Fantasy Junction

Description

1985 Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole GTS
s/n ZFFUA13A0F0056183
Rosso Corsa with Tan Leather

The all-new Pininfarina designed Ferrari 308 debuted at the 1975 Paris Auto Show to enthusiastic acclaim. These were very challenging times in the auto industry, so one can imagine the delight generated when this all new sports car emerged amidst the lackluster offerings of the period. Thankfully Ferrari delivered a refreshing option. Pininfarina designer Leonardo Fioravanti, having already designed many of Ferrari's most celebrated cars including the Daytona, the Dino, and Berlinetta Boxer captured a taut new energy with the 308. Replacing the 246, this Ferrari arrived as a new market maker. The 308 was dramatic and beautiful, quickly becoming a feature of television shows and movies, while shaping public opinion about what a sports car should look and feel like. Although the initial design was limited to a fixed roof configuration, the GTS arrived in 1977, featuring a removable satin black roof panel, which could be stowed in a vinyl cover behind the seats when not in use.

In 1980, the 308 was updated to fuel-injection which allowed for better emissions but at a loss of power, putting out only 202 hp on us models. Well aware of the challenge, Ferrari set about developing a solution to the underpowered offering and two years later (1982) they launched the quattrovalvole. This four-valve per cylinder engine resulted in an increase in horsepower to 232 hp without compromising emission requirements for the all-important US market. Exterior body changes were minor but important, including a new grille sporting rectangular driving lights on each outboard side, a longitudinal hood vent to aid in evacuating warm air, and rectangular front side marker lights.

This beautifully prepared Ferrari 308 quattrovalvole was ordered new in 1985, assembled in February 1985, and delivered to California where it appears to have remained all its life. The Ferrari service booklet shows June 4, 1985 as the first service record at Newport Imports, Newport Beach, CA, followed by July 28, 1986 (also at Newport), March 3, 1990 (Costa Mesa), and again in March 1992 also in Costa Mesa. Service records for the car continue from 2015 - May 2017 with copious notations from Patrick Ottis detailing major engine out belt service in May of 2016 (at 64,887 miles), among other works during this two-year period. Other work included changing all filters and fluids, spark plugs and wires, cam cover gaskets, valve adjustments, new Michelin tires, a coolant system overhaul, A/C service and replacement of parts as needed. In 2017 (miles recorded on invoice 65,104) the engine was removed to facilitate additional mechanical work including a new crank position sensor, eight new Bosch injectors, and various other details as needed including new spark plugs, and new injector seals. Today the car boasts 65,257 miles since new. Over the past year the current owner has spent close to $10,000.00 to ensure the car is in sound mechanical condition.

Today the car presents as a very nice original example overall. The paint is in very good condition with excellent gloss, appearing to be the original Rosso Corsa as applied from the factory. Although some minor road chips are noted at the front of the car, the remainder of the body is in very good condition throughout. The hood and trunk open and shut smoothly, displaying very nice fit and even gaps. Doors also open and shut without issue. The black trim remains in good condition with no major flaws or notable warpage due to excessive heat exposure. Emblems and badges are in excellent condition throughout the car. The roof and rear deck spoiler are in good condition with just minor fading evident to the roof panel. Wheels and tires are in excellent condition, showing no curb rash or damage to the surfaces or lug nuts. Fewer than 1,000 miles have accumulated since the new Michelins were installed last year. The glass appears to be original and in excellent condition as are the various window gaskets, black trim for the side vents and engine cover, as well as all lenses and lighting appearing very nice to excellent overall. While it is evident this car has been driven, this example is surprisingly well cared for given the miles it has covered.

The tan leather interior has a nice feel to it both visually and when seated inside. Lightly worn, but favorably tinted from use, the leather has a comfortable feel to it, accented against the black trim and dash. Carpeting shows some areas of wear, in keeping with the miles shown, but not worn or heavily soiled to detract from an otherwise nice interior. Instruments and steering wheel are in very good to excellent condition with no fading or unusual wear. The removable top comes off and attaches easily, stowing in the factory case behind the seats, making for both open and closed cruising without the hassle of a soft top.

The engine compartment has benefited from the engine service recently performed not only to tend to mechanical details but for cleaning and reconditioning while the engine was out. The engine and surrounding compartment remains original without significant modifications and is quite nicely preserved. The matching red intake plenum sits atop the 32-valve V8, proudly boasting the cast aluminum heads and matching red ignition wires. Factory finishes and original data plates, coded stickers, and warning labels are all in place. The spare tire sits snugly inside the front tub, which appears to be in excellent condition showing no cracks or excessive scratches. The underside of the car is tidy, clean, and without notable damage. Some evidence of road use is present and in keeping with the mileage shown on the odometer, but overall the car is solid and supports the thoughtful ownership and maintenance performed on the car.

The car starts easily, idling smoothly and evenly in part due to the recent service and careful considerations given to the fuel injection, ignition system, and all 32 valves. Driving this 308 one is reminded of how significant the improvement was in the quattrovalvole when compared to nearly any other 308 in the series. This model 308 is not only impressive for the power and smooth delivery via fuel injection, but with the quattrovalvole, one is truly experiencing the best iteration of the 308 with a well-balanced chassis, improved suspension, 16” wheels, and of course open coachwork without compromising structural rigidity. Power comes on smoothly and shifting is very comfortable via the 5 speed gated shifter and smooth clutch pedal. All transmission synchros are in excellent order, up and down, both when warm and cold. Braking is quite good even when coming down from high speeds. Most impressively, the 32-valve engine delivers reliable bursts of energy without the fussiness often presented with carbureted cars. Even the A/C blows frigid cold.

The car comes with a factory tool roll, tools, owner’s leather folio with manual and service booklet, and a spare set of floor mats. Records for recent service work performed by Patrick Ottis are also included with the car.

This desirable 308 quattrovalvole GTS has benefited from proper care and recent service, having been driven as intended but thoughtfully cared for. The accolades delivered on this series Ferrari are instantly confirmed once behind the wheel - enjoying the power and performance capabilities from one of the best combinations offered in the history of the Ferrari 308.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608