Lot 312 - 1983 Ferrari 308 GTS Quattrovalvole
| Lot Number | 312 |
| Registration | RHR 541Y |
| Chassis Number | 43447 |
| Odometer reading | 80,200 miles |
| Estimate | £56,000 - £62,000 |
The 308GTB was launched at the Paris Motor Show in 1975 , it was built alongside the 308GT4 and designed as a replacement for the 246 Dino. Designed by Leonardo Fiorvanti, the man who styled some of the most iconic Ferrari's including the Daytona, the new 308 sported a rakish and attractive body which fused classic elements of Ferrari styling with a thoroughly modern design. For the first two years of production, the body of the 308 was produced in fibreglass after which steel was used. The 308 shared a similar tube frame chassis as the original Dino and 308GT4 with four wheel double wishbone independent suspension. The engine was a V8 unit which was positioned behind the driver and transversely mounted with double overhead camshafts and four 40DCNF Weber carburettors, latterly replaced with Bosch K Jetronic mechanical fuel injection. At the 1982 Paris Motor Show, Ferrari launched the 308 quattrovalvole, in GTB and GTS form. The main change from the 308 GTBi/GTSi it succeeded, were the four valves per cylinder—hence its name, quattrovalvole, literally 'four valves' in Italian—which pushed output back up to 240hp restoring some of the performance lost to the emission control equipment. The interior also received some minor updates such as a satin black three spoke steering wheel with triangular centre; cloth seat centres became available as an option to the standard full leather.
This lovely example is presented in Rosso Corsa with cream leather interior, which has just been renewed and looks fabulous. The car was first sold by H. R. Owen in London, it has been continuously serviced and cherished by various owners since its manufacture and includes MoT test certificates dating back to 1986. The GTS is the popular choice due to the Targa roof which, when removed, provides the occupants with the thrill of open top motoring at high speed whilst listening to the howl of the Ferrari V8. Sublime! As beautiful today as it has always been, this particular example in this condition will be much admired.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.