When you think about Ferrari road cars, what usually comes to mind? Maybe you’re thinking of a red 2-door sportster (either a coupe or a spyder) with a V8 in the middle? Perhaps you’d think of the more modern iterations like the F430 Scuderia, the infamous 458 Italia, or maybe even the hypercar-fast SF90 Stradale.
However, many may not know that the root of all these masterpieces is the Ferrari 308 — the model that shaped the future of Ferrari’s V8 line. This car set the stage for Ferrari’s iconic V8 lineage, blending performance, style, and accessibility in a way that captured the hearts of car lovers worldwide.
More than just a sports car, the Ferrari 308 changed the game for Ferrari. When it first hit the scene in 1975, it brought a new level of excitement and accessibility to the world of high-performance cars.
But there’s more to the Ferrari 308 than just its looks and engine. It’s a car that captured hearts and minds, both on the road and on the screen. From its groundbreaking debut to its starring role in popular culture, the 308 has a story that’s as compelling as the car itself.
Join me as we explore the history, design, and lasting impact of the Ferrari 308. By the end, you’ll discover why this model is a cornerstone of Ferrari’s legacy and was the much-needed start for what’s to come.
The Birth of the Ferrari 308
In the early 1970s, Ferrari was known for its powerful V12 engines that dominated both the racetrack and the road. However, these impressive machines were also complex and expensive, limiting their appeal to a small, elite group of car enthusiasts. Enzo Ferrari, the founder of Ferrari, had long resisted the idea of producing road cars with fewer than twelve cylinders. However, as the demand for more accessible, practical, and affordable sports cars grew, Ferrari needed to adapt.
This shift in strategy led to the development of the Ferrari 308, a car that would not only introduce the world to Ferrari’s V8 engines but also redefine the brand’s approach to road cars. The transition from the Dino 206 and 246 GT, which featured V6 engines, to the Ferrari-badged 308 was a significant step. It marked the beginning of Ferrari’s commitment to producing high-performance V8 engines for the road.
The Ferrari 308 GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 1975. Designed by Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina, one of Ferrari’s most trusted design houses, the 308 GTB was a visual masterpiece. Fioravanti had previously designed the Dino 246 GT, and he brought the same elegance and flair to the 308. The car featured sleek, aerodynamic lines that were both nostalgic and modern, drawing inspiration from the Dino while incorporating new design elements.
What made the 308 truly revolutionary was not just its design but its accessibility. This car made Ferrari’s legendary performance available to a broader audience. By introducing a V8 engine in a more affordable package, Ferrari broadened its market appeal without compromising performance or prestige. This move was a victory for the business minds at Fiat, Ferrari’s parent company, and was warmly embraced by customers.
The launch of the 308 GTB marked a turning point for Ferrari, setting the stage for future V8 supercars and establishing a new standard for road performance. It combined the brand’s racing heritage with a more practical and accessible design, making Ferrari’s legendary driving experience available to a broader audience.
Design and Engineering Marvels
The Ferrari 308 was a groundbreaking model, not just because it introduced a new era of V8 engines but also due to its innovative design and engineering. Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina crafted a car that was as much a work of art as a feat of engineering.
V8 in Favor of V12
At the heart of the Ferrari 308 was its 3.0-liter V8 engine, a significant departure from Ferrari’s traditional V12s. This engine was transversely mounted, a configuration that optimized weight distribution and balance. The V8 featured four twin-choke Weber carburetors, contributing to its robust power output. European models produced 255 PS (252 hp), while US models, due to stricter emission controls, generated 240 hp. It’s also worth noting the later models eventually produce slightly less power due to applied fuel injection and even more stringent emission controls.
The engine was paired with a five-speed manual gearbox featuring a unique transaxle design. This setup placed the transmission below and to the rear of the engine, contributing to the car’s balanced handling. The limited-slip differential also improved the driving experience, providing excellent traction and control.
Revolutionary Aero and Lightweight Construction
One of the standout features of the Ferrari 308 was its aerodynamic design. This was the first Ferrari to benefit from extensive wind tunnel testing at Pininfarina, resulting in a sleek and efficient shape. The low nose, raked windshield, and sculpted side air intakes were carefully designed to reduce drag and improve airflow, enhancing the car’s stability and performance at high speeds.
The revolutionary aerodynamic is also backed by a lightweight body to make it agile. Initially, the 308 GTB featured a body made from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), a bold choice at the time. This material significantly reduced the car’s weight, making it lighter and faster. The GRP body weighed in at just 1,050 kg (2,315 lbs), which allowed the car to accelerate more quickly and handle more nimbly. In 1977, Ferrari switched to steel bodies, which added around 150 kg (331 lbs) to the car’s weight but improved durability and production efficiency.
Advanced Suspension and Braking
The 308’s suspension system was another area where Ferrari’s engineering was like no other. The car featured an all-independent suspension setup with double wishbones, coil springs, hydraulic dampers, and anti-roll bars on both axles. This advanced suspension design provided a smooth ride and responsive handling, allowing drivers to take full advantage of the car’s performance capabilities.
Braking was equally impressive, with four-wheel vented disc brakes providing solid and reliable stopping power. The unassisted rack-and-pinion steering system ensured precise and direct feedback, giving drivers a strong sense of connection with the road.
Evolution of the Ferrari 308 Series
The Ferrari 308 evolved significantly during its production run from 1975 to 1985, adapting to changing market demands and technological advancements. Each iteration of the 308 brought new features, performance tweaks, and design refinements. Here’s everything you need to know about them:
1975-1980 Ferrari 308 GTB
The journey began with the 308 GTB, debuting at the Paris Motor Show in 1975. This model was the first to introduce the mid-mounted 3.0-liter V8 engine. Initially, the 308 GTB featured a lightweight glass-reinforced plastic body, significantly contributing to its impressive performance. The GRP body was a daring choice, allowing the car to weigh only 1,050 kg (2,315 lbs), enhancing its agility and speed. But as mentioned earlier, Ferrari would transition to a heavier but more durable steel body in 1977.
Moreover, the 308 GTB’s interior was designed with luxury and functionality in mind. Leather-covered seats, door panels, and dashboard elements provided a premium feel, while the straightforward instrument cluster ensured drivers had all the necessary information at their fingertips. Despite its sporty design, the 308 GTB offered a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
1977-1980 Ferrari 308 GTS
Following the success of the 308 GTB, Ferrari introduced the 308 GTS in 1977 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The GTS model featured a Targa top, allowing for an open-air driving experience that quickly gained popularity. The Targa roof panel could be removed and stored behind the seats, giving drivers the flexibility to enjoy both a coupe and convertible experience.
The 308 GTS retained the same 3.0-liter V8 engine and performance characteristics as the GTB, but the addition of the Targa top made it a more versatile and appealing option for those who enjoyed open-air driving. The GTS’s design included distinctive side air intakes and iconic pop-up headlights, maintaining the sleek and aerodynamic look of the GTB.
Inside, the GTS offered the same luxurious interior as the GTB, with leather-trimmed seats and a well-designed instrument cluster. The open-top design added an extra layer of excitement and appeal, making the 308 GTS a popular choice among Ferrari enthusiasts and a recognizable symbol of the brand.
1980-1983 Ferrari 308 GTBi/GTSi
In 1980, Ferrari introduced the 308 GTBi and GTSi, marking a significant evolution in the model’s history. The most notable change was the introduction of Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, replacing the carburetors used in earlier models. This change was primarily driven by the need to meet stricter emission regulations in the United States and other markets.
While the switch to fuel injection resulted in a slight reduction in power—European models produced 214 PS (211 hp), and US models generated 205 PS (202 hp)—it also improved the car’s efficiency and reliability. The fuel-injected models were less temperamental and easier to maintain, making them more appealing to a broader audience.
Externally, the 308 GTBi and GTSi maintained the iconic design of their predecessors, with minor updates to reflect the technological changes. Inside, the most notable updates included the relocation of the clock and oil temperature gauge to the center console, a new black steering wheel with three perforated spokes, and seats with a different pattern.
1982-1985 Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS Quattrovalvole
The 308's final evolution came in 1982 with the introduction of the 308 GTB and GTS Quattrovalvole (QV). The term “Quattrovalvole” refers to the four-valve-per-cylinder configuration, which significantly enhanced the car’s performance. This upgrade was a response to the power loss experienced with the earlier fuel-injected models.
The 308 QV’s engine produced 240 PS (237 hp) for European models and 230 PS (228 hp) for US models, restoring much of the performance lost due to emission controls. The new four-valve heads improved airflow and combustion efficiency, making the Quattrovalvole models faster and more powerful.
Design-wise, the Quattrovalvole models featured subtle updates, including a slim louvered panel in the front lid to aid radiator exhaust air exit, power-operated mirrors with a small enamel Ferrari badge, and a redesigned radiator grille with rectangular driving lights. The interior also saw minor refinements, such as cloth seat centers available as an option and a satin black three-spoke steering wheel with a triangular center.
Indeed, the Quattrovalvole models represented the pinnacle of the 308 series, combining the best elements of design, performance, and technology. They set the stage for the transition to the Ferrari 328, which would continue the legacy of Ferrari’s V8 supercars.
The Cultural and Legacy Impact of the Ferrari 308
As the car that started a phenomenal supercar series, inevitably, the 308 became a cultural icon. Its influence extends far beyond its years of production, shaping the perception of Ferrari and exotic sports cars in general.
Shaping the Ferrari Brand
The Ferrari 308 played a crucial role in shaping the Ferrari brand’s image. Before the 308, Ferrari was primarily associated with V12 engines and high-end, expensive sports cars. The introduction of the 308, with its more accessible V8 engine, broadened Ferrari’s appeal. It demonstrated that Ferrari could produce a vehicle that was both high-performing and more attainable for a wider audience.
This shift was significant for Ferrari’s market strategy. The 308 proved that a Ferrari could be practical for everyday driving while still offering the thrill and prestige associated with the brand. This approach laid the groundwork for future models, ensuring Ferrari could compete in the burgeoning market for high-performance yet practical sports cars.
The 308's Influence on Future Models
The success of the Ferrari 308 had a lasting impact on subsequent Ferrari models. Its design and engineering innovations set new standards for Ferrari’s V8 lineup. The mid-engine layout provided excellent balance and handling and became a staple in Ferrari’s design philosophy. The 308’s aerodynamic shape, lightweight construction, and powerful V8 engine influenced the development of future models such as the Ferrari 328, 348, and, eventually, the iconic 458 Italia.
Moreover, the 308’s use of a transversely mounted V8 engine was a technical milestone that carried forward into later models. This configuration helped optimize weight distribution and performance, becoming a defining characteristic of Ferrari’s mid-engine V8 supercars. The lessons learned from the 308’s development and production were integral to the evolution of Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Enduring Popularity and Collectibility
The Ferrari 308 remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors. Its combination of performance, design, and cultural significance makes it a highly sought-after model. Early GRP-bodied versions, in particular, are prized for their rarity and lightweight construction. The steel-bodied models, while slightly heavier, are also cherished for their durability and refinement.
Collectors appreciate the 308 not only for its historical significance but also for its driving experience. The car’s responsive handling, robust V8 engine, and timeless design make it a joy to drive. The 308’s popularity has endured over the decades, with its value steadily increasing as more people recognize its importance in Ferrari’s history.
Last Words
The Ferrari 308’s legacy extends beyond the brand itself. It set a benchmark for other manufacturers, showing that a high-performance sports car could be both exhilarating and practical. The 308’s success inspired other automakers to explore similar concepts, leading to the development of a new generation of mid-engine sports cars.
In the broader context of automotive history, the 308 is seen as a turning point. It bridged the gap between Ferrari’s racing heritage and its future as a producer of accessible, high-performance road cars. The 308’s influence is evident in the design and engineering of many modern sports cars, reflecting its enduring impact on the industry.
The 308 properly paved the way for future generations of Ferrari V8 supercars, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to amaze and inspire car enthusiasts worldwide.