Rare fiberglass survivor – Auctioning a piece of history: The rare 1976 Ferrari 308 GTB, introduced as the successor to the Dino 246, featured a unique fiberglass body during its early production years for reduced weight. With only approximately 712 units manufactured with fiberglass bodywork, one of these exceptional cars is now up for auction.
Desirable lightweight marvel: Crafted by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, the initial 308 GTB models boasted a glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) bodywork, weighing a mere 2,315 pounds (1,050 kilograms). However, in June 1977, Ferrari shifted to steel bodies, adding around 331 pounds (150 kilograms) to the car’s weight. Today, the earlier and lighter GRP models are sought after by passionate Ferrari enthusiasts.
Rare fiberglass survivor
Power and performance in harmony: Alongside its lightweight construction, the initial models featured a transverse rear-mounted 2.9-liter V8 engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission.
While European-spec cars boasted a peak output of 237 horsepower (177 kilowatts) at 6,600 rpm, the U.S.-delivered versions, including the showcased model above, slightly suffered due to emissions regulations, resulting in a slightly lower power output.
Crafted in June 1976, this specific vehicle was assembled during the final stages of production for the fiberglass-bodied 308 GTBs. Over the years, it has transitioned between multiple owners before finding its way to its current custodian, who has diligently preserved it with a mere 9,587 miles on the odometer.
Now, this remarkable specimen will be offered for sale at RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction, slated to take place from 17th to 19th August.
Visible in the photographs, the vehicle exhibits previous damage to its front end and windshield.
However, it is worth noting that all parts are present, making it a promising candidate for restoration. Notably, the car still possesses its original numbers-matching engine and gearbox, further enhancing its appeal for potential restoration efforts.
The 1976 Ferrari 308 GTB is a highly sought-after vintage sports car that holds a special distinction. During the early years of its production, Ferrari constructed the body of this model using fiberglass, resulting in a significantly lighter weight compared to later versions.
It is estimated that only around 712 units with fiberglass bodywork were produced, making them exceedingly rare.
These early 308 GTB models featured a body made entirely of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), which contributed to their low weight of approximately 2,315 pounds (1,050 kilograms). Equipped with a transverse rear-mounted 2.9-liter V8 engine and a five-speed manual transmission, these cars delivered impressive performance.
While later models transitioned to steel bodies, these early fiberglass versions have become highly desirable among Ferrari enthusiasts.
The featured 1976 Ferrari 308 GTB, slated for auction at RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction, bears the signs of previous damage but remains a prime candidate for restoration. It retains its original numbers-matching engine and gearbox, further adding to its value and appeal.
