need help pulling trigger on 308gtb

I'm not 308 expert but having driven both I'd personally say the 85 sounds like the one to go for.

 

early 308GTB'S are going to continue to appriciate and are a blast to drive. the QV already has issues. buy the 1977 gtb. yes i have one for sale so i am prejudiced!

 

Get the QV. I own one carb 308 and now one QV and it is an 85. Get the 85 QV.

 

I have owned both types and the QV should not feel slow in comparison which makes me suspicious this particular QV may not be up to snuff. If you think you really want a carb car, this may be it, although the price sounds a bit high. However, really cherry carb 308's are getting difficult to find.

Dave

 

I´ve owned one of each.... a black & tan 77 GTB and a black & black 84 QV. The 77 was as reliable as could be once set up properly. Sounded better to drive, but I didn´t ever think it was quicker than the QV. It was faster, however. The QV had a better AC, looked cool with the 16" wheels, seemed to handle hot days better (even at 100 deg F it was OK), seemed to be more rust resistant also from what I´ve heard. Both were California cars... the 77 had 50K on it when I bought it and 62K when I sold it, the QV 56K on it and 59K when I sold it. It depends on what you want to do. Drive every day? QV. Drive on weekends and hear the webers? 77. I would not buy a 78-79 carb model or one of the two valve FI cars..... they are SLEDS.

 

As a daily driver, the QV is a bit more civilized. But the rawness of the early carb cars makes them really special. If you are buying a 308 for speed, you are buying the wrong Ferrari model! I love my '77 GTB...what sound! But the QV is generally more refined if you are going to drive it a lot. Mine is a fair weather pleasure car.

Birdman

 

I would get a compression test on the QV with the oil issue. And if that checks out, get the QV, it is a great car.

 

I vote 77 GTB. Mine rocks.......

Greg

 

Just a couple of thoughts. The 16K on a '77 isn't necessarily a good thing. When cars sit, unused, seals and gaskets tend to dry out and become brittle. And things rust, inside and out. You might find when you start driving the car regularly that you develop leaks and that hidden stuff starts giving you problems.

The oil streaks on the QV may or may not be a problem. Could just be someone who was messy when adding/changing oil. Or could be a simple gasket that needs changing. Or not. Probably a good idea to trace the source down before you jump. Also, check the records on when it last had a major service and have someone verify that the belts are in good condition.

For me, the deciding factor would probably be the roof -- B vs. S. I'd take the S targa top over the B coupe anytime. My $.02.

 

My vote would be for the 77....nothing beats the sound of carbs!

 

BillyD,
From your description, I think you made the right choice, but I am prejudiced towards hardtops. They are better cars.

Congrats,
Dave

 

Bill,

Good luck on your purchase, hope the PPI comes back with positive news!

I see by your profile that you live in Tacoma. There are many carb 308 GTB/GTS owners in the Seattle/Tacoma area.

You should consider joining the FCA and participating in our local drives/events.

Gary
Seattle

PS: Regarding 308 parts: "Alfa of Tacoma" sells parts at their shop in downtown Tacoma. www.alfaoftacoma.com or, Ferrari of Seattle www.ferrariofseattle.com

There are also LOTS of sources for 308 parts online.
Look at:http://70.85.40.84/~ferrari/forum/showthread.php?t=28256