1988 Ferrari 328 GTS

On its debut Motorsport Magazine remarked, “All the superlatives have been trotted out time and again, but the 328’s impeccable balance, terrific grip and uncanny stability rouse the taste buds of even the most jaded motoring palate”.

The Ferrari Type 328 succeeded the vaunted 308 line-up, and when it first appeared in 1985, it instantly became a sports icon of the indulgent 1980’s.

Boasting cleaner lines smoothed out by Pininfarina’s designers to make the car appear less aggressive but overall, more refined, an updated interior and significantly enhanced performance over its predecessor, the 328 delivered a drive and ease of ownership experience to be remembered.

Under the hood, in the middle, we find the 328’s updated DOHC transverse-mounted V8 engine with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection with the bore and stroke increased bringing displacement to 3,186cc with an output of 270HP at 7,000 rpm achieving 0 – 100km/h in just 5.5 seconds through its fabled chrome gated 5 speed manual transmission modern Ferrari’s no longer feature.

Offered here is an exceptionally rare and completely original find. An Australian delivered 1988 Ferrari 328 GTS sold new in June of 1988 by Auto Classic Ferrari, W.A. ordered in the most desirable combination of Rosso Corsa over Tan Leather trim and travelled an original 8,700 kilometres.

Kept by it’s original owner for 23 years, in 2011 the Ferrari was passed to it’s second owner, who continued the car’s life of cosseted care. Upon purchase, the belts were changed as a precautionary measure. The car remained in very limited use under their ownership, with the 20,000km service being completed in March 2021, early again with just 8,569km on the odometer.

This major service, included the belt change and any other items being renewed which needed attention after so little use over a long period. This work was done at a cost of about $10,000, preparing the car to be ready for use at a new owner’s whim.

Used so sparingly, the original service book shows the first service was completed in 1989 and the second service – meant to be at 10,000km, was done early, at 5,621km in 1997.

This time warp 328 GTS features its original 16-inch Ferrari stamped alloys still shod in the original, factory fitted GoodYear tyres.

The original and iconic Carello quad tail light lenses, the correct vinyl wrapped Targa top and matching optional rear spoiler are in superb condition, the original Momo leather wheel and etched glass are all still present, even the original carpets have been exceptionally well preserved by over-mats it’s entire life and we’ve never seen another rear boot compartment with the leatherette privacy cover in such mint condition.

Accompanied by its original book pack with delivery receipt and service stamps as well as it’s latest service receipt for the major works and original keys and keyrings, all tell-tale signs attest to the meticulous way this Ferrari has been kept.

Absolutely on the button, the drive and performance delivery of this special car is second to none. Torquey from low down with such a wide power band this 328 is so well tuned and has essentially only just been run-in.

Then there is the flat cornering, super accurate gear changes and well weighted steering and pedal feel- to experience a 1980’s icon in such good condition is a treat.

Considered by many to be one of the most reliable Ferrari’s ever built, 328's have always been considered the enthusiast’s favourite. On offer is outstanding performance, perfect road manners, arguably gorgeous design and a maintenance bill that isn’t much different to a VW Golf.

This timeless sports classic, simply stated, checks all the right boxes and satisfies even the most discerning classic motoring connoisseur tastes.