Lot 010: 1979 Ferrari 308 GTS

Introduced at the October 1975 Paris Salon, the 308 GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) was an important car not just for Ferrari but for stylist Pininfarina as well. Keen to re-establish its monopoly on the Prancing Horse, the famous carrozzeria strove to produce a truly iconic design. In the eyes of many it succeeded and certainly Maranello has not strayed since. Initially clad with fibreglass panels the 308 GTB adopted steel bodywork in 1977 (though, the inner wings and floorpan remained moulded from GRP). That same year also saw an open-topped version debuting at the Earls Court Motor Fair. Christened the 308 GTS (Gran Turismo Spider), it was Ferrari's only 'wind-in-the-hair' model at the time and featured a removable 'targa' roof panel that stowed neatly behind the seats. Utilising a subtly strengthened version of its sibling's tubular spaceframe chassis, the newcomer employed the same all-round independent double-wishbone suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and rack and pinion steering. Powered by Maranello's magnificent 'quad-cam' 2926cc V8 engine mated to five-speed manual transmission, the 308 GTS was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds and 150mph. Finished in mid metallic blue with dark blue leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good" condition with regard to its interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (while he rates the engine and gearbox as "excellent"). Entering the current ownership during May 2005, 'GPW 607T' was apparently treated to "an extensive engine overhaul and new clutch last November". Said to have covered "1,000 miles" since then, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until June 2009.