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In 1977 Ferrari launched a Targa-top version of their 308 GTB known as this 308 GTS. It was this car which was made famous in Magnum, P.I. starring Tom Selleck as Thomas Magnum, a private investigator driving a bright red Ferrari 308 GTS.
255 bhp, 2,926 cc DOHC 90-degree V-8 engine with four Weber 40DCNF carburettors, five-speed gearbox, front and rear independent suspension by A-arms, coil springs, and telescopic shocks, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,340 mm
The 308 was launched in 1975, initially with fibreglass bodywork. Pininfarina's design was considered quite stunning. The body shape was the most successful to ever adorn the Prancing Horse badge. Over 20,000, in various engine guises, were sold between 1975 and 1989.
A spider version, the 308 GTS, was launched to the world at the first Motor Fair, held at Earls Court, in London, in 1977. The production run lasted until 1985 and outsold the coupés by almost two to one, with just over 8,000 spiders against 4,150 berlinettas. These were serious production numbers, and Ferrari, now under Fiat ownership, was growing quite dramatically.
One of the first journalists to drive the 308 in 1975 was Paul Frère. He described the car as, "the most seductive model to ever come from Maranello". Furthermore, "the performance is deceptive, with the motor being so flexible and sweet in its performance".