Ferrari 308 GTBi

Why it matters

Introduced in 1980, the 308 GTBi marked Ferrari’s response to tightening emissions regulations and the drivability demands of a growing international clientele. Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection replaced the carbureted 308 GTB’s four twin-choke Webers, while Marelli electronic ignition complemented the transversely mounted 2,927 cc four-cam V8. European output was approximately 214 hp, delivered through a five-speed gated manual transaxle with a limited-slip differential. Pininfarina’s celebrated fixed-roof body remained essentially intact, but the cabin gained revised seats, instrumentation and a more ergonomic center console. Independent double-wishbone suspension, ventilated disc brakes and compact mid-engined proportions preserved the 308’s famously balanced handling. Only 494 GTBi berlinettas were produced before the four-valve 308 GTB Quattrovalvole arrived in 1982, making it the rarest major production variant of the 308 family.