1987 Ferrari 328 GTS

Introduced in 1985 as the successor to the 308, the Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS was powered by an enlarged 3.2-liter naturally aspirated 32-valve 90-degree V8 (Tipo F105 CB) featuring Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection. It delivered 270 hp and 224 lb-ft of torque through a classic five-speed gated manual transmission.

Crucially, the 328 represents the final and most refined iteration of Ferrari's transversely mounted V8 lineup. Because the engine is mounted crosswise in the chassis, major routine maintenance, most notably timing belt replacements, can be performed directly in situ through the wheel-well access panel without requiring the expensive, labor-intensive engine-out drops demanded by its longitudinally mounted successors, such as the 348 and F355.

Exterior:

This Ferrari 328 GTS is finished in classic Rosso Corsa, just as it left the factory. It has had a full respray and today presents in very nice driver’s condition—not perfect to the point where you would not dare use it, but still very presentable at any car meet.

What sets the exterior of this 328 apart are two small modifications. First, the lower sections around the car, including the lower front spoiler, rocker panels, and rear diffuser, have been color-matched to the body instead of retaining the factory matte black finish. In my opinion, this enhances the beautiful design of the 328 and gives it a more modern, aggressive stance.

The second deviation from the original is the wheels, which have been replaced with genuine three-piece BBS wheels. If a Ferrari 328 should have any non-original wheels, these are the ones. They feel period-correct and truly make the car stand out in person with real presence.

328 buyers will also appreciate two positive exterior details: the European side mirrors and the absence of American side markers. Another detail, which is somewhat difficult to identify without the original wheels, is that this is a pre-ABS model. This can also be identified by a few other small details, such as the outside door handles.

Interior:

Inside, the 328 GTS is in nice condition. The black leather seats are in exceptional shape; the leather is soft with minimal traces of wear. Given that this is the open-top version, whose seats are often weather-worn, it is remarkable that this car still retains its original leather.

The rest of the interior is also well-preserved, with the carpets in good condition. The 328 is a practical car, featuring a decent-sized compartment in the back and a small storage area in the front.

I love the simplicity of the targa top on these cars: no complex electronics or convertible top frames. Just two buckles, and you can lift off the roof yourself and store it behind the two seats.

Engine and Mechanics:

For me, the Ferrari 328 GTS represents the peak driver’s Ferrari. With 270 hp, it has just the right amount of power to push it without losing your license instantly. This car features an aftermarket exhaust that sounds truly amazing.

The handling of the 328 is also excellent. The car feels very balanced and has super-precise steering. However, the suspension is still compliant enough over speed bumps while remaining very stable at high speeds.

Then there’s the seating position, which feels comfortable yet purposeful, making you feel like you are sitting in something special. Of course, the five-speed gated manual with a dogleg first gear delivers those distinct metal-on-metal clicks with every shift.

The gear ratios are perfectly spaced: the first four gears feel close and tight, while fifth is a taller ratio that lets the car cruise comfortably on the highway. Add the sound from the exhaust with the roof off and just the right amount of wind in your hair, and I could go on and on about driving this car.

History and Documentation:

This is a German-delivered car that has had very few owners. It resided in the southern parts of Germany and was occasionally serviced by Ferrari in Switzerland.

The latest major service, including the timing belt replacement, was completed in October 2022. The car has travelled 2,000 km since.