1979 Ferrari 308 GTS 3.0 from North America

Summary:

The more you're on it, the more it loves you back

Faults:

The alternator developed a short and would drain the battery down overnight.

The timing was off a tooth after I had the timing belts replaced. I drove the car about 3k miles before I decided to investigate the cars running problems. I had the timing problem fixed, and the car runs great now.

General Comments:

This car is awesome! It fits me like a glove, drives great, is quick, and makes great sounds. I bought the car with limited service history, and I think some mods (cams maybe?) have been done to the car. The car was fitted with 16" rims and spacers, and the car handles incredibly.

I recently drove a formula car at Pocono, and this car isn't far off from that. I went from the Ferrari to the formula, and there was almost no adjustment needed to get used to the formula car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th October, 2004

1984 Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole V8 from North America

Summary:

Amazing grace on wheels

Faults:

At 73 miles since I got the car, one of the flywheel sensors went out. The new sensor is only $207 USD, but it took the mechanic over 9 hours to remove and replace it. After tune-up, etc., total cost $1475.00. Ouch under anyone's book.

General Comments:

Aside from the out-of-the-box problem, I really like this car. It's fast--not 60s muscle car fast--but definitely fast. It handles very nicely, as one would expect. It looks like a Ferrari 308--the best looking car on planet earth, period. I like the 1984 model because it has all of the modern conveniences of today's cars (except the on board computer), and yet it gives you beauty with speed and superior handling.

Despite my experience, my Ferrari tech says that the 308 QV is very, very reliable. Parts are really not too expensive, despite what you've heard. But if you cannot service it yourself, you're in for a heartache because nobody works on Ferraris for nothing.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th September, 2004

22nd Jul 2006, 21:04

I have a 1984 QV and I love it!!! The Magnum PI car!!

I just sold a 1969 Ford Torino Cobra--428 CJ--a Muscle car!!

I loved it too, but it doesn't compare to the Ferrari!!!

1977 Ferrari 308 GTB 3.0 V8 from North America

Summary:

Underpriced at the present moment

Faults:

Believe it or not, nothing. I have done all the routine maintenance myself and it is quite easy to work on.

General Comments:

Everything about this car is great. It looks and drives fantastically.

The whole ownership experience is great, the car just feels much more "special" than the 911 I previously owned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th December, 2003

1981 Ferrari 308 GTBi 3 liter V8 from North America

Summary:

A timeless beauty!

Faults:

Lots of time spent looking for and repairing oil leaks.

Parts are expensive.

General Comments:

Beautiful design that turns heads. I think of this car as rolling art. It makes me smile every time I walk into the garage and see it.

This car is not the fastest, but it is no slouch either. It is a kick to drive.

Car best not used as a daily driver. If you aren't wealthy and are an above average street mechanic, this car can be a joy to own and drive. I just finished the 15,000 service. It took several weekends and I spent $750 in gaskets, camshaft seals, tensioner bearings, filters, valve shims, and belts. A shop would charge $2500 - 3000 for this major service.

This car is lots of fun on winding roads, but driving in the city and heavy traffic is a pain. It has a very wide turning radius, making it hard to maneuver in tight parking areas. Poor visibility to the rear as the view is blocked by the rear engine deck sails.

The injected 308 is less troublesome than the carbureted 308s in terms of maintenance.

The best thing about owning this car is... well, it's a Ferrari!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th February, 2003

2nd Jan 2010, 11:01

I agree with main review. These cars are great fun and generally reliable, but one must be prepared to do some mechanic's work. This is actually part of the ownership experience. I restore and ride old Italian sport bikes, and the issues are about the same. Electrics are simple but problematic, and one needs to check all bolts and nuts regularly. Most will find this an unacceptable task and should stick to modern cars.

I have the two valve, injected engine, which some consider as the least desirable, however the injection is much simpler than the Webbers, stays in tune and the two valve head is easier to work with. Some simple exhaust mods free up the hidden power, and you're right back to a happy engine with a great sound.

The styling is one of the most pleasing in the automotive world - a true classic. People can't believe it is 30+ years old. I hope to also acquire an E-type Jag in order to own two of the most visually evocative cars ever made.

Handling is as close to perfect as one could hope for. When pushed hard in a turn, the car goes into a mild understeer that is quite confidence inspiring. Nothing spooky, no trying to swap ends, etc. This brings up the final point - these cars are really big go-carts and like to be driven in a spirited manner (not thrashing). Plodding around town and posing are really not it's gig. Enjoy.