49 kilometres from new
1989 Ferrari 328 GTS Targa Coupé

• Incredibly original 'time warp' condition
• Left-hand drive
• Classic colour combination
• Serviced by Carrs of Exeter

Introduced in 1985, the Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS was similar to the preceding 308 version apart from its 3.2-litre engine. Representing the second generation of Ferrari's V8-engined road cars, the entirely new 308 GTB had debuted at the Paris Salon in 1975. This particular model line had begun in 1973 with the Dino-badged 308 GT4 2+2, which took over from the preceding V6-engined Dino 246 GT. The newcomer's wedge-shaped styling - by Bertone rather than the customary Pininfarina - was not universally well received but the performance of the amidships-mounted, double-overhead-camshaft 3.0-litre V8 certainly was, and a dry-sump version of the same power unit was used for the 308 GT4's two-seat successor. Built on a shorter wheelbase, the stunningly beautiful 308 GTB marked a welcome return to Pininfarina styling. Further developments included the introduction in 1977 of an open-top GTS version with Targa-style removable roof, the adoption of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection (1980) and, finally, revised cylinder heads with four valves per cylinder (1982).

The 308 was superseded by the mechanically similar but larger engined 328 GTB in 1985. By increasing both bore and stroke, the quattrovalvole engine's capacity was raised to 3,186cc which, together with a higher compression ratio, revised pistons and an improved Marelli engine management system, lifted maximum power to 270bhp. Top speed was raised to within a whisker of 160mph (258km/h) with the sprint to 100km/h covered in a fraction over 5.5 seconds. On the outside, the elegant simplicity of Pininfarina's original 308 had been diluted somewhat by the addition of Testarossa-style moulded bumpers incorporating both sidelights and indicators, deeper rear valance and an unobtrusive roof spoiler. Its underlying beauty though, could not be disguised. "In our book, this is still the most beautiful of all contemporary exotics - a gorgeous looking car," declared Motor magazine.

This 328 GTS was delivered new to Josef Rotschne through the Austrian Ferrari dealer Wolfgang Denzel in January 1989 and shows 49 kilometres on the odometer. The car presents beautifully, whether viewed from the front, rear, above or underneath. The expected signs of ageing bodywork are absent, and the shut lines and panel gaps are crisp and consistent throughout. Even the black plastic elements on the rear spoiler, wing mirrors, and engine and side window louvres have resisted cracking. Likewise, the black finish on the removable Targa roof, which is a snug fit. The Rosso Corsa paintwork presents well, while the Crema leather interior matches the exterior in terms of originality, authenticity and condition; even the instructions label for the Veglia Borletti quartz clock is still in place. Opening the boot reveals a similarly well-presented space containing a full-size spare wheel and a Ferrari tool roll.

Having covered a mere 49 kilometres in 36 years, this car does not come with a great deal of history; nevertheless. In 2019, the Ferrari had its '2nd year' annual service with main dealer Carrs of Exeter. The service included the replacement of all cam belts, auxiliary belts and tensioners, plus a new battery and replacement bonnet and boot struts. Carrs also carried out some maintenance work and fitted new gaskets and seals to the gearbox and sump in October 2023. The car comes with a book pack and keys, but there is no registration document present. A unique opportunity.