308GT4 purchase advice

If the engine and transmission rebuild was done right, this is a major asset for the car. Having had a 78 308 with 55k miles that started developing transmission trouble (syncro wear - trouble engaging 3rd and 2nd), at least in that car's case, it was a weak point. Rebuild is a big deal, involving pulling the engine, and lots of labor for the tranny.

You need to inquire about more details about the rebuild. Find out how much it cost and get a parts list of what was used.

The "rear wing" is subtle, not horrible, but not original either. Engine does look very clean with new painted cam covers.

Looks like an aftermarket (non original) steering wheel.

My biggest fear in getting a 308 GT4 would be engine and tranny wear. If that's been addressed, your sailing will be smoother. There will always be little things but that's a big one. Get more details on it.

--Mike

 

If the car spent a lot of time in the north east, beware of RUST.

 

Isn't the auction over?

What I would do is find out if anybody on this board is familiar with the shop. See what people think of the shop, see if they have a good reputation, etc.

Good luck.

 

James,
I haven't owned a 308 GT4, but I would defintitely buy one if I stumbled on one. They have a reputation for being really great driving cars. Many people think better than 308's. The early ones had more power due to fewer emission controls. Pre 78's had no cats. Passing CO emissions should be no problem for a proper running car w/o mods.

Now comes the hard part. They have been unloved and cheap for so long, most owners have been unwilling or unable to properly care for one. Maintenance is as much as other similar Ferraris. So, finding a good one will be very difficult.

Dave

 

James

The GT/4 is a great car, it has been stated that it is the best handling of the 308 series cars, and offers the best ride because of the longer wheelbase. I've had mine for allmost 2 yrs now and still love it. Mine now has 51K on her and runs like a top. You may do better to post this question on the 308/328 section because you will get a lot more responces. There are quite a few of us there and I only just caught a glimps your post since it was the latest one from your section and could be viewed from the main menu, other wise I would have never seen it. You may also go to www.ferrariforum.com too, they have some exelent buyers guides you can read there! Keep in mind that the GT/4 is now about 30yrs old, and little things can go wrong like any other car that old (like my windows decided to quit working on me tonight, probably just a fuse or a relay). But all in all they are quite robust and love to be driven. The GT/4 are actually quite rare and are getting harder to find, only 595 imported to the US. And the prices are going up but thier are still a few good deals out there and are getting few and far between. Once you find a good one you like most definately have a PPI done at a Dealership or a reputable mechanic familiar with Ferrari's. Good luck and keep us posted in the main 308 forum.

Cheers

DT

 

NO....

 

Nice looking car.

But right now (IMHO), that price is probably $10K too much for "that" car.

...and I'm biased.

 

Agreed and I'm NOT biased

 

I agree the price is high, but wouldn't it be great for us owners if this was the start of a trend...

Dom

 

Check out the latest Forza magazine for a market update on the GT4 - looks like they're on the way up! -m

 

FYI, I think that you can stop cross posting now...

 

double check the metal for rust, as Ferrari didn't get rust proofing right on the 308 until early/mid 1980s.