The Ferrari 308 features a profile that is instantly recognizable, capturing the essence of 80s sportscar motoring better than perhaps any other marque or model. While every manufacturer was impacted by the malaise era in some regard, the 308 seemingly suffered less than other models solely because of its high levels of visibility made possible by the Magnum P.I. television show, along with being seen as the stereotypical “rich guy’s” car. The 308’s sexy shape, exotic mid-engine design, and stirring performance with a classic gated manual shifter made for a compelling package, and this 1983 model listed here on eBay is listed for $77,900 or best offer.
The 308 also enjoys ongoing popularity because it is one of the most recognized “poster cars” of the 1980s, an era famous for immortalizing exotic cars on teeangers’ bedroom walls. The 308 is still perceived as a car mere mortals cannot afford, but they’re actually still reasonable for the time being. For years, they hovered around $30,000 – $45,000, but those prices have risen along with many other sports cars of the era. Still, its value pales in comparison to more limited production Ferrari supercars of the same era, and prices have risen far more slowly than cars from the late 90s and early 2000s.
However, in looking at one of these cars soon to be posted for sale by a family friend, I can’t help but see it is a relic of a bygone era, and not one I necessarily feel compelled to save. There were numerous other options with better assembly quality and air conditioning that actually feels like it will cool you down (a known 308 weak spot.) The seller contends that from a maintenance perspective, much work has been done, including a fairly recent belt service. However, in a stroke of bad luck, the seller notes the original owner’s manual was stolen out of the car, which apparently contained service records, and no documentation will be provided. Fortunately, the clean condition all around inspires a great deal of confidence, and it’s easy to believe it has under 50,000 miles.
The 2.9L V8 produced 230 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque when new, which isn’t a very impressive number by today’s standards. However, most owners of these cars praise the durability of the engines along with the relatively simple maintenance requirements, even if an engine-out service is occasionally required. My question is whether the 308 will continue to have relevance, especially as the era that coveted this poster car either acquire their dream vehicle or simply move on to other things; will the 308 emerge as a long-term collector’s items or just another 80s novelty?
Stolen maintenance records, you say? Mmm, hmm, too early for my sarcastic wit? Sorry, but while the old man was a,,,um, certain individual, he did tell me a few things worth holding dear, if something sounds fishy, it probably is. Besides, as mentioned, a typical tire kicker probably isn’t looking for a Ferrari 308, a buyer should know what they are looking at. When talking about a TV show from 1980,( 45 YEARS AGO !!!!) it’s easy for many not to know what we’re talking about. If the case, Magnum P.I. was a groundbreaking, popular show, about a very handsome, somewhat regular guy, that happened to live in Hawaii at a millionaires mansion and drove a Ferrari and dabbled in investigating crimes. Not too out of the ordinary. I’ve driven a lot of vehicles, but sadly, as the years drift by, it seems more and more unlikely I will drive a Ferrari, oh well,,
BTW, the intro was created by Mike Post, and next to Hawaii 50, considered the most catchy intro music made.
I know a certain garage and a certain bathroom where someone can check for “misplaced” records.
The scene when Thomas peels out the Ferrari from the grass fishtailing onto the road really was good Howard. What a great intro, the music, and of course the totally awesome Hughes helo 🚁👍
I always loved the ending shot of the introduction where he raises his eyebrows. I’m unfortunately one of those people that sees a Ferrari 308 and yells out, Hey!!! A Magnum Ferrari!!! COOL!!! Great show, amd I remember watching Simon and Simon on right aftet that. But the Magnum theme is whats going through my head right now writing this. This one is an amazing example. Great write up Jeff. And thanks for the memorys Howard and Stan!!!
-Dave
I had a friend who had one of these in perfect shape,and only
drove it a couple of times.I remember that he wanted $30,000 for it,
& sold it 10 + years ago.
How could you own one & not drive it?
I had a friend who owned one, he said that on average it cost him $3k for every time he started it up.
That might keep your annual mileage down a bit..?
A colleague once owned a 308 and a second generation M3. I’ll never forget how he described the difference in performance. The BMW ran rings around the 308. The Ferrari is indeed a time capsule more than a supercar. I would love one for that reason. By the way the GT4 and the early 308’s didn’t need engines out for maintenance.
No 308 or later 328 needs engine-out service. They are transverse mounted engines, so the belt service is performed by merely removing a rear tire and inner plastic fender. It wasn’t until the longitudinal-mounted engine in the 348 that engine removal was required.
I used to call my ex girlfriend a Ferrari – that didn’t run…
My ex was a “no-go showboat”….
*at least for me…
Just because i’m old and when my odometer turns to 60 next year this is the car i think only someone older will appreciate, not because of the Ferrari status but as Thomas Magnum’s car most. It’s a nice one and should find a nice home. Now the other debate, the original or the reboot version. Well at least the new Higgins was cuter. ;)
Just got my first ride in a Ferrari 2 weeks ago and it was one of these. Not a quatrovalve though. Not a rocket ship, but pulled nice and was an all around great riding car. Just a lot of fun. I kinda want one now. Wish I had the money for this one since I understand the quatrovalves were a significant difference.
The listing says it sold on Tuesday 8/12/25.
Yep – Best Offer Accepted.
Well of course this car is still really very relevant. Why? 1. The next owner can take it to Radwood 1980s and 1990s era car shows, or 2. use and display it as a Magnum P.I. replica. 3. The body lines on these are still very classic and this would even be welcome at a concours type of car show too.
Always my favorite looking Ferrari. Would I ever own one? No.
Located in: Palm Bay, Florida
I have never driven one, but I sat in a few, I have big feet, could never have shifted it comfortably. 3 inches wider and average American guys could have driven them. Did Selleck actually drive it? I doubt it, maybe in bare feet. Maintenance is too high. I hear a regular handy guy with a shop full of tools can work on them, but parts are crazy (needlessly) expensive. If these were of a proper size for me AND obviously more affordable, I think I would tackle an engine transplant for reliability and power. My buddy and I were laughing about this once, and he threw out the idea of a fuel injected slant six! Wouldn’t that raise some eyebrows? I bet it would fit well, weight would be fine. A 225 bored out is closer to the 308s engine size, plus with EFI and some work, easily match the stock performance, plus have gobs more torque. Be a lot better to drive, as far as I’m concerned. Never have enjoyed a high winding engine that needs to be wringed out to get the performance. I like mine in the midrange. I would so love to show up at a snooty Ferrari car show with one like that and pop the hood!
This listing sold on Tue, Aug 12.
Best offer accepted
Magnum P I model!!