Ferrari 308 GTB
The Ferrari 308 GTB is perhaps the most recognizable Ferrari ever made, thanks largely to Tom Selleck driving a GTS (targa) in the television series Magnum P.I. But the 308's appeal goes far beyond TV fame. Designed by Pininfarina's Leonardo Fioravanti, the 308 GTB was a near-perfect exercise in automotive proportion: a mid-engine V8 coupe with sharp, clean lines that have aged beautifully. The 2.9-litre transverse V8 produced 255 bhp in European four-carburetor form, revved to 7,700 rpm with a glorious mechanical symphony, and drove through a beautiful gated five-speed manual. The earliest GTBs had fiberglass bodies (like the Dino 246) before switching to steel in 1977, and these rare fiberglass cars are highly prized. The driving experience was quintessentially Italian: loud, dramatic, slightly impractical, but bursting with character. The carbureted versions are most desirable, as the later fuel-injected GTBi (1980) and Quattrovalvole (1982) models gained emissions equipment and weight. The 308 series proved that Ferrari could build a reliable, relatively affordable sports car in volume, establishing the 'V8 baby Ferrari' lineage that continues through the 328, 348, 355, 360, 430, 458, 488, and F8 Tributo.
Fiberglass-bodied cars (pre-1977) are most valuable. Carbureted cars next most desirable. Body and chassis rust on steel cars. Cam belt service is critical (expensive). Gated shifter adds massive character. Buy the best you can afford — cheap 308s cost more in maintenance.
308 GTB Coupe and GTS Targa. Early fiberglass body (712 cars) then steel. Carb (1975-80), GTBi/GTSi fuel injection (1980-82), QV Quattrovalvole (1982-85). About 12,000 total across all variants.