QV Swapped Driver: 1980 Ferrari 308 GTSi

We hear the word “driver” kicked around all the time, and I use it quite a bit myself to describe cars that aren’t pristine but are more or less kept in good, running order. But there are cars that go even further to establish themselves as not only a driver but as one that has continued to evolve to ensure its ongoing usefulness. These vehicles are far less common, because even a driver-quality collector car tends to get parked in pursuit of preservation. Not this 1980 Ferrari 308 GTSi listed here on eBay: it’s truly a driver with a few cosmetic flaws and plenty of miles, but it’s also been updated with a more powerful Quattrovalvole (QV) engine-spec engine.

The seller is asking $58,500 or best offer. The listing notes that this Ferrari was owned by a seasoned mechanic who was committed to keeping it on the road. The engine swap was likely done not only due to the better performance but as a means of keeping the car on the road. When you stop worrying about numbers matching because you’re so focused on keeping the car on the road, you have officially moved past driver status into something more unique. The prior owner clearly loved to bring this Ferrari to work everyday and it shows – in all the best ways possible. The seller notes there are numerous cosmetic flaws and a respray is likely needed if you want perfection.

But that’s not the point of this car. There are plenty of 308s sitting in temperature-controlled garages with delivery miles on the clock. We don’t need another one. The listing claims there’s 34,000 miles on the clock but I’m guessing the QV motor has less than that. Of course, the cosmetics suggest it’s seen far more miles than what’s on the odometer, but it’s hard to say – the paintwork may not be all that bad for a daily driver, but looks worse than it really is because most 308s are pristine. The seller notes exposed wiring in places and some wear and tear around the cabin, but again – you can get it and take this car to work tomorrow without feeling bad about it.

In the last 3 years, this engine has seen all the must-do work you want to find in a vintage Ferrari’s history file. The major engine-out timing belt service has been done (likely at the time of the QV engine swap) and included the cam belts, tensioner, bearings, and hardware. The cooling system has been serviced along with the clutch, spark plugs, and valve cover gaskets. The QV mill should be good for about 230 horsepower and with major servicing done, you can rest easy taking it up through the upper reaches of the tach. The period-correct wheels look sharp here, and compliment the car’s personality perfectly. We love it! Thanks to Barn Finds readers Tony Primo and Curvette who both spotted this 308.