The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole, affectionately called "the 308 QV," is an iconic piece of automotive history. The 308 QV is a head-turner with a luscious Pininfarina-styled body and a roaring 240-horsepower engine under the hood. In today's market, you can expect a well-maintained example to command a price ranging from $60,000 to $90,000, depending on the condition and mileage. The 308 QV was available in two trim levels: the GTB, a gorgeous fastback-styled coupe, and the GTS, a Targa-top variant for those who desire the wind in their hair. Both trims exude the timeless appeal of classic Italian design and engineering prowess. Here's our in-depth Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole review, where we'll cover many aspects of this excellent ride, from its history to the interior, exterior, and engine specifications. Let's begin with its history.
The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole's story began in the early 1980s when Ferrari sought to create a more powerful and refined version of the 308 GTB. By 1980, Ferrari fitted the 308 GTB with a carbureted engine for a better driving experience, leading to the 308 GTBi. Stricter emission regulations came knocking within that period. To comply, Ferrari developed a fuel injection system for their 308 GTBi in 1982, returning to its smoother, more refined character. This potent new version was christened the 308 GTB Quattrovalvole. It saw the introduction of its defining feature: four valves per cylinder, an advancement that increased power and responsiveness along with a five-speed gearbox, further enhancing its performance and drivability. The 308 GTB's pop culture ascension reached its zenith in 1984 when it became the signature car of Tom Selleck's iconic Thomas Magnum in the hit TV series "Magnum, P.I." The red Quattrovalvole, tearing through the Hawaiian landscape, became synonymous with adventure, glamour, and the carefree spirit of the 1980s. The 308 GTB's production ended in 1985, succeeded by the 328 GTB. Two versions of the 308 QV were made available to car enthusiasts - the GTB and the GTS. The GTB, with its fixed-roof coupe design, was perfect for those who craved an intense, immersive driving experience, while the GTS, with its removable roof panel, catered to those who loved the thrill of open-air driving. In terms of production, the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole enjoyed a four-year run from 1982 to 1985. In that period, 748 units of the GTB model and 3042 units of the GTS model were produced, making these cars beautiful and relatively rare. Their limited numbers add to their allure and desirability among Ferrari enthusiasts and collectors.
Nestled in the rear of the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole is a 3.0-liter V8 engine that produces 240 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. This magnificent beast of a machine, with its four-valve per cylinder configuration (hence the 'Quattrovalvole' tag), is a marvel of engineering and a testament to Ferrari's legacy of creating high-performance power units. As you turn the key in the ignition, the car comes to life with a deep, throaty growl that slightly increases in pitch when you push the accelerator. The power delivery is smooth, the engine's response is immediate, and the noise levels are just right. In terms of performance, the 308 QV goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds and boasts a top speed of 150 mph. It's not just about speed and performance, though. The 308 QV offers a refined and smooth driving experience, with the engine and 5-speed manual transmission working perfectly. As for fuel economy, you'll likely get an average of 15 miles per gallon, which is respectable considering its performance stats and the era in which it was built. Reliability-wise, the 308 QV's engine is solid. Regular maintenance and care are necessary, as with any classic car. Once that's taken care of, the engine will serve you faithfully. Compared to other vehicles in its category, such as the Porsche 911 SC of the same era, the Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole stands out for its performance, style, and exclusivity blend. While both are reliable, the Ferrari 308 QV takes things slightly higher with its performance and desirability. The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole has its challenges. The timing belts require regular attention and may be costly to maintain. The engine's complex design can make repairs and part replacements tricky and expensive for the inexperienced. But, for those who appreciate the allure of a classic Ferrari, these are minor trade-offs.
Upon settling into the surprisingly comfortable and supportive bucket-style seats, you're greeted by a classic three-spoke MOMO steering wheel. The large, easy-to-read Veglia Borletti analog gauge clusters further confirm your journey into yesteryear. The car's analog gauges sit within easy sightlines, ensuring that crucial vehicle information is always available at a glance. Controls for the vehicle's essential functions are logically laid out, with the most critical switches housed within the center console. Coated with a soft-touch matte finish, the console hosts the controls for power windows and air conditioning, among others. The practicality continues with the storage space of the center console, a rare commodity in sports cars of this era. The dashboard is covered in hand-stitched leather that is nicely laid out. It blends well with the door panels that host the classically styled door handles. The cabin's standout feature might be the iconic gated shifter, an intricate piece of machinery that reminds one of Ferrari's commitment to engaging driving experiences. While the 308 QV delivers an exhilarating driving experience, it doesn't completely ignore the comfort part. Noise levels inside the cabin are moderate, as there's a blend of engine roar and road noise. The seats offer a degree of adjustability, allowing for a more personalized and comfortable driving position. Unfortunately, the QV isn't entirely without its drawbacks. With many high-end finishes, some plastic elements in the cabin feel out of place in a car like the Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole.
The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole's exterior overall design carries the signature styling cues of Pininfarina, the renowned Italian car design firm known for its collaborations with Ferrari. Beginning with the front, the QV showcases a low, wide stance with a plunging nose and distinctive pop-up headlights. These headlights provide ample illumination while seamlessly blending into the car's aerodynamic lines when not in use. The minimalist grille is wide and low-set, subtly adorned with the iconic prancing horse emblem. On the car's hood, you'll find noticeable vents that are a distinguishing feature of the 308 QV. They both serve aesthetic and functional purposes. Turning to the side profile, the Ferrari 308 GTB QV reveals its elongated, swooping lines that scream speed and performance. The doors open wide, providing easy access, with only a minimal sill to step over. The door handles are flush with the body, maintaining the car's sleek profile. The 308 QV's balance on the road is impeccable, thanks to its well-chosen wheelbase and precise weight distribution. It rides on 16-inch alloy wheels that provide excellent grip and traction. To the end of the rear glass on the driver's side is the gas cap tucked underneath the black striped cover. And as we've seen on the 308 GTB from 1975, the door handle is a small black lever. The exterior mirrors are manually adjustable, offering a clear view of the road behind. At the rear, the QV features a slotted engine cover. The tail lights, nestled under a subtle spoiler lip, are a simple and elegant dual-circle design accompanied by the classic dual exhausts. The trunk at the front could be more generous in space. Its narrow opening and shallow depth suit it best for light luggage. One thing to note about the trunk on the 308 QV is that the hood hinges have a release button on the struts that you need to press to close the hood. Forcing the hood close can bend it.
In keeping with its era, the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole is not brimming with technology like modern sports cars. However, the technology it does feature is purposeful and adds to the car's character. The QV is fitted with a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, a significant advancement in the 80s, which enhanced the engine's performance and reliability while ensuring smoother, more efficient fuel delivery. Another hallmark feature of the QV is its analog gauges, which, while not technologically advanced, add a vintage touch to the car and provide crucial information directly to the driver. Additionally, this car is fitted with air conditioning, a luxury during its time, ensuring a comfortable drive in warmer climates. The car's pop-up headlights are unique, too, and are automatically controlled, popping up when needed and retracting to maintain the car's sleek profile when not in use. The QV was one of the early adopters of anti-lock braking systems (ABS), thus enhancing the braking performance and safety. While the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole may not be a tech-laden machine by today's standards, its technology was impressive enough.
The 308 GTB Quattrovalvole market has steadily risen in recent years, fueled by increasing collector demand and a limited supply of well-maintained vehicles. According to Classic.com's Car Valuation Tool, the average price of a Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole currently sits around $123,650, with a range of $63,000 to $270,000 depending on factors like mileage, condition, maintenance record, etc. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to sell your 308 QV, or any other car for that matter, you should head over to ExoticCarTrader.com
The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole is a fantastic car to drive and own. With its sleek contours, roaring mid-mounted V8 engine, pleasurable and comfortable interior, and smooth gear mated to a dog-leg five-speed gear shifter, it will make you smile when you drive it down the road. No Ferrari or classic car enthusiast will turn down an excellent offer to purchase one of these or other cars from a Ferrar listing, especially when the team of experts at Exotic Car Traders is part of the process.
If you're captivated by the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole's charm, consider adding it to your collection. ExoticCarTrader.com simplifies the buying and selling of cars, making it a seamless experience for all parties involved. They ensure a transparent, hassle-free process, from handling inquiries to managing paperwork. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, Exotic Car Trader stands ready to help you navigate the journey of owning or selling a classic like the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole!
Admired from afar or experienced from behind the wheel, the Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole leaves a pleasant mark. It demands commitment and financial resources for maintenance and rewards patient owners with a blend of performance, luxury, and an undeniable connection to automotive history.
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