Image of 1984 Ferrari 308 Gts, sourced from www.broadarrowauctions.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS quattrovalvole is a rolling testament to the allure of Italian engineering and design. Born in Maranello, Italy, this vehicle is the brainchild of the renowned automaker Ferrari. As an evolution of the 308 series that first appeared in 1975, the '84 GTS model boasted a significant upgrade with its four-valve per cylinder engine. This car is not just a mode of transportation; it's a piece of automotive artistry that encapsulates the excitement and innovation of the early '80s supercar scene. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that this model gained fame as the car driven by Tom Selleck in the iconic television series "Magnum, P.I.," cementing its place in pop culture.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the Ferrari 308 GTS is nothing short of breathtaking. Its sleek lines and aggressive stance are products of the masterful work by Pininfarina, an Italian car design firm known for its relationship with Ferrari. The car's silhouette is instantly recognizable, with its low profile, pop-up headlights, and side air intakes that hint at its performance capabilities. Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and sportiness, featuring sumptuous leather and classic Veglia Borletti instruments. The technological advancements for its time include electronic ignition and Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, which were state-of-the-art. The 308 GTS was available in a range of colors, with Rosso Corsa red being one of the most sought-after shades. While it came in both GTB (Berlinetta) and GTS (Spider) body styles, it was the targa-topped GTS version that became iconic.

Historical Significance

The Ferrari 308 GTS quattrovalvole played a pivotal role in defining what a mid-engined sports car could be. It set itself apart from contemporaries with its perfect blend of performance and style, becoming one of Ferrari's most successful models at the time. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it paved the way for future generations of mid-engined V8 Ferraris, leading up to today's F8 Tributo.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the sculpted hood lies a transverse-mounted 2.9-liter V8 engine capable of propelling this prancing horse from 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds, reaching top speeds around 150 mph. The addition of four valves per cylinder improved both power output and efficiency over its predecessors. Handling-wise, drivers often praise the 308 for its responsiveness and agility on winding roads or when tackling sharp corners. The driving experience is visceral; from the symphonic roar of the V8 to the tactile feedback through its gated manual shifter, it connects driver to road in pure analog fashion.

Ownership Experience

The 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS could serve various roles from a weekend joyride machine to a coveted showpiece within a collector's garage. Maintenance requires dedication as with most classic Ferraris; however, due to its relative simplicity compared to modern supercars and strong enthusiast community support, many owners find upkeep manageable. Parts availability is generally good for such an exclusive vehicle.

Fun Facts

Beyond its television fame, the Ferrari 308 holds a special place among enthusiasts for being one of the last V8 models developed before Enzo Ferrari's passing in 1988. While not known for setting speed records, it did set benchmarks for style and desirability. Criticisms often focus on its modest power output compared to today's standards but are usually offset by praise for its pure driving dynamics.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-maintained 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS can fetch anywhere from $50,000 to well over $100,000 depending on condition, mileage, and provenance. Approximately 3,000 units were produced during its run from 1982-1985 (quattrovalvole versions), making it relatively rare but still accessible to serious collectors. As vintage Ferraris continue to climb in value, this model has been appreciating steadily over time.

Conclusion

The 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS quattrovalvole remains an emblematic figure within both automotive history and popular culture. It represents an era where style harmonized with performance to create something truly special on four wheels—a machine that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the globe.

1984 Ferrari 308 GTS Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/6" wide X 2-5/8" long-CB 88Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/6" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair