Lot 720: 1987 Ferrari 328GTS Targa Convertible Coup�
Coachwork by Pininfarina

Ferrari�s line of highly successful V8-engined road cars began with the 308GT4 of 1973. Originally badged as a Dino, the all-new 308GT4 2+2 took over from the preceding Dino V6. The newcomer�s wedge-shaped styling - by Bertone rather than the customary Pininfarina - was not universally well received, but the performance of the amidships-mounted double-overhead-camshaft 3-litre V8 certainly was, and a new two-seater car using a dry-sumped version of the same power unit debuted at the Paris Salon in 1975. Built on a shorter wheelbase, the stunningly beautiful 308GTB marked a welcome return to Pininfarina styling.
Subsequently updated with four-valves per cylinder, the 308 was superseded by the mechanically similar but larger engined 328GTB in 1985. By increasing both bore and stroke, the quattrovalvole engine�s capacity was raised to 3,186cc which, together with a higher compression ratio, revised pistons and improved Marelli engine management system, lifted maximum power to 270bhp at 7,000rpm. Top speed was raised to within a whisker of 160mph with the sprint to 60mph covered in 5.5 seconds. On the outside, the addition of Testarossa-style moulded bumpers, a deeper rear valance and an unobtrusive roof spoiler could not disguise its underlying beauty. �If the sublime purity of the original shape has been corrupted, its striking appearance has not,� observed Motor magazine. �In our book, this is still the most beautiful of all contemporary exotics - a gorgeous looking car.�
This right-hand drive 328GTS Targa convertible has recorded a little over 90,000 miles from new and is currently in the hands of its sixth owner, who purchased the car from Paul Hargreaves Ferrari in December 2005. Recent work includes a major service at Rardley Motors, carried out at a cost in excess of �3,500 in July 2006 (invoice available), at which time the brakes were completely overhauled, new heater fans fitted, assorted electrical switchgear replaced and two new tyres fitted at the front. Most recently, in August 2007, the cam belts were replaced by Ferrari specialists QV in Ascot. Finished in red with matching carpets and black leather upholstery, the car comes complete with tool kit and is offered with a quantity of expired MoTs; original owner�s manual, sales brochure and service booklet; Swansea V5 registration document; current road fund licence and MoT to May 2008.