1979 Ferrari GT4

1979 Ferrari 308 Description

The 308 was the last carburated Ferrari sold in America in 1979. Ferrari only made 328 of the 1979 308 GT4's and of that, only 57 were imported in the US. This one is Serial Number 15016.

The GT4 was a groundbreaking model for Ferrari in several ways: it was the first production Ferrari to feature the mid-engined V8 layout that would become the bulk of the company's business in the succeeding decades, and was the first production Ferrari withBertone(rather thanPininfarina) designed bodywork. Pininfarina was upset by the decision to give cross-town rival Bertone the design, considering all they had done for Ferrari. The styling featured angular lines entirely different from its curvaceous 2-seater brother, theDino 246, and was controversial at the time. Some journalists compared it to the Bertone-designedLancia StratosandLamborghini Urraco, also penned by Marcello Gandini.

From the cockpit the driver sees only the road. It has perfect 360 degree visibility, no blind spots, upright and comfortable seating position, a real trunk, a back seat for soft luggage, and very easy engine access.

Enzo Ferrari himself took a major role in its design, even having a mock-up made where he could sit in the car to test different steering, pedals and cockpit seating positioning.

Specifications

The chassis was atubularspaceframebased on the Dino 246, but was stretched for a 115 inwheelbase to make room for the second row of seats. The suspension was fully independent, withdouble wishbones,anti-roll bars, coaxial telescopicshock absorbersandcoil springson both axles. Niki Lauda helped set up the chassis. Dry weight 2,535 pounds.

The 3.0L (2927cc) V8 was mountedtransversallyintegrally joined with the 5-speedtransaxlegearbox. The engine had analuminium alloyblockandheads, 16-valvesanddual overhead camshaftsdriven bytoothed belts; it produced 240hp in the American version. The induction system used fourWeber40 DCNFcarburetorsthat have 8 barrels.

308 GT4

The Dino308 GT4was introduced at theParis Motor Showin November 1973. The 308 GT4 finally gained the "Prancing Horse" badge in May 1976, which replaced the Dino badges on the hood, wheels, rear panel and the steering wheel. This has caused major confusion over the years by owners, enthusiasts and judges. During the energy crisis at that time many prospective owners were hesitant to buy such an expensive automobile not badged "Ferrari" being confused at the significance of the Dino name. Dino was Enzo Ferrari's son who died in 1956, and his name was to honor his memory on the models it was placed.

It should be noted that the Dino 308 GT4 was the only Ferrari legally imported to the US in 1975, and it was also the year Niki Lauda won the Formula One drivers championship and Ferrari won the constructors title. The GT4 was the only 2+2 Ferrari ever raced with factory support. Total production from 1974-1980 was 2,826 cars, of which 547 were RHD.

This car has had the same owner since 1999, and currently has 16k miles on it. The car has been started and driven regularly, never in the rain. Stored with cover.

Maintenance has been timely and the car has the following appropriate upgrades: (all replaced items are included in the sale)

-16 inch alloy wheels, for better handling and tire selection. 7 inch wide fronts, 8 inch wide rears.

-Single distributor.

-Electronic Ignition. MSD Perfomance ECU and wires.

-ANSA free flow exhaust.

-K&N airfilter.

-Re-jetted carburetors.

-Replaced all fuel lines for ethanol protection.

-Replaced horns. (louder)

-CD Radio, 6 disc player in trunk.

-New front brake pads.

Condition:

Show- Has won trophy's every time shown, including 1st place in last show in 2012.

Paint-Excellent 36+ yard old black, mirror finish, no cracking, waxed with an expensive synthetic blend. Covered when not driven.

Body-Never hit, Small hood dings and nicks consistent with 36 years of driving. No door dings.

Wheels-Perfect, no scratches or curb rash.

Leather- Amazing original front seats, hand rubbed annually. Rears show slight nicks and wear from bags and luggage and kids.

Carpeting- Great original condition.

Glass- No chips.

Spare- Has original Michelin XWX tire that has never been on the ground.

Issues:

Air Conditioner- Not working since 2012, never worked well to begin with. Especially in Texas!

Extra's:

-Trophy's

-Barbie Ferrari

-458 Speciale picture (framed) signed by Ferrari President, Luca de Montezemolo

-Poster (framed) from 1st F1 race at Indianapolis racetrack.

Selling due to health issues. Difficult to get in and out of car, and my reactions are too slow. Perfect car for the next lucky owner.