Ferrari 308: A TV Star and Symbolic Icon
In 1973, Ferrari unveiled the Dino 308 GT4 to mark 20 years of their exclusive collaboration with Italian car designers, Pininfarina. This V8 mid-engined Grand Tourer sported an angular body with pop-up headlights, boomerang-shaped air intakes, and usable rear seats - a significant evolution from the previous 365 GTC4. The 2+2 coupe boasted a top speed of 155 mph, with production spanning seven years before being replaced by the Mondial 8.
The 308 GTB was launched in 1975, followed by the 308 GTS two years later in 1977. Developed with Pininfarina, the 308 GTS featured a Targa design allowing for open-top sports car driving, with the hardtop conveniently storable behind the rear seats.
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1980 introduced two more models: the 308 GTBi and 308 GTSi. These models gained international fame through the popular TV series "Magnum PI". The GTBi maintained a body style nearly identical to the 308 GTB, with primary interior changes including a new stitch pattern on the leather-trimmed bucket seats and strategically relocated clock and oil pressure gauge for better driver visibility.
The introduction of fuel injection systems, as indicated by the "i" suffix, marked the most significant change, offering smoother power delivery. Although these cleaner engines produced less power than their carburated predecessors, they still achieved a top speed of 149 mph.
By 1982, the 308 GTB Quattrovalvole and 308 GTS Quattrovalvole were available. To counteract the power reduction from the switch to fuel-injected engines, Ferrari engineers implemented four valves per cylinder (Quattrovalvole), enhancing performance.
These models appeared again in "Magnum PI", and their association with the show's vibrant setting - tropical islands, sunshine, fast cars, and action - helped cement the 308's status as a symbolic icon.
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