple sports cars in automotive history. With its timeless Pininfarina styling, active V8 engine, and likable manual transmission, it mirrors analog performance at its finest. While it lacks modern safety systems and tech, it more than makes up for it with ability, character, and driving Happiness — a true icon that continues to grip addicts worldwide.
If you’re wistful about simple cars and fancy an original Ferrari Experience, the 308 is an excellent choice — one that deserves a spot in any serious collection or substance-abusing garage.
