Ferrari 308 GT4 Price, Specs And Top Speed

The Ferrari 308 GT4 represents a pivotal chapter in Ferrari’s storied history, introducing the first production V8 model in the mid-1970s. This model not only debuted Ferrari’s shift towards mid-engine configurations but also set a new benchmark for sports car design and performance. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the 308 GT4’s engineering, design, and driving dynamics, providing a comprehensive analysis of why this car remains a coveted classic among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

A Complete Ferrari 308 GT4 Review

The Ferrari 308 GT4 is a fascinating piece of automotive history that encapsulates the essence of Italian sports car design and engineering from the 1970s. Introduced in 1973, the 308 GT4 was Ferrari’s first production vehicle to feature a mid-mounted V8 engine, a significant departure from the V12 engines prevalent in earlier models. Designed by Bertone, rather than the traditional Ferrari collaborator Pininfarina, the car showcased a more angular, wedge-shaped aesthetic that was distinctively different and ahead of its time.

1. Ferrari 308 GT4 Design and Aesthetics

Exterior Design

The 308 GT4’s design is distinctly different from its predecessors, featuring a wedge-shaped body that was a trendsetter in the 1970s sports car market. The car’s silhouette was sharply contoured with clean, straight lines that emphasized its agility and speed. The front of the car is marked by a sloping nose and pop-up headlights, which enhance its aerodynamic profile, while the flat rear and angular rear window align with the geometric style of the period.

The design also included innovative solutions like the positioning of the radiator in the nose to improve cooling efficiency, while allowing the mid-mounted engine to be more compactly placed towards the center of the car. This layout not only contributed to the vehicle’s dynamic performance but also to its balanced proportions, which were crucial for both aesthetics and handling.

Interior Design

Inside, the 308 GT4 was designed with a focus on functionality and driver experience, typical of sports cars from that era. The interior was relatively spartan compared to luxury-oriented models, with an emphasis on the driving controls and instruments. The dashboard was arranged in a straightforward manner, housing an array of gauges and dials that provided comprehensive feedback to the driver at a glance.

The seats were crafted to offer support and comfort, suitable for spirited driving. Though the 308 GT4 is a 2+2, meaning it has rear seats, these seats are small and more suited for occasional use or short journeys, reflecting the practical limitations of a sporty coupe.

2. Ferrari 308 GT4 Performance 

Here’s a closer look at the performance aspects of the Ferrari 308 GT4:

Engine

The heart of the Ferrari 308 GT4 is its 3.0-liter V8 engine. This was the first time Ferrari had placed a V8 engine in a production car, signifying a significant shift in their engineering direction. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four Weber 40 DCNF carburetors, which was typical for high-performance engines of that era. The engine’s layout and the car’s mid-engine configuration contributed to improved balance and handling, making it a true driver’s car.

Horsepower

The 3.0-liter V8 engine in the 308 GT4 was capable of producing approximately 250 horsepower. This level of power enabled the car to deliver robust performance, combining the agility of a smaller sports car with the muscular power output typical of larger engines. This balance of power and agility was key to its appeal and performance on both road and track.

Acceleration

With its potent engine, the Ferrari 308 GT4 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. This acceleration capacity made it competitively fast for its time, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to combining speed with the refined handling characteristics of a mid-engine layout. The car’s responsiveness and quick acceleration are among the traits most cherished by enthusiasts and collectors.

Top Speed

The top speed of the Ferrari 308 GT4 is around 155 mph (250 km/h). This impressive speed showcases the capabilities of the V8 engine and the aerodynamic design of the car. The 308 GT4 was designed to handle high speeds with stability and ease, making it suitable for both spirited driving on winding roads and performing capably on the racetrack.

Handling and Drive Experience

Your driving experience with the 308 GT4 is further enhanced by its superb handling, largely attributed to the tubular spaceframe based on the Dino 246. The wheelbase is stretched by 2550mm to accommodate the second row of seats without interrupting the rest of the structure.

The vehicle’s suspension is fully independent, featuring double wishbone anti-roll bars, shock absorbers, and coil springs on both axles, delivering a remarkably cushioned and smooth ride. It features a kerb weight of 1150kg, facilitating easy handling and maneuverability. In driving the 308 GT4, you would experience a balanced blend of power, speed, and control, all remarkably represented in one package.

3. Ferrari 308 GT4 Price

When new, the 308 GT4 was more affordable compared to some of Ferrari’s more exotic models, making it an attractive option for those looking to enter the Ferrari ownership experience. Prices at launch were around the mid to high $20,000 range in the United States, adjusted for inflation, this would be around $100,000 to $120,000 today.

Current Market Value

In the current collector car market, the price of a Ferrari 308 GT4 can range broadly:

• Average Condition: Cars in running condition but with higher miles or needing some cosmetic work might range from $40,000 to $60,000.
• Good Condition: Well-maintained examples with decent mileage can range from $60,000 to $80,000.
• Excellent Condition: Fully restored or exceptionally well-preserved models can fetch $80,000 or more, depending on specific factors like originality and historical significance.

4. Technical Specifications of the Ferrari 308 GT4

• Engine Type: 3.0-liter DOHC V8 engine
• Configuration: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
• Fuel System: Four Weber 40 DCNF carburetors
• Horsepower: Approximately 250 hp at 7,700 rpm
• Torque: 209 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Length: 4,300 mm (169.3 in)
• Width: 1,800 mm (70.9 in)
• Height: 1,180 mm (46.5 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,550 mm (100.4 in)
• Weight: Approximately 1,160 kg (2,557 lbs)
• Top Speed: Approximately 155 mph (250 km/h)
• Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.4 seconds
• Chassis Construction: Tubular steel frame
• Front Suspension: Independent, double wishbones, coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar
• Rear Suspension: Independent, double wishbones, coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar
• Braking System: Four-wheel disc brakes
• Body Style: 2+2 coupe
• Designer: Marcello Gandini at Bertone

5. Comparing the 308 GT4 with the 208 GT4

The Ferrari 308 GT4 and 208 GT4 are similar models differentiated mainly by their engines, designed to cater to different markets due to tax regulations:

Engine and Performance

• 308 GT4: Features a 3.0-liter V8, producing 250 horsepower, with a top speed of 155 mph and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds.
• 208 GT4: Comes with a smaller 2.0-liter V8 due to Italian tax laws, producing 170 horsepower, which results in lower top speed and slower acceleration compared to the 308 GT4.

Dimensions and Weight

• Both models share identical dimensions and chassis design, but the 208 GT4 is slightly lighter because of its smaller engine, which offers subtly improved handling.

Overall, the key difference lies in the engine size and resultant performance, with the 308 GT4 being the more powerful and faster of the two, designed for markets without restrictive engine displacement taxes.

6. The 308 GT4 in Popular Culture

The Ferrari 308 GT4 holds a special place in popular culture, although it may not be as prominently featured as some of its Ferrari siblings. Its unique design and Ferrari badge have given it a subtle but memorable presence in the media and among car enthusiasts. Here’s how the 308 GT4 has made its mark:

Film and Television

The 308 GT4 hasn’t starred in blockbuster movies or iconic TV shows as prominently as the Ferrari 308 GTS (famously seen in “Magnum, P.I.”), but it has appeared in various background roles in films and series, typically signifying wealth or a refined taste in cars. Its distinctive, angular design makes it recognizable to car aficionados and can occasionally be spotted in European cinema, where its Italian heritage fits naturally into luxurious or stylish settings.

Automotive Media

The 308 GT4 is frequently featured in classic car magazines and online publications, often highlighted for being an underrated gem in the Ferrari lineage. Its historical significance as the first V8 and first mid-engined 2+2 Ferrari is a point of interest for many articles and discussions, making it a favorite topic for retrospectives on Ferrari’s engineering evolution.

Collector and Enthusiast Circles

Among collectors and enthusiasts, the 308 GT4 enjoys a cult following. Its relatively more accessible price point compared to other classic Ferraris and its significance as a ‘transition model’ in Ferrari’s history make it particularly popular in classic car shows and Ferrari club events. Its design, marked by the departure from Pininfarina to Bertone, is often a topic of debate and admiration, adding to its cultural lore.

Social Media and Online Forums

On platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and car forums, the 308 GT4 is celebrated for its driving dynamics and classic 1970s aesthetics. Owners and enthusiasts often share restoration stories, driving experiences, and maintenance tips, helping to maintain the car’s presence in digital car culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ferrari 308 GT4 street legal?

Yes, the Ferrari 308 GT4, like most GT4 race cars, is street legal. It shares its basic parts and components with the production car model; hence it is suitable for public road driving.

What is the worth of a Ferrari 308 GT4?

The worth of a Ferrari 308 GT4 can greatly vary depending on the model’s condition, mileage, and history. However, as a general guide, the price of a well-maintained Ferrari 308 GT4 can fall within the range of $50,000 to $80,000.

Is a Ferrari 308 GT4 a good buy?

Considering its unique features, innovative design, enduring performance, and significance in Ferrari’s history, buying a Ferrari 308 GT4 can be a wise investment. However, one must be prepared for the maintenance and care required for such a classic car.

How many Ferrari 308 GT4s were produced?

While exact production numbers for the Ferrari 308 GT4 can be a bit elusive, it’s generally accepted that approximately 2,826 GT4 models were produced between 1973 and 1980.

How much horsepower does a Ferrari 308 GT4 have?

For the Ferrari 308 GT4, power outputs varied from 255 hp for early European models, down to 205 hp for late series USA models. For some 2-litre Italian market models, a horsepower of around 180 bhp is claimed.