1978 Ferrari 308 GTB |

Closed Auction- Unsold

1978 Ferrari 308 GTB

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Mileage~87,614
TransmissionManual
Engine2.9L
LocationBirmingham

AUCTION CLOSED

1978 Ferrari 308 GTB

Introduction

Paul Wright

Professional Consigner

A classic Italian sports car that embodies the elegance and performance of late-1970s Ferrari design.

Introduced as part of the 308 series, the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) featured a sleek, Pininfarina-styled body with a low, aggressive stance and signature curves that made it an instant icon. Early GTBs were notable for their fibreglass bodywork, though by 1978 Ferrari had transitioned to steel construction — which is what this car is — adding some weight but improving durability. Powered by a mid-mounted 2.9-litre V8 engine with four twin-choke Weber carburettors, the car delivered around 255bhp in European specification, providing a thrilling driving experience with a top speed of approximately 155mph. The engine was mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, offering a direct and engaging connection to the road. With its classic gated shifter, balanced chassis, and timeless styling, the 1978 Ferrari 308 GTB remains a beloved example of Maranello’s craft, sought after by collectors for its purity, analogue charm, and link to the golden era of Ferrari road cars.

This desirable 1978 example is one of just ~211 RHD UK cars and only one of 23 with a factory deep front spoiler option. It comes to market from ~13.5 year ownership, and had an engine rebuild in the 90s, ~10,000 miles ago. It has documented restoration of the bodywork ~2002, which included some replacement panels and back to metal paintwork as required, re-finished in "Rosso Corsa". These V8's make an intoxicating sound, take a look at the detail below.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting John the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I’ve owned many wonderful cars over the years, but this is a difficult one to part with.

John is no stranger to Italian sports cars, having owned many different types over the years, and thanks to his career as a high-end mechanic for a race team, working on Ferraris is second nature — and something which John has enjoyed both in and out of work hours.

With a decision to thin down his collection, this stunning Ferrari 308 GTB will be sadly missed, but it’s a pretty much dead cert that the next custodian will have the immense pleasure of owning this Italian icon. John will be on hand to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

John

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

There can only be one colour for a Ferrari — which is the iconic Rosso Corsa.

Wheels and Tyres

The 308 is fitted with upgraded 17" Compomotive split-rim wheels, with a polished lip and silver centre. These are in good condition and have no corrosion to the faces. There is a matching set of Yokohama tyres fitted, which have plenty of tread remaining.

Please see the image gallery for detailed shots.

Bodywork

The bodywork on the Ferrari is in excellent condition, with no dings or dents spotted, and the panel gaps are matching. The car is also one of just 23 with a factory deep front spoiler. As mentioned, the car underwent photographed bodywork restoration in ~2002.

High-resolution images and videos have been provided — please review all media to assess the car’s condition thoroughly.

Paint

Finished in "Rosso Corsa", the paintwork is in great condition thanks to a restoration in 2002. There are a couple of small blemishes, but nothing which jumps out.

Images have been taken from multiple angles to give a realistic impression of the car, as if you were viewing it in person. Please take the time to examine these high-resolution images and videos to assess the condition.

Glass and Trim

The windows are in good condition with no noticeable scratches, and all of the window seals appear in good order with no perishing present.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

A beautiful tan leather interior graces the cabin of the 308.

Seats and Carpets

The 308's seats are thought to have been retrimmed, possibly during the restoration. They are finished in tan leather, which still smells fantastic when you open the door. The piping on the driver’s side has a small amount of wear, but other than that, both seats are excellent.

Both door cards are finished in the same leather and are also in excellent condition, with no damage. The carpets are said to have been replaced, and these are in good order with no signs of excessive wear.

Dashboard

With a black leather dashboard, this is free from damage. The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows a reading of ~87,614 miles.

Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

John has fitted an Alcantara MOMO Prototipo steering wheel, which is in excellent condition. Should the new keeper wish to revert to the original, this is included with the sale.

The gated shifter is just the icing on the cake, the gear stick in good condition with minimal signs of wear. Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Like a V8 symphony, blending Italian passion with pure, naturally aspirated muscle!

Engine and Gearbox

2.9-litres of Italian engineering grace the engine bay of the 308 GTB. With the flick of the key, the V8 fires into life, breathing heavily through the ANSA exhaust and sounding absolutely fantastic. It benefits from a new stainless steel exhaust system, a recent belt service, and a brake system overhaul. The engine was rebuilt approximately ~10,000 miles ago, on 02.12.2021 it received a full service and all of the belts were replaced, the carburettor had a basic adjustment too. The car runs as it should, with healthy oil pressure and no issues reported by John.

The five-speed manual dog-leg gearbox is a joy to use, with gears easily selected thanks to the gated shift pattern. Watch the video to see the car in action.

Suspension and Brakes

It’s a Ferrari! So, as you would expect, the handling is fantastic. Over the years, there have been new suspension parts fitted, which are noted in the invoices. The brake master cylinder was replaced on 02.12.2021 too.

On the road, the car handles superbly, with no knocks or bangs coming from the car, and it comes to a stop in a straight line with no issues reported by John. The car has also recently had a brake overhaul with a new master cylinder.

The Drive

Driving the Ferrari 308 GTB is an unfiltered, analogue connection to the road. Its carburetted 2.9-litre V8 sings a raspy, characterful note, especially above ~3,500rpm. Low-speed steering is heavy, but it becomes beautifully communicative once you're moving.

The gated 5-speed gearbox delivers satisfying mechanical shifts, and with its low-slung position and mid-engine balance, the 308 GTB offers pure, engaging Italian driving pleasure.

Electrics and Other

The original switchgear has a small amount of patina, but is working correctly. There is also a period radio cassette, which could possibly be the original.

Unusually, the car comes with its original jack and tool bags. The car is fitted with a Cat 1 alarm system and comes with two key sets.

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History and Paperwork

This car comes to market from ~13.5 year ownership, is a genuine UK RHD, and has had an engine rebuild ~10,000 miles ago, along with body restoration less than ~500 miles ago.

With a comprehensive history file, the 308 appears to have been well cared for, with 20 service stamps and some expensive invoices — some of which include an engine rebuild, restoration parts, and servicing work — all making up the detailed story. The service history dates back to the early 1980s, and there are also a substantial number of previous MOT certificates, helping back up the mileage.

A fantastic opportunity to own an iconic Ferrari which has been well cared for and has spent the past ~13.5 years in the care of a retired Ferrari specialist technician — what better previous keeper could you ask for?

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verification of photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car is not stolen, written off, or subject to outstanding finance.
Please note: This check does not verify mileage.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time — we’ll just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids. Bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win — just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
18.04.2024	MOT	87,596
11.04.2022	MOT	87,990
02.12.2021	Service & Cambelts	87,431
23.12.2015	MOT	87,550
27.05.2014	MOT	87,415
30.04.2013	MOT	87,371
07.09.2011	MOT	87,115
13.07.2010	Service/Cam Belts	87,094
28.05.2010	MOT	87,094
24.02.2006	MOT	87,088
04.08.2000	MOT	87,086
31.03.1999	Service/Cam Belts
11.07.1997	MOT	86,364
13.06.1996	MOT	84,344
13.06.1996	Service	84,340
23.02.1995	Service	81,495
14.09.1994	Service	80,511
09.03.1994	MOT	78,444
25.08.1989	Engine Rebuild
24.07.1989	Service	74,008
17.11.1987	Service	60,545
22.04.1985	Service	52,673
12.07.1983	Service	46,352
29.03.1983	Service	44,159
10.1982	Service	40,705
30.04.1982	Service	37,215
06.08.1981	Service	35,000
14.06.1981	Service
08.04.1981	Service
16.02.1981	Service	27,000
04.07.1980	Service
22.01.1980	Service	13,000
06.04.1979	Service	8,631
24.11.1978	Service	5,854
22.08.1978	Service	2,300
31.05.1978	Service	1,657
11.05.1978	Service	542