Description

The Ferrari 308 GTSi was introduced in 1980 as the successor to the carbureted 308 GTS, marking a significant mechanical change with the adoption of Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection. This update was primarily aimed at meeting increasingly strict emissions regulations, particularly in the U.S. market, while also improving cold-start reliability and overall drivability. Although the change brought benefits in smoothness and efficiency, it came at the cost of reduced power compared to the earlier carbureted models.

The 308 GTSi retained the same 2,926 cc 90-degree V8, but in fuel-injected form it produced around 214 horsepower in European specification and approximately 205 horsepower in U.S. trim. Power was delivered through a five-speed manual gearbox with Ferrari’s signature open-gated shifter, and the mid-engined layout, fully independent suspension, and ventilated disc brakes continued to provide the sharp handling and balanced dynamics that defined the 308 series.

Stylistically, the GTSi was very similar to its predecessor, with Pininfarina’s timeless wedge profile, pop-up headlights, and the signature removable black-finished targa roof panel. The louvered rear quarter panels, which helped distinguish the GTS from the GTB, were retained. The most noticeable external changes were subtle updates to the wheels, with metric-sized Michelin TRX tires becoming standard, and minor trim differences depending on the market.

Inside, the GTSi kept the familiar low-slung driving position, leather-trimmed sports seats, and simple, functional instrumentation. The cabin remained focused on the driver, but the addition of fuel injection allowed for smoother operation in stop-and-go traffic, making the car somewhat easier to live with as a daily driver compared to the more temperamental carbureted versions.

Despite the benefits in usability, some enthusiasts at the time were disappointed by the drop in performance, as the injected cars were slower in acceleration and had a lower top speed than their carbureted predecessors. However, the GTSi’s chassis balance and styling remained as appealing as ever, and the changes kept the car compliant with evolving emissions laws, particularly in key export markets.

The 308 GTSi remained in production until 1982, when it was replaced by the 308 GTS Quattrovalvole, which restored much of the lost performance through the use of a four-valve-per-cylinder head design. Today, the GTSi is often appreciated as a more affordable entry point into classic Ferrari ownership, offering the looks and driving experience of the early 308 series with the added benefit of improved reliability from fuel injection.