Ferrari 308 GTS

Why it matters

Introduced at London’s 1977 International Motor Show, the 308 GTS adapted Leonardo Fioravanti’s acclaimed 308 GTB into an open-roof two-seater. Its removable black targa panel stowed behind the seats, while louvered sail panels replaced the berlinetta’s rear quarter glass and reinforced sills preserved structural rigidity. The transversely mounted 2,927 cc Tipo F106 AB four-cam V8 retained four twin-choke Weber carburetors and produced approximately 255 hp in European form, driving through a gated five-speed transaxle. Independent double-wishbone suspension and four-wheel disc brakes carried over the GTB’s balance and precision. With 3,219 carbureted examples produced before fuel injection arrived in 1980, the GTS outsold its closed sibling and became one of Ferrari’s most recognizable road cars—an identity amplified worldwide by its later television fame, but founded on genuinely exceptional engineering and design.