4 Star Classics

A stunning 328 GTS in a brilliant colour combination.

MODEL HISTORY

The Ferrari 328 GTS debuted at the 1985 Frankfurt Auto Show and was the successor to the Ferrari 308 GTS. The GTS in the title stands for Gran Turismo Spider, the 328 referrs to the engines 3.2 litres and 8 is for the number of cylinders used. The model was produced between 1985 to 1989.

There were a number of modifications to the 328 since its predecessor,  including an increase in the exotic mid engine V8 to 3.2 litres which was also fitted with a new Marelli MED electronic ignition system and a close ratio 5 speed manual gear box that produced a power output of 270 bhp. This improved performance saw 0-60 mph being delt with in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 163 mph.

The 328 chassis was an oval-section tube frame construction offering race-car construction and rigidity without adding weight. The exterior and structural design actually reduced the car's weight to an impressive 3165lbs, substantially lower than its predecessors.

With Pininfarina styling the 328 presented a softened profile to its predecessor with a nose that had a more rounded shape. The interior trim also had a thorough overhaul with new designs for the seat panel upholstery and stitching, revised door panels and pulls, together with a modern switchgear which complemented the external updates. Optional equipment available included air conditioning, metallic paint, Pirelli P7 tyres and a leather dashboard.

Equipment

Removable roof panel, Electric Windows, Electric mirrors, Air Conditioning,  Pioneer CD player 

EXTERIOR

This 328 has just benefited from a complete strip down and respray at 355 restorations (www.355international.com/dunsfold) who specialise in the restoration of classic Ferrari's and other marks of distinction. The quality of the work is top notch and the car looks absolutely stunning with its red leather trim.

When the car was pieced back together particular attention was taken to make sure all trims, clips or seals were replaced that showed any signs of wear. The removable roof panel is also in excellent condition.

INTERIOR

The condition of the interior is absolutely first rate and a lovely place to spend an afternoon navigating your favourite country roads. All of the leather remains uncreased and soft to the touch, the carpets look like new and all the switch gear works as it should. Every petrolhead should experience one of these fantastic cars, the howl of the engine and feel of the gearbox as you work through the metal gate can be matched by no other manufacturer.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

This car has a fantastic Ferrari service history that is fully documented and charts all the cambelt change intervals. The last service was done in May at SMDG (www.smdg.co.uk) which included the all important cambelt change. The Air conditioning was also converted at the last service to run on the new R134 gas and now blows ice cold.

The car is now in fine mechanical fettle and wants for nothing other than a new owner.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The alloys have all been professionally refurbished and treated to brand new chrome bolts and badges, they are all shod in matching Pirelli tyres that are brand new on the rear and about 25% worn on the front.

All the discs and pads where replaced at the last service and the calipers fully overhauled, so the brakes feel sharp and responsive. 

HISTORY FILE

This 328 was original sold from new to the Kuwait Ferrari dealer in 1988 where it spent its first 4 years. All the paperwork from Kuwait is still with the car but a little difficult to translate!

The car then came back to the UK where it has been maintained until 2005 in the Ferrari network. The original service book is still with the car and has been stamped with every service and marked to show the cambelt intervals. More recently the car has been looked after by the well known specialist SMDG based in Dunsfold who carried out a full service and cambelt change in May of this year.

The service book is accompanied with all the other owners manuals in the red leather Ferrari wallet, there is also a box file full of old service receipts and most of the MOT certificates.