1978 Ferrari 308 GTB 'Dry Sump, Carburettor'

The 308 GTB was launched at the Paris Motor show in 1975 as a direct replacement for the Dino 246, and the innovative Pininfarina design with sweeping curves and aggressive lines has gone on to become one of the most recognised Ferraris of all time. Fitted with a 2.9 litre DOHC V8 engine fitted with four Weber 40DCNF Carburetors that produced 255bhp, it was the first of ledgendary rear engined V8 Ferraris. The 308 would accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and was capable of reaching 159 mph. In 1980, 'more manageable' fuel injection replaced the Webers and, embarassingly, power went down from 255 bhp to 214 bhp, however, two years later four valves per cylinder were added giving 'Quattro Valvole' models 240bhp. The 308 was manufactured in both GTB and GTS forms from 1977 to 1985 before being replaced by the 328.

First registered on 08/04/1978, this rare, dry sump, carburetor Ferrari 308 GTB Chassis #23533, is one of the earliest right-hand drive GTB steel bodied cars.

Clearly a much-loved car throughout its life, the first owner must have been quite a Ferrari aficionado having highly specified the car initially and adding rare factory options such as the boot spoiler. There is even an original letter from Ferrari, thanking the first owner for his purchase, in the history file.

It appears this lovely Ferrari was seldom used, and between 1978 and 1994 it only covered 6,768 miles. A letter from Ferrari main dealer, Mortimer Houghton Turner in Gloucester dated 28th April 1994, states that the speedometer was replaced due to it being calibrated in kms rather than miles from the factory. The car now shows 16,675 and, combined with the previous 6,768 miles, means that this cherished Ferrari has covered 23,500 miles in total, which is just over 600 a year. The original kph calibrated speedometer is still with the car.

This low mileage is corroborated by a pile of old MoTs (excluding the first 4 years), the stamped service book, and a number of old invoices for services and work done dating back to 1980.

The history file is extensive and along with the aforementioned invoices, MoTs and service records, there are awards for winning Concours and other classic shows from bygone years. The much-coveted, original tool roll is also present with the vehicle as is its original book pack and copies of magazines in which this sparkling Ferrari has appeared.

From more recent times there is an invoice in 2013 from DK engineering for the sum of £3,500 for a service and general mechanical maintenance, followed by another in December 2015 for an extensive service by Carr's Ferrari Main Dealer which included all belts, plugs, points and a gearbox service.

Chassis #23533 must be one of the best examples of the 308 GTB out there. Ticking all the boxes for any astute car aficionado and perspicacious Ferrari collector. Low mileage, an excellent history and in remarkable condition, along with being one of the most desirable models and specifications money can buy.