Description

The Ferrari 208 GT4 was introduced in 1975 as a smaller-displacement version of the 308 GT4, created primarily for the Italian market to comply with the country’s tax regulations, which heavily penalized engines larger than two liters. By offering a 2.0-liter alternative, Ferrari could give domestic buyers a more affordable entry point without sacrificing the style and driving experience associated with the brand.

Designed by Bertone rather than Pininfarina, the 208 GT4 retained the wedge-shaped lines of the 308 GT4, with sharp angles, pop-up headlights, and a 2+2 seating layout. The smaller 1,990 cc V8 was based on the 308’s engine but had a reduced bore, producing around 170 horsepower in European specification. While performance was more modest compared to the 308 GT4, with a top speed of about 215 km/h and slower acceleration, the 208 GT4 still offered a balanced chassis, precise steering, and the mid-engined handling characteristics that defined Ferrari’s V8 lineup.

Inside, the cabin layout was identical to that of the 308 GT4, featuring leather-trimmed sports seats, a flat dashboard with clear instrumentation, and rear seats suitable for occasional passengers or luggage. The driving position was low and engaging, with the gated five-speed shifter positioned prominently in the center console.

Although the 208 GT4 was not as fast or as powerful as its larger-engined sibling, it maintained Ferrari’s reputation for sharp handling and driver involvement. It also marked an important part of the company’s strategy to adapt to domestic market demands without compromising the core appeal of its cars.

Production of the 208 GT4 lasted until 1980, when it was succeeded by the turbocharged 208 GTB Turbo, which restored much of the performance lost due to the smaller displacement. Today, the 208 GT4 is one of the rarer Ferrari V8 models, valued for its unique place in the brand’s history and as a more accessible way to experience the feel of a 1970s mid-engined Ferrari.