1985 Ferrari 208 GTB Turbo

In 1975, Ferrari introduced a 2-litre version of the Dino 308GT4 - the 208GT4 - to take advantage of its home market's vehicle taxation system. The V8 engine was reduced in bore size to 66.8mm (from 81mm) for a capacity of 1,991cc and produced 170bhp at 7,700rpm and this downsized unit continued to power the succeeding 208 GTB model from 1980, although now with a maximum output of 155bhp. In April 1982, at the Turin Motor Show, they introduced a significantly more powerful version, the 208 Turbo, which employed a single KKK turbocharger and Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection. The result of these developments was a dramatic increase in maximum power to 220bhp. This was not far short of the 3-litre 308GTB's 255bhp and the figure was further raised to 254bhp when the model designation changed to GTB Turbo. Bodywork changes included five additional cooling slats beneath the front grille and the adoption of NACA ducts ahead of the rear wheel arches. Matt black vents were fitted directly behind the retractable headlights and a full width vent on the leading edge of the bonnet, while at the rear there was a split bumper with central grille and distinctive quadruple exhaust pipes set in pairs. A total of 437 208 Turbo Coupés had been completed by the time the model's successor arrived in 1986.

This superb example is one of those 437 Coupés and was originally supplied on 1st January 1985 by Crepaldi of Milan, classically presented in Rosso Corsa with a beige interior, to its first excited owner. The Ferrari remained in Italy until its arrival in the UK during April 2019, when it subsequently became the property of John Pogson, well respected Ferrari engineer, racing driver and founder of Italia Autosport, forming part of his Collection to this very day.

It should be underlined at this point that this particular 208 Turbo is most certainly not just another average example, nor has it been restored, in fact it's a totally original and unmolested 208 Turbo that has been preserved throughout from its first factory paint, through to the exceptional interior. Mechanically almost every factory component has been retained and maintained by on of the UK's leading 208 specialists and it's undoubtedly fair to say that this could be the most original example in the country with a warranted recorded mileage at the time of viewing of just 27,686km, which equates to a little over 17,200 miles.

To ensure the vehicle's longevity, every aspect has been checked and maintained as required even down to dismantling the engine, the gearbox and the differential with all components being cleaned and checked prior to reassembly and a clean bill of health being issued. The suspension has been set up by John using his decades of experience preparing these cars for competition or fast road use and we imagine that its road manners will be impeccable. It's also pleasing to note that the original Schedoni luggage remains in place adding to the exclusivity of this outstanding Ferrari. It's accompanied by a comprehensive history file that includes numerous bills and invoices alongside a letter from Tony Willis confirming the 208’s credentials.

With inspection pre-sale always being welcomed and encouraged in this particular instance to fully understand the originality that is so often lost over the years, this is a special opportunity to acquire an exceptional example of a very rare model that is befitting of any discerning 'Prancing Horse' collection.