Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS - Regional Differences

Regional Differences

Among the typically yearly updates to the performance and style of the 308 throughout its run, cars from the same series would have a number of differences between them depending on their intended export market (which is usual for European cars). For example a 308 destined for the American market would sport much larger heavier bumpers and a slightly sturdier frame (and many other smaller details) in order to meet more stringent US road safety standards. American market cars also suffered a performance hit due to a compression ratio of 8.6:1 vs 9.2:1 for most of the rest of the world state emissions legislation which reduced horsepower. As a result of these differences there is often a premium paid for the "purer" European spec car over the federalized car.

Some differences between the Euro-spec and US-spec cars are shown below:

• 240 hp vs. 235 hp
• Different gear ratios
• Lighter, small front bumper that follows the hood line vs. 2.5 mph impact bumper that is extended and has extra “fangs”
• Lighter, small rear bumper vs. impact bumper with spacer
• Exposed dual tip muffler vs. black muffler cover with catalytic converter
• vitaloni style outside mirrors vs. larger flag mirrors that provide a better view for safety
• Small yellow front side marker light with no rear side lights vs. large rectangular yellow front and red rear side marker lights (many euro cars now in the USA had the euro lights converted to USA spec and added the red rear lights)
• No “fasten seat belt” warning light in Euro spec
• Flash to pass driving lights in front grill in Euro spec
• Space saver spare tire vs. full size spare
• Rear engine cover top has only a left and right grill vs. “U” shaped grill that provides a larger cooling area
• Overall weight of Euro spec lower because of door beams and bumpers.