Fantasy Junction

Description

1988.5 Ferrari 328 GTS
VIN ZFFXA20A9J0078800
Rosso Corsa with Tan Leather Interior

One of the last Ferraris engineered and launched during Enzo Ferrari's lifetime, the 328 succeeded the highly popular 308 for the 1986 model year featuring an increased displacement V-8 and a host of detailed improvements throughout. The mid-engine 328, offered in both hardtop (GTB) and Targa/Spider (GTS) variants, featured an upgraded 3.2-liter V-8 engine with 270 horsepower, and a sophisticated Marelli electronic ignition system with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. The body design was freshened with new door handles and blended front and rear fascias both of which featured body color bumpers, creating a fluid and integrated body design. The interior was significantly reworked as well, with a new switch gear, revised dashboard, and improved door trim. Production of the 328 ceased in the fall of 1989, marking the end of the transverse mid engine Ferraris, originating with the 246 Dino.
Today, 328s are revered for their blend of performance and comparable reliability, coupled with their ease of servicing, especially since the engine does not need to be removed to perform a belt service.

This particular GTS is a documented 30,000 mile mid-1988 year example. The 1988 year featured a series of important changes that ushered in the 1989 model year, hence creating the rare 1988.5 variant, beginning with serial number 76626. Ferrari proceeded to improve the cars this year with changes while assembling customer cars. Post 76626 serial number 1988 cars feature convex wheels and upgraded suspension, commonly thought to have been for ABS only cars, at this time, a rarely selected option that would become standard in 1989. The modified suspension offered new geometry in the front and sway bars in the rear, necessitating a change in design from the former concave wheels to the newer convex type, which are not interchangeable due to the specialized offset of the uniquely improved suspension. Other changes in the mid model year include the addition of side view mirror emblems, rubber gasket trim around the exterior door handles, a gas strut for the hood, and the relocation of the interior door release to the armrest.

This 1988.5 328 GTS was purchased new from Classic Italia, Inc. in Richardson, TX on December 20, 1988. William Blotnick, the first owner, purchased the car at the Texas dealership then moved to Florida where he retained and serviced the car until selling it with approximately 15,000 miles in 2000 to the second owner, a California resident who spent time in both the San Francisco Bay Area and the San Diego area. In 2012, with 27,000 miles, the car was purchased by the third and current owner, who has continued careful maintenance just as the two previous owners have so carefully done. In February 2017 with 29,632 miles, the car was serviced by experts at Bobileff Motor Car Company, San Diego, CA including a complete belt service, ignition service, water pump, valve shims, new stub axle and bearings, and an A/C Freon charge. Copious service records accompanying the car (including several invoices also from Bobileff) show regular maintenance, a previous belt service, clutch cable replacement, bearing replacement, several oil and filter changes, and several annual smog certificates. A 2018 Carfax confirms the reported mileage (currently showing 30,007) and ownership history, further verified by numerous service records retained with the car.

Today this late model Ferrari 328 GTS presents beautifully. The glossy Rosso Corso paint has excellent luster and is free from major blemishes other than a few small nicks at the front of the car and very minor swirl marks in a few places. The body is straight, the panels fit, and all openings operate smoothly. The finish has been checked with a digital paint meter showing readings ranging from 3.5 – 7 microns on most panels. The trim and emblems are in essentially new condition including the flexible black chin spoiler. The glass and lights are excellent across the board, as are the various black trims, and rear spoiler. The five star cast wheels are in very good condition with excellent glossy silver finish and correct center emblems. The exterior visual condition is in keeping with the documented low mileage supporting the known and dedicated ownership.

The interior is in original condition with a very pleasing finish and tidy detailing. The leather seating surfaces are clean and taut, but showing areas of creasing primarily on the drivers left side seat bolsters typically seen even on cars with mild use. The carpeting appears to be original with slightly discolored areas and mild wear in the driver’s foot box and rocker sill. The finishes covering the console, dashboard, and doors, are excellent overall, properly detailed and preserved. The instruments and switches are like new and function as expected. The removable top retains a beautiful semi-gloss textured finish and the protective top cover is in place, correctly situated behind the driver and passenger seats.

The engine compartment is clean and, while not overly detailed, represents proper care and use. Having never been restored, the engine compartment and engine retain factory components, correct hardware, and largely original finishes, displaying original factory plates and labels. The rear trunk compartment is immaculate, with excellent carpet and tightly fitting zipper cover with smooth operation. The front compartment is equally impressive, being extremely clean, offering an essentially new appearance. The correct space saver tire is present, and the plastic liner tray is preserved as new. The underside of the car is pleasantly preserved, showing no evidence of structural compromise, reflecting the low miles accumulated since new.

The car runs and drives beautifully, starting easily and settling into a smooth idle. The gearbox works well, with good synchromesh even when cold, engaging noticeably more power than the 308, delivering power and pleasure confirming more than a decade of improvements since the 308 model launched new. The brakes are effective with good bite and nice linear action. The steering and front suspension is extremely tight and solid, which inspires confidence and contributes significantly to the overall driving experience. A large file boasting service records since new, ownership books and factory pouch, jack and factory bag, a set of tools with factory wrap, accessory light, car cover and cover bag accompany the car.

This is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a low mileage, nicely maintained Ferrari 328 GTS. Well documented and beautifully preserved, this car looks and drives as one might expect a low mileage original example to perform. This final iteration 328 is ready to enjoy, show, or preserve just as the previous enthusiast owners have carefully done since new.

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.

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