1979 Ferrari 308 GTB

The 308 GTB was launched at the Paris Motor show in 1975 as a direct replacement for the Dino 246. Designed by Pininfarina with sweeping curves and aggressive lines, the 308 has gone on to become one of the most recognised Ferraris of all time. The Targa-topped 308 GTS version was introduced in 1977, and came to prominence in the TV series "Magnum PI". Fitted with a 2.9 litre DOHC V8 engine fitted with four Weber 40DCNF Carburettors that produced 255bhp, the 308 went from 0 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and was capable of reaching 159 mph. In 1980, fuel injection was added to the 308 and 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.This right-hand drive Ferrari 308 GTB is a highly desirable dry-sump, carburettor example. Understood originally to have been finished in Silver, the car was repainted Rosso early on in its life and has clearly been well maintained as can be seen in the substantial history file.

In 1991, the engine was upgraded at Nigel Mansell Sports Cars Ltd with the rare " Factory Performance Pack' at a cost of over £11,500. This increased the horsepower from 250bhp to 300bhp and consisted of a gas flowed head, new valves and guides and new liners to take Daytona LM pistons. The whole engine was then balanced and fitted with high-lift camshafts.

Further performance upgrades to make the car more drivable can be seen in the history file, and include the fitting of uprated springs and Koni shock absorbers in 1996.

Later on in its life, the car underwent a mechanical re-commissioning in 2007, which included an engine rebuild with new pistons, camshafts, and bearings. The cost of this work is unknown as the invoice is missing, however, there is a worksheet summary from a previous owner.

Although it has covered 84,000mls, this Ferrari has patently been cherished and enjoyed. Having been in storage for a number of years the car would probably now benefit from aesthetic refurbishment as the older repaint is now showing its age, and the leather in the seats has now lost its tautness.

Recently the car has been subject to a pre-auction inspection and service by marque specialists Bell Classics to insure the car is in good order all round.

The car is presented with a good history file, including many past invoices, however the Service Book is currently missing, although the current owner hopes to find it by the time of the sale. Past MoTs are present including its most recent MoT which is valid until April 2017.

Dry-sumped 308GTBs on carburettors are regarded by those who know as the ones to have and this car, with some scope for improvement, is a great opportunity at a realistic guide.