I've very recently bought a 308 GT4, my first Ferrari, and I'm still getting to know it. I have the Vitaloni Californian mirrors fitted on both sides, but they're both different and I don't know which one is the correct style. The mirrors appear to be the same, but the base that fastens to the door is different. The driver's side has the broader section towards the rear, whereas the passenger side mirror has the broader section towards the front. However, the rubber gasket for the driver's side appears to be for the same style as the passenger side. The driver's side style seems to be the one most widely available, but I prefer the look of the passenger side, so which one is period correct? Thanks, Paul Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
I'll leave the definitive answer to the experts... However, as I'm nearing restoration of my car, I needed to get the correct mirror for my '77 euro and noted the exact differences you mention based on new manufacture Cali mirrors and the originals. Based on what I have learned, and I hope I'm not wrong, your left side mirror is original and the right side mirror is a new/repro over the stock old gasket. The more squarish, blunted front edge of the base on your left hand mirror is consistent with old stock originals (one of which I recently purchased for my car). I also would really like one of our more experienced brothers to chime in though. I like your left mirror way better. Hence why I hope I'm right!
Your left hand side mirror does not appear to have the original base. Hannibal308's picture is the original base and mirror. The base on your right hand mirror looks original but the mirror does not. It looks like someone may have switched the mirror on base.
When you say "base", are you referring to the rubber gasket or the solid mount that the mirror hinges from? The RH mirror may look a bit odd because it has been repaired around the hinge using some cable ties, which are actually working quite well. But that's why I'm looking for a replacement. I suspect, as does Hannibal308, that the LH mirror is period correct as it matches the rubber gaskets used on both sides, and also the one that he's bought. I've just realised that I referred to the driver's and passenger sides without stating that the car is RHD. Paul
Correct me if I'm wrong but pretty sure there were no door mirrors fitted to these models when they originally left the factory and most are an after sales install. So not techincally factory "original" as such. As long as both sides match the choice would be down to you as to which base to have. The overall mirror style is period suitable.
I think we are looking at different years production, as both appear to be Vitalonis.. *shrugs shoulders* I guess a pair of new ones would "match" each other, as the old plastic degrades with age and UV, so I don't think, in this case New Old Stock gets you much......
Where is the current source of the Californians? Cant seem to locate them. anyone have any recent experience? Thanks Rob
Please excuse the temporary hijack, but I'm looking for a set of Cromodora Astros if anyone knows of a source. Thanks.
I know ReOriginals here in Texas carries them. They are also a OEM on Ducatis, so try a dealer there also.
I'm still betting the one on the left side was put on originally or very early in the car's life. The right one was likely put on much later but on the original gasket. I actually looked at dozens of period 308 photos to conclude which mirror base shape was correct. The discussion is half the fun! Best.
These people seem to be amongst the cheapest: Buy Vitaloni California Mirror Online | Europa Specialist Spares Paul
For the UK: Before August 1st 1978 first use of passenger vehicles only one rear view mirror was manadated (any one of interior or two exterior). Goods vehicles had to have two mirrors. After August 1st 1978 the requirement required two rear view mirrors one of which had to be on the drivers side. I believe that having three mirrors is still not mandatory in the UK for pax vehicles but if they were original equipment then they should be in place or the police could possibly stop you under "construction and use" regs.
I can confirm originally the cars came with one mirror. When I did my car in 1999 the driver side had a plate to hold the mirror on the driver's door. This plate has 3 holes. The center one is to hold the plate to the door with a center screw. The two outer holes are threaded for the mirror screws. The passeger side mirror was just in place with 2 metal screws in the door panel.
My comments are based upon my 1979 that has the same mirror. You RH base is identical to my drivers side (LH) and to Hannibal308's picture. There could be some minor differences over the year as noted. Here are a few pictures of my one mirror. The plastic is quite oxidized and probably a little dirty too. http://www.bdei.com/308/DSC_0006.JPG http://www.bdei.com/308/DSC_0007.JPG http://www.bdei.com/308/DSC_0008.JPG
My RH base is the same as your base, but it isn't the same as Hannibal's. His base is the same as my LH base. Having done some further investigating, there is a copy of the Vitaloni Californian mirror being produced by Ricambi that appears to have the same base as Hannibal's and my LH mirror: *FRP*SPECCHIO ESTERNO DX mod. CALIFORNIAN outer mirror | eBay These are extremely cheap, but I have no idea about the quality. Paul
The base looks more sturdy, the original are pretty thin. I am sure others on FChat have purchased them and hopefully one or more will reply.
Please provide a photo of the 4mm x .7 screw to hold original mirror in place. I am working towards a preservation level classication. Thanks, Richard
