1979 Ferrari 308 GTS

30237roadItaly

Engine: 2.9L transverse V8, ~240 hp
Colour: 'Rosso Rubino' (deep red)

A 1979 Ferrari 308 GTS finished in Rosso Rubino over tan leather, believed originally retailed through Grand Touring Cars of Phoenix, Arizona. One of 3,219 open-top examples built, the targa-roofed 308 GTS was made famous by the television series Magnum, P.I. This example has had only three owners across its lifetime and shows low recorded mileage of under 25,000 miles, with a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment completed in 2023–2024.

Ownership

—Auction sale
Sold US$100,800
RM Sotheby's catalogue lot →
1979 →Acquisition unknown
First private owner
partial documentation
One of three total owners over approximately 45 years; no further identifying details provided in the catalogue.
Date unknownAcquisition unknown
Second private owner
partial documentation
Second of three custodians; no identifying details given beyond being part of a short ownership chain.
Date unknownAcquisition unknown
Current consignor
partial documentation
Third and most recent keeper; commissioned a comprehensive mechanical restoration at a California specialist shop between late 2023 and spring 2024, totaling approximately $28,000.
Date unknownFactory delivery
Grand Touring Cars (Harley E. Cluxton III dealership, Phoenix, Arizona)
partial documentation
Believed to be the original selling dealer for this 1979 example, based in Phoenix, Arizona. Sale through this dealership is not fully confirmed.

Competition

No competition history extracted from the catalogue.

Maintenance & restoration

2024Mechanical
Fast Cars
Substantial mechanical refurbishment carried out over the autumn of 2023 through spring 2024, encompassing carburettor rebuilding, timing belt renewal, replacement of hoses, seals, and filters, among other work. Total cost approximately $28,000, supported by invoices.
Workshop located in Redondo Beach, California.

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