History

The Ferrari 308 debuted at the Paris Motorshow in 1975. Penned by Pininfarina’s own Leonardo Fioravanti, its introduction came at a pivotal time in the small Italian auto manufacturers’ path forward. Ferrari needed a volume-based production flagship, of which the 308 became the foundational pillar. As well as genesis for the mid-mounted V8 Ferrari cars that enthusiasts would come to love for decades to come. Borrowing from the iconic 246 Dino, the 308 was well balanced both in chassis design, but also in economic terms for Ferrari. Designed to be an entry level Ferrari with plans to make the brand’s sports car experience more accessible than the front engine V12 examples, the 308 had appeal to both buyers and Mr. Ferrari’s ambition to fund his F1 program. It broke barriers that helped redefine Ferrari’s identity for the foreseeable future. As its successors borrowed from its success in cars such as the 328, 288GTO, and even the F40 make the 308 not only one of the most iconic Ferrari’s, but arguably an all time great amongst all automotive manufacturers and the models they put out into the world. 

Using a transversely mounted flat-plane crank V8 with a 90 degree configuration, along with two belt driven overhead camshafts for each cylinder bank the engine was connected to a transaxle mounted underneath and to the rear of the engine sump. Featuring a limited slip differential paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox the 308 produced 255 horsepower and 217 ft-lb of torque on early carbureted models. The iterations of the 308 from 1974-1985 would all use this platform, though a variety of changes mechanically and cosmetically took place during the 10+ year production run. Most notably the 308 was offered only in Vetroresina (fiberglass) format until 1977 when Ferrari switched to steel for the construction of the body. With the final book end being the 308QV, a 4-valve variant that saw the end of the run before 328 production. Though many changes occurred, the 308 grew into a pop culture icon thanks to the popular 1980s T.V. show Magnum P.I. This helped introduce the Ferrari marque to a larger, more mainstream audience. A success for Ferrari in all respects, it is perhaps this model that helped Ferrari become a synonym for the sports car.

This Car

The example on offer, Chassis #24685 was delivered by Continental Motors Inc. of LeGrange, IL. on Aug. 7th 1978 to James Cartwright of Youngstown OH. According to the original maintenance booklet The car received subsequent Ferrari recommended servicing at Continental Motors Inc. in October of 1978 and another round of servicing was completed in May of 1982 at Autohaus in Cohasset, MA. Acquired by its second owner, a Mr. Richard Coppola of Langhorne Pennsylvania in 1986, the odometer showed just 3,031 miles. Coincidentally it is reported that Mr. Coppola was also an employee of Algar Ferrar of Rosemont, PA. It was here at Algar Ferrari that consistent servicing took place. Available records show multiple instances of service including belt services up until 2005 before the car slowly saw less and less use and servicing. In 2011 LBI Limited acquired the vehicle from Mr. Coppola as a fantastic low mileage example showing 7,800 miles. While it had been sitting for the better part of 6 years, it ran and drove well. At this time it appeared to be very correct, and in stock configuration with the exception of a euro-spec front valence (we are unsure as to when this was added). LBI Limited sold the vehicle to its current owner in August of 2011. Upon the current owners acquisition, this 308 was immediately treated to a major service and any other odds and ends it needed. Over the next 14-15 years nearly 20k miles would be added along with a variety of driver oriented modifications to make this a reliable turn key performer to the owners liking, but done so tastefully and carefully. 

Modifications, completed by LMN Motorsport and Abbacus Racing, both of Virginia Beach, VA are as follows: Modern lighter high flow radiator from Nick Forza, High flow water pump, High torque starter, and replacement of all rubber hoses and lines within the past 10 years. Nick Forza adjustable coil over suspension, Gyrodisc brake system (calipers and rotors and new brake lines). As a result, later/larger 308 wheels were fitted to accommodate the new brake system and more modern continental tires added. New antenna, electronic ignition system, upgraded free flow individual carb filters along with new fuel lines. A-arms and rear muffler housing powder coated, new Alpine door speakers, higher intensity light bulbs (front). 

All of these modifications saw a nearly 300 pound weight reduction, lowered ride height and drastically increased performance. A well balanced machine that presents as original but offers an elevated driving experience over a stock 308. The car remains current in terms of service having received its last major timing belt service at 26,616 Miles in September of 2022 and any/all needs that have arisen over the years have been tended to promptly and to a high standard. This is without a doubt a very well sorted, cared for and high performing 308. 

Included in the sale are the original wheels fitted with newer Michelin tires, original books/manuals, tools, accessory light, comprehensive service records and history, original air filter assembly and intakes, distributors, extra air cleaners and available original brake components.

The Market