Dino 308 GT4

Why it matters

Presented at the 1973 Paris Motor Show, the 308 GT4 was Ferrari’s first production V8 road car and its first—and only—series-production model styled by Bertone. Marcello Gandini’s sharply folded wedge replaced the 246’s curves with a compact 2+2 form whose 2,550 mm wheelbase provided two small rear seats without compromising the mid-engined layout. The transversely mounted 2,927 cc Tipo F106 AL V8 used four twin-choke Weber carburetors to produce 255 hp in European specification, driving through a five-speed manual transaxle. Independent double-wishbone suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and testing input from Niki Lauda contributed to its celebrated handling. Early cars carried Dino badging; Ferrari emblems were adopted during 1976 as the model gained recognition. Approximately 2,826 examples were produced through 1980, establishing the V8 bloodline that became central to Ferrari’s identity.