*Unique EU Ferrari Vetroresina find*This EU Ferrari 308 Vetroresina was built in 1976 and has an unbroken, original first (!) registration and the corresponding authentic original documentation. A copy of Part 3 behind the windshield and the latest inspection sticker on the original old license plate also attest to a uniquely preserved piece of history. This matching-numbers Ferrari was delivered new by Kroymans Ferrari and even still has the original dealer tag on the rear. With a production run of approximately 150 LHD Vetroresina models featuring the coveted dry-sump system (quote: Routte Classiche It.), every surviving example can be considered a rarity today. The air conditioning option was nearly standard on this first series because Ferrari wanted to impress the public with luxury features. That has also been our experience with this series. That is why we are surprised by this Vetroresina, which—as an exception to the rule—left the factory without this option. We do not know the reason for this omission. On many Vetroresinas, these “clunky” systems were removed later for sporting purposes, as this saved about 30 kg(!) of sprung weight. The first owner of this unique Ferrari was clearly more drawn to handling than luxury, a fact that is fully reflected in this rare factory specification. When it comes to appreciating a Vetroresina pur sang, we can only agree that the weight and the dry-sump engine configuration define its characteristics. Moreover, due to this option originally being omitted, this EU Vetroresina is the lightest and purest experience of the entire 308-328 lineup. The original cover plate in place of a radio complements this perfectly. The current owner, a well-known artist with professional technical knowledge and decades of experience with Vetroresinas, has chosen to spare no expense or effort in doing whatever he deemed necessary to preserve this unique Ferrari in an original condition that is now rarely found. To prevent irreversible consequences, he has consistently avoided traditional approaches and notions regarding restoration. Instead, expert attention was paid to the under-the-bodywork and technical quality, with an eye toward originality and long-term preservation for the future—thereby awakening a Ferrari from a deep slumber that has lost none of its authenticity and, under the bodywork, impresses in a surprisingly transparent way. The quality of the lightweight, thin Scaglietti bodywork was decidedly above average at the time. Nevertheless, slight warping due to temperature fluctuations over the years has proven inevitable. This led to Vetroresina bodies being heavily criticized in the early years and often scrapped or repurposed for motorsports, where they proved to be quite suitable. Almost all Vetroresina bodies have, sooner or later, fallen victim to commercial market forces, in which the aesthetic qualities of a steel body were emulated to make a Vetroresina more attractive to dealers. That could—and still can—only be achieved by leveling out the typical paper-thin Scaglietti body with substantial amounts of putty and/or corrective filler. After all, there’s simply nothing to dent on polyester. However, it is precisely that light, thin body—which can be dented with a pinky finger—that makes a Vetroresina so unique. It is precisely this characteristic that highlights the difference between this rare pre-series 308 Ferrari and its sleeker, heavier successors. Now, with the benefit of hindsight, we know that exclusivity and rarity derive their raison d’être from authenticity and individuality. And, as always, that same evolving understanding also raises logical questions about many so-called “top-tier restorations” from which there is no turning back. That is why we understand and appreciate the philosophy of the artist behind this Ferrari and are delighted with this exceptional addition to our collection’s automotive history. The body of this Vetroresina is uncompromisingly thin and flexible. The concept of “originality” is often at odds with the need for perfection, but in this context, we believe it represents a wonderful exception that offers the opportunity to experience a Vetroresina in its purest form. This Ferrari EU 308 Vetroresina inspires growing enthusiasm the more closely you examine it and understand its unique potential.
