Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS
The Ferrari 328 GTB and GTS, produced from 1985 to 1989, represent the final and most accomplished development of the mid-engine V8 sports car lineage that began with the revolutionary 308 GTB in 1975. Designed by Pininfarina and built at Maranello, the 328 refined the 308's formula with a larger engine, improved aerodynamics, and subtle but effective styling updates that made it one of the most attractive and commercially successful Ferraris of its era.
The designation '328' followed Ferrari's traditional nomenclature: 3.2 liters of displacement and 8 cylinders. The engine was a development of the Tipo F105 V8 that had powered the 308 series, bored and stroked to 3,186cc from the 308's 2,927cc. The result was a significant increase in both power and torque. European-specification cars produced 270 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 224 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm, while US-specification cars with catalytic converters produced 260 horsepower. The engine breathed through Bosch K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection, which provided clean emissions compliance while maintaining the responsive throttle feel that Ferrari owners demanded.
Pininfarina's exterior design was an evolution of the 308's shape rather than a clean-sheet redesign. The most visible changes were a new front bumper with integrated spoiler and fog lights, revised side air intakes, a larger rear bumper with integrated exhaust outlets, and subtly different body-color bumper treatments that gave the car a more integrated, less bolt-on appearance than its predecessor. The overall effect was a car that looked simultaneously familiar and fresh, retaining the 308's iconic proportions while appearing more modern and cohesive.
Two body styles were offered: the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) with a fixed roof and the GTS (Gran Turismo Spider) with a removable targa-style roof panel that could be stored behind the seats. The GTS outsold the GTB by a substantial margin, particularly in the American market where the open-top driving experience was highly valued. This sales pattern mirrored the earlier 308 GTS, which had been immortalized in the television series Magnum, P.I.
The driving experience of the 328 was a marked improvement over the 308. The additional displacement provided more tractable low-end torque, making the car easier and more pleasant to drive in everyday conditions. The engine retained the high-revving character and mechanical symphony of its predecessor, with a glorious exhaust note that sharpened as the tachometer swept past 5,000 rpm. The five-speed transaxle gearbox had a precise, gated shift mechanism that was both tactile and satisfying, requiring deliberate inputs that made every gear change a conscious act.
The chassis, carried over from the 308 with minor revisions to spring rates and damping, provided excellent handling balance. The mid-engine layout gave the car a low polar moment of inertia, resulting in quick turn-in and neutral cornering characteristics. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering was communicative and well-weighted. The ventilated disc brakes at all four corners were adequate for road use though lacked the power of modern systems.
With total production of approximately 7,412 units across both body styles, the 328 was the best-selling Ferrari of its time. This commercial success, once seen as a mark against its collectibility, has been re-evaluated as the market has matured. Well-preserved examples with documented service histories have appreciated significantly, with low-mileage GTB models commanding premiums. The 328 GTS in particular has become a strong value proposition, offering the experience of an authentic mid-engine Ferrari V8 at a fraction of the cost of its rarer stablemates.
The 328 closed a chapter in Ferrari history. Its successor, the 348, moved to a longitudinal engine layout and introduced electronic engine management, fundamentally changing the character of Ferrari's V8 sports car. For many enthusiasts, the 328 remains the last of the 'classic' mid-engine V8 Ferraris, before electronics and increasing complexity altered the relationship between driver and machine.
Cam belt service is critical — the 328 engine is an interference design and belt failure destroys the engine. Service records showing regular 30,000-mile belt changes are essential. Check for sticky dashboard syndrome, a common affliction where the dashboard surface degrades into a sticky residue, costing thousands to repair. GTB models are rarer and increasingly sought after. Inspect the frame for corrosion, particularly in the lower frame rails. Verify the engine timing belt and tensioner condition. Check for oil leaks at cam cover gaskets and at the rear of the engine. Avoid cars with aftermarket modifications. Original tool roll and books add value.
Total production approximately 7,412 units: 1,344 GTB and 6,068 GTS. The GTS significantly outsold the GTB, especially in the US market. US-specification cars had catalytic converters reducing output to 260 hp. ABS became available on later production cars. A turbocharged GTB Turbo variant with 254 hp was sold in Italy only to bypass the country's tax on engines over 2.0 liters.