The Ferrari 308 GT4 and 208 GT4 were mid-engined V8-powered 2+2 cars. The 308 GT4 was introduced in 1974, supplemented by the 208 GT4 the next year, and replaced by the Mondial in 1980 after a production run of 2,826 vehicles. Sold at first with the Dino badge (in honor of Enzo Ferrari's son, Dino), the 308 GT4 continued with a Ferrari badge.
[] 308 GT4
The 308 GT4 was a groundbreaking model for Ferrari in several ways: It was the first production Ferrari to feature the mid-engined V8 layout that would become the bulk of the company's business in the succeeding decades, and was the first production Ferrari to feature Bertone (rather than Pininfarina) bodywork. Pininfarina was upset by the decision to give cross-town rival Bertone the design, considering all they had done for Ferrari.
The GT4, introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1973, featured angular lines entirely different from their curvaceous 2-seat predecessor, the 246 "Dino" GT, and later brother, the 308 GT. The styling was controversial at the time, with some journalists comparing it to the Bertone-designed Lancia Stratos and Lamborghini Urraco.
The chassis was based on the 246 Dino but was stretched for a 2,550 mm wheelbase to make room for the second row of seats. The suspension was fully-independent and the V8 was mounted transversely. The 3.0 L (2927 cc) V8 was integrally joined with the gearbox and produced 255 hp.
Today it is relatively easy to acquire one of these cars with examples priced at the same level as a new low-end sports car.
[] 208 GT4
Like the later 208 GTB, a low-displacement version of the V8 was produced for Europe. Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1975, the 208 GT4 used a de-bored (66.8x71 mm) 2.0 L (1991 cc) V8. This was the smallest production V8 in history.
Power output was 170 hp (126 kW) at 7,700 rpm for a top speed of 137 mph (220 km/h). A lower final drive ratio and skinnier tires completed the technical changes for this 208. Chrome (rather than black) accents outside and the lack of fog lights were visual indicators of the little engine.
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