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1980-1983 Ferrari 308 GTSi

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Posted on 11.17.2009 06:00 by Simona Alina
Filed under: Ferrari | sports cars | roadster | Ferrari 308

In 1980 Ferrari unveiled the 308 GTSi, the spider version of the 308 GTBi. The "i" in the model designation referring to the fitment of fuel injection. The car stayed into production through to the beginning of 1983, during which time 1749 examples were produced, in both left and right hand drive configurations.

Visually the new model was almost identical to the outgoing one, although the casting pattern of the five spoke alloy wheels changed slightly due to the fitment of Michelin TRX metric size radial tires. However, the imperial size Michelin XWX tyres on 14” wheels, or Pirelli P7 tires on 16” wheels were available as an option.

As with the 308 GTS targa roof model, the removable roof panel was stowed in a cover behind the seats when not in use, and the rear quarter windows behind the doors featured hinged satin black finished slatted covers.

On the interior the leather trimmed bucket seats had a different stitch pattern, whilst the main instruments were maintained in a hooded nacelle in front of the driver, the clock and oil temperature gauge were moved to a panel at the front of the centre console to make them more easily visible in a separate panel on the lower left edge of the dashboard.

The steering wheel design was also changed to one with satin black spokes, featuring longitudinal slots. As with the preceding model the gear lever in an open gate was mounted in the center console alongside the ashtray, as was the ancillary switchgear and the handbrake.

Under the hood Ferrari placed a transversely mid-mounted aluminum V8 engine with a total capacity of 2926cc, with a bore and stroke of 81mm x 71mm. The engine delivered a claimed 214bhp for European market models, and 205bhp for US market examples, which were fitted with power sapping emission control equipment.

The engine was coupled in unit with the all synchromesh five speed transmission assembly, which was below, and to the rear of the engine’s sump. The gear and final drive ratios were altered to suit the revised characteristics of the fuel injected engine.