I'm 46 years old, and since I was a child, a 308 is what I always drew when I wanted to draw a sports car :) Now, 40 years later, the 308 is STILL the quintessential sports car shape for me. What a beautiful and timeless masterpiece of design!
I am 48, grew up with cannonball run, smokey and the bandit, magnum pi, the A team, and yes the Duke boys. The 308 has been a lifelong dream. When I could've afforded one, I was too busy, now I can't afford one
I agree about the wheel size influencing the handling. One must remember that the suspension was designed to work with a tall sidewall, and so the amount of camber and caster you get throughout the suspension travel takes this into account. One can usually get away with an inch more diameter (along with the requisite decrease in sidewall height), but two can be pushing your luck - it usually ends up as something that doesn't grip quite as well, is less progressive at the limit, and has a tendency to dart across the road if it's bumpy. If you want to find out how good the design really is - keep it stock.
That happens a lot. I like nice rims as much as the next person, and I'm open to modern improvements and resto-mods. But there is such a thing as design language. CarTok is very bad that way. A lot of beautiful older cars shown there are disfigured by way too big rims and thin tires. 22" just look wrong on an E38 etc.
Absolutely loving the channel, my one critique would be that the separate chapters spoil the flow of the videos. If the video and corresponding chapters were longer it wouldn't be a problem. Regardless of that I will continue to watch and enjoy your video. All the best R
There are a few Panteras around here. They have so much presence. I’ve never owned a V8 car, but there’s something to be said about solid reliable torque. You have made the right choice.
I had a 1979 Agento (silver) 308 GTB in 1990 , immediately had a ‘Nigel Mansell Ferrari ‘ engine rebuild with ‘sports pack‘ 326BHP on the dyno . I did 50,000miles in 5 years as it was my only car , it pulled 7,600rpm and screamed like the devil was having a bad day . I sold it to a friend at 178 ,000 miles , they love to be used ……hard . Happy days .
What did you do to sell the car at 178,000 miles? Take it to his house in several tea chests? I have never heard of a Ferrari beat out nearly 200,000 miles unless its the equivalent of triggers broom.
I enjoyed going down the 308 memory lane Jack! I love watching everything you did with the Influenzo but I can't wait to see your content with the Pantera! Exciting stuff to come, I'm sure!
"Where I live all the roads are really quite bumpy" - welcome to Britain. Glad to see you in a 308 again, albeit temporarily. Looking forward to seeing more of the Pantera soon!
I spent last winter installing adjustable coilovers on my GTSi, as well as replacing all of the bushings, steering rack and brakes. The thing drives like a new car. The difference is unreal. A new Honda would drive better, but with my custom Magnaflow exhaust and the lowered stance, it feels as close to a vintage Ferrari race car that I will ever get. Although a Pantera would be another dream fulfilled. Can't wait to follow the journey on that one.
Interesting. Maybe I should consider adjustables for my little '67 Jaguar 420 compact. Poor thing darts & dives like a WW I biplane. Never had to deal with this sort of thing before. I believe someone installed urethane bushing, but still corners on its door handles.
I helped repair one in Canada in the early eighties. It was a former Hertz rental car and it had been thrashed. They look and sound fantastic , but unfortunately were very rust prone.
Amazing how this old Ferrari still works its magic. Far from fast by today's standards...but far more alluring than modern cars. Glad you enjoyed your drive.
Ciao paisà. When we were boys a 50 years old car was a Model T; now a 50 years old car is something you can desire and enjoy... ps grigio metallizzato... ineccepibilmente pronunciato!
Ultimately I think the 308 was the most iconic post-1960s Ferrari. That’s not to say a 458/488 is unattractive, but the 308 was the definitive exotic for many of us. Fioravanti’s best design? Maybe… Even the 488 had design cues from the 308.
The design IMO is the prettiest i've ever seen. I do think the 288 GTO takes the basic design to the ultimate. The 288 is the ONE car I would have over any other...but for pure Magnum nostalgia, a 308 is top notch. I also find the older style smaller rear quarter slats look better on these 308's
Quite simply; one of the prettiest cars ever to come out of a design house ever. Ditto for the 328 and of course the epitome of this design, the 288GTO - my most favourite of all Ferrari's. This one looks great in grey. The Pantera shares more of its styling with the Jalpa/Silhouette than the GTB - particularly from the rear. To be disappointed with either is a mute point next to what you actually have. All IMHO...
I spent a few days in a GT/4 which had the same chassis and engine - basically a 4 seater version and that engine... that engine... phwoar! The noise! The feel... I will never forget it.
The 308 is still, to me the quintessential Ferrari, an iconic piece of automotive art. I would never sell one if ever I'd have been able to own one. But it served it's purpose for you Jack, and that's ok.
I think you made the right choice with the Pantera. If I were to own a 308, it would definitely be a GTB. The exhaust note would be easy to fix, as would the intake. But the Pantera is a beast. If you want some insight to what owners in the US were doing with them back in the day, check out the book "Panteras for the Road (Survivors Series)" One of the things they address is engine overheating, which they solved the same way Maserati did with the Merak SS via a big vent in the bonnet. Regarding the wheels, the UK magazine Motor liked it best with 215s front and rear. Hearing one start with 180 degree headers is amazing.
Jack, I always knew you were a serious car guy. But when I saw you muck about on the floor of your garage in colder weather to work on your Ferrari, major Kudos. Sure anyone can replace a ROM to see the changes in performance. But that undertaking with your Influenza 308 was a whole new level of Wow, Commitment, & intrepid refurbishment. As for which vehicle (Pantera), IDK. I wish they all could be California girls, I wish we all could be like Jay Leno.
A 1980 GTB was the first Ferrari i had the chance to drive, that was in 1982 and it was a very capable car. I had the chance again probably 20 years later on a track day at Croft, yes, still a very capable car. My abiding memory was how deceptively fast the 308 is with very flat stable handling and this was a hard working track car.
I saw this pop up on my TH-cam feed and thought “Yes Jack, awesome, another 308!!!” But to my dismay it’s just a review, come on Jack do the right thing👍👍👍
Great video, Jack. What a beautiful GTB. So glad your channel has grown to what it is today from that early eBay purchased 308 (the series that got me through a large part of lockdown!). We all miss the Influenzo!
Tires are so critical to the overall critique. The Michelin 205-70 XWX were KING for their era. My dad had the XWX on his 450SE Benz and the car drove fantastically well. Replacement to an XVS ruined the joy of the drive. My tire shop hated the XWX because the sidewall was so stiff that removing them from the wheel was a royal pain - even with all that rubberl! Those 308's were specd for that Michelin. If the factory reissues are true to belt spec, which I would assume that they are, just with improved rubber compounds, to my thinking thats the way to accurately maximize the engineers intent. Beautiful 308 BTW, always thought the B looked so much better than the S. Was shocked at the time to learn that nobody was buying the B's in the States.
"My tire shop hated the XWX because the sidewall was so stiff that removing them from the wheel was a royal pain - even with all that rubberl! " Interesting! Modern Michelin sports tyres like the Pilot Sport 4S have relatively soft sidewalls for the class (softer than Goodyear F1 Super Sport or BS Potenza Sport), significantly softer than the predecessor Pilot Super Sport, so Michelin must have changed philosophy? The BMW Star M cars versions of the PS4S have a stiffer construction though.
Think you did the right thing buying the Pantera Jack. The Pantera is a bit of an hybrid with the Ford engine but it will go down the road very well. Pantera’s are much rearer on the road than 308’s and your Pantera looks really great Jack.
To me, open-top motoring is what a sports car is all about. So I'd have to have a convertible/targa/sunroof. My RX-8 has a moonroof and it's nice to have it open on a nice day.
You have to scratch your Pantera itch, Jack. And once it's up and running, you can flip it for quite a lot of tin. You've sold a lot of old friends (Fred still hurts me), so I reckon you're a love 'em 'n' leave 'em guy now you've a channel to support! ❤
Ah, Jack... Indeed, the B has a more one-of-a-piece feel than the S. I managed a Ferrari dealership when these cars were current, and I can vouch for that. Alas, during that period Ferraris were taking on the character of rolling jewelry; very few of our customers ever extended the cars (which is good, as few of them were capable of that). Personally, I always thought the B was a far more successful styling exercise, looking longer and lower (less chunky) than its brother. I've always thought the best 308 variant was a later QV B (with the soft clutch and longer gear lever) with the deep front spoiler...Euro-spec, of course, as the USA bumpers had a horrid affect on the handling, and with the Goodyears, which felt a bit softer than the Michelins. The QV recovered the lost horespower of the early cars and added flexibility and smoothness (aided hugely by the Bosch injection). Still one of my favorite Ferraris, and not stupidly expensive (yet). Now, about the Pantera... I've owned two of them, both early chrome-bumper ones. One was bog standard and not very impressive, as it flexed and the interior fittings were mediocre at best. Plus, the nose got quite light at speed and the car never felt balanced. My second one had a full-house 302 engine with Gurney Weslake heads, Webers and a convoluted exhaust system, chasis bracing, stiffer dampers/springs and a deep front air dam. Much better handling, but stiff as hell and not built for comfort. Oh, yes, the interior had been upgraded as well, with Recaros and a revised dash layout (with NO radio/stereo!). Still, it was SERIOUSLY fast...and I kept it for about 5 years, so I probably liked it more than I remember. The chap who bought it from me still has it, 30 years on, and is the dreaded outlaw at track events.
Here in North America, the Ford 351C still has a mystique, it wasn't 'lowly' at the time. The weaknesses centred around the bottom end oiling, but in competition, either in drag racing or Nascar, there seemed to be untapped potential. For most uses the smaller valved 2V heads were more useful for street driving, the 4V were for WOT.
Think the word for the Pantera is its more "flamboyant" 308 is still a dream car for me since a child. Looks wise it has it all irrespective of drivability it will always turn heads. That said the Patera you will hear it coming before you see it which will be a real thrill I think.
Thanks Jack, that was very interesting! Really loved the detail you went into about the differences between the GTB and the GTS, and the wheel size. Fascinating! 👌🏻
re the misfire at 7000rpm.... my old GTB had a misfire at higher revs which we eventually diagnosed as a weak fuel pump ( assuming the car you're driving is a Carb car ). Hope that may help the owner.
I came to your channel via your 308 ! The most beautiful car ever made. I am 65yo. I retired and had some 'spare cash' so went to look at buying a 308 GTS. Disaster ! At 6'4" tall I don't fit. I was fine in my old Lotus Esprit S3 but the fabulous 308 ? Nope. Only with the targa off. 😢😢😢
Interesting to hear about your issues with cowl shake/feedback. I was fairly alarmed at it with my 308, but friends told me it was normal. I agree that it feels very... not good. But knowing that's what it is supposed to be like, eh, it's fine with me, if that makes sense. I love my 308, personally, it's such a great car to drive.
I owned a red 308 GTS.. Corgi car as a kid!! Always wanted one as an adult. I think the car you're driving is stunning in (gunmetal?)grey and avoids the obvious 'Magnum' connotations!!
Great video, and great car, but going Pantera was the right choice. Btw, those are Heuer timers, from pre-Tag Heuer days, and they don't look fake. Could be wrong, but I have a couple of originals myself...
I've been with you since the first Ferrari adventure. It's nice to "close the circle" so to speak with this GTB. Looking forward to your final pronouncements on the Pantera comparison.
You have answered every question I've had regarding the GTS/GTB differences and are beginning to fulfill my questions to the differences between the 308 and the Pantera, so I'm looking forward to more content on these cars. I think I'm still going to want a Pantera even if I had a 308 GTB.
Great video Jack, i love the 308 GTB, a gorgeous looking timeless beauty from every angle. The test cars engine noise is extremely disappointing probably due to US regs!! If i had a chance I'd snap one up in that colour or silver and get the engine/exhaust sorted! Talking about colour, when i first saw the green Pantera colour i actually felt it was a ruddy awful decision, however, having seen it again briefly in this video it seems ok now!!!😂
Dear Jack, Thank you very much for your very nice Video about the 308 GTB. You are right. The driving is more sports car like in the GTB. To me design wise the GTB also looks much more balanced. I bought my 308 GTB about the same time you got the Infuenzo and I loved watching your Videos about the Ferrari. But changes come and nothing remains as it is. Now I‘m really curious about the Pantera! Best regards from northern Germany! Marc
Thank you, Alpustuner or, as Elton John said, "I can tell by your eyes you must be lying" - then came the momentary hesitation the tiny moment of silence and your sudden break in eye contact, Jack, when you asked yourself (and the viewers) whether you should have gone GTB rather than Pantera - from my perspective, it all spoke volumes! If polygrams actually worked and you'd been hooked-up to one, Jack, then my suspicion is that you'd be leaning distinctly towards a replacement GTB rather than your Pantera, never mind the colour/engine-note of the latter! Either way, it's great fun to speculate and many thanks for the amazing quality of your content, fasinating insights and mischievous rhetorical questions. What do other viewers think - am I correct? Oh, and by the way, you can trust me, I'm a doctor! Dr. Nigel H Williams
As he said, it's a bit of Stockholm Syndrome at play. It's rather like owning an old Alfa - liable to leave you stranded at the side of the road, spends more time in the shop than in your garage...and yet you still want it, for that one fleeting moment when it all works properly and it's a joy to drive. And then it all goes to shit and you're broke from trying to fix it so you can recapture that one moment again. We love these sorts of cars - in my case, it was a heavily modified classic Mini that just about ruined me...and yes, I still miss it. I'll likely never buy one again, but I certainly _want_ to.
I am going to disagree with many who have commented. To my eyes the 308 is not only better looking but is more exotic than than the Pantera. Certainly in standard tune the flatplane V8 sounds more like a 4cyl engine but then again the American Ford V8 engine is just an American V8 and nothing all that special either. From car reviews in the day also the Pantera was slated for its tricky handling, unlike the Ferrari, so if I had the spare money (which I don’t), I would have the Ferrari any day over the Pantera. Maybe do the Pantera project, enjoy the process and then move it for something more exotic. Perhaps try a Lamborghini ??
For a '77 steering wheel not original should have white stitching, horn button should have chrome surround,stance looks slightly lowered maybe due to tyres? Great cars though,the early dry sump models highly collectable... Remember when nobody wanted 246 Dino's ,now 300-500K !
I suspect that interior could be original. While most 308's got Connolly leather a small number got hides tanned by Schedoni who was known for the luggage on the 308's. Looking at it my first impression is that this may be one of those rarely optioned cars. 308 GTB owner for the past 23 years and loving every minute of it.
Another excellent review it just shows how an open top can really be challenging and cheese having only driven a 328 and 308 and found both great.Your buying the panthera is definitely a good move although you were unlucky with the engine but at least those are not Ferrari prices to fix them
I think it clearly makes good business sense to have bought the Pantera rather than a GTB. I watch a TH-cam car channel to see various interesting cars and with an informative and likeable presenter, ideally with videos no longer than 20 minutes. The GTB is a better looking car than the GTS, but pleased for you that all the money you spent on it was ultimately worthwhile in making the channel a success.
This is a beautiful car without a doubt. The colour is nice and the interior seats and door cards look great as a contrast to the exterior. I agree it is a bit 'limp' sound wise but that could be improved should the owner wish. I don't think you should regret selling your car , that was one era and now you have moved on to something new and exciting which we will all look forward to the progress of as and when you post updates. As I often say 'life is too short' do what you feel is right for you Jack. Thanks for doing this review Jack. 👍👍
Looks pretty quick, for it's time. Cars have improved immensely since then. My MX5 ND 0 to 60 time is 5.7s, vs 5.8 for a 308 GTB (may vary by year). 0 to 60 is not the whole story, but it gives an idea of the magnitude of the change in 45-50 years
I hate the closed in, cramped feeling I get in a car without an open roof, but don't like convertibles, so all my cars have always had a sunroof. My Brera with a pan roof is very much a compromise, but my daily Accord and GTV6 all have sunroofs. I think I would have been able to forgive a lot of the scuttle shake of your 308 and looked to stiffen the chassis and keep that open top driving experience.
I prefer the rasp of the Ferrari! I generally prefer flatplane V8s in general (Cosworth DFV etc), crossplane V8s sound a bit wrong instead of like two inline-fours joined together as a V8 "should" sound IMO.
The 308 and 512BB represent my favourite era for Ferrari - they just look so utterly beautiful. Should you have sold yours? Yes - you obviously had a Pantera itch to scratch - and I think that your car, when complete will more than achieve that.
For what it’s worth, and as nice as the 308 was (is), your Pantera is gorgeous. Especially in that lime green paintwork. And De Tomaso are slightly more left field than Ferrari, so it’s cooler overall.
My three favourite mid-engined ferraris are the Dino 206 (not really a ferrari) the 308, and the 360. Three different generations on a theme, but not all chopped up to look the part. The 206 is particularly delicate looking and is absolute tops in my book. As for the scuttle shake. I have owned a Fiat 124 spider and a 124 coupe. the Spider had a shorter wheelbase and seemed to handle worse due of it. Too much scuttle shake and it made the car nose heavy in comparison to length.
For so many years I've been wondering which one I preferred between 308 and Pantera, And which one I would try to get. I thought that no answer was possible, because those cars were influencing two different parts of my brain. one making vibrate my reptilian one, like techno music: loud, rough, animal... and the other inspiring to me delicacy, perfect balance, shade, pure art, like Vivaldi.... I had both, one after the other. First one was the Pantera. I had a 66 Mustang previously, and I was convinced that maintenance would be easier and more affordable than the one of the 308 . And... she made me crazy about her. I was able to wake up in the night, only to start and listen to her incredible sound... but I have to admit that, after a while, I became bored. Flash in the pan put out quicker than I thought. Then, I spent several years to get information about self maintenance on the 308, and I finally decided to make the jump. Since that time (2021), I live a perfect love affair with a 77 euro GTB. Even more than a love affair: I feel the love story of a lifetime. At a first sight, those two cars seem to share some common points, but they don't. Their foundation are opposite, incompatible and irreconcilable. It's impossible to compare a short term kit conception, appealing (so incredible and powerful) base instincts, and a descendant in the noblest lineage of sport cars. I deeply respect techno music, but I couldn't live constantly with it in my ears. I will, with Vivaldi ;-)
The 351 Cleveland is not lowly Jack. 😁 Simple, durable and capable of good power. All the while being easy to maintain. The Pantera, 308 and 308 gt4 are 3 of my all time favorites. Nice as always Jack.
The 308 gtb along with the Dino 246 my favourite Ferraris, just beautiful. Now for something really different would love you to get your hands on a DS23 or CX 2.5 GTI. Maybe an Alfa 164 or Lancia Gamma coupe.
Hi Jack, although thats a pretty car im afraid i loved the look & colour of your 308! Alway been a fan of the Magnum Ferrari since i was a child but still out of reach for me at the moment. Ill have to be doing with my Aston DB9 for now! Great vid as usual!👍👏👏👏♥️
I don't really buy cnvts./open cars anymore. Except maybe a Fiat 124. Full cnvts. always look better with the top up to me. That gray Ferrari coupe sure is great looking. Anyway, I love the way you explain things about cars. Thanks!
That's a very simple question to answer. If you, in the evening, think: 'yes! I'm gonna drive my [insert here] tomorrow!', it's a good'un. If you think: 'well, I'd better drive it tomorrow, the battery needs charging', sell it. That's the only criterium. Driving a classic should be like Une Belle Histoire, a blindingly being in love first romance. If it's not that, don't marry her. You only get one chance, mum's spaghetti.
Jack, i did that road to charlbury last week which is now named after you. Brilliant video, totally agree the 308 is a beautiful car. The Panthera is a head turner bigtime and such an exciting project.
It certainly seems to run better; those pops and bangs from the old GTS' exhaust were never right. Many cars were converted to 16" wheels but it was more because correctly rated 205/14 tyres became unavailable than for any handling advantage. I think they were much nicer on the 14s, either XWX or Comp T/A.
I dont think you should regret selling Influenza. It was a great story but the Pantera is going to be a great story too and you will get that really masculine American V8-cross crank sound. I've understood the Panteras are quite ok by handling. And the story is really you getting the car going. I also believe it is going to be quite a lot easier car to work on than the 308 was*. Later on, what you really should get to drive for comparison is something like 1968 Camaro SS or Z28 with a trick carburetor and a tuned exhaust with the kinda sound that will make pants drop from fertile girls. *I wonder why Peugeot did not complain about the numbering back at 1975.
The 308GTB would have been my choice. Don't have too much of a problem with the flat-plane sound, although a different exhaust might help. But I think the Pantera would make a interesting project car with a lot of options for engine tuning at an affordable price.
Early ferraris are marmite either you love them or you not that impressed or don't understand them . I worked on them and drove them back in the day. Great design thats what drew me to them but like they say never meet your heros . Great vid also love the Pantera another great design hopefully your making progress. 👍
Even though I adore the 308, I think you made the right choice. And the Muira green is an inspired choice, and like everyone, I am chomping at the bit to see more of her.
I'm 46 years old, and since I was a child, a 308 is what I always drew when I wanted to draw a sports car :) Now, 40 years later, the 308 is STILL the quintessential sports car shape for me. What a beautiful and timeless masterpiece of design!
Agree! Although it's clearly a classic Ferrari it looks very tasty today😊
I am 48, grew up with cannonball run, smokey and the bandit, magnum pi, the A team, and yes the Duke boys. The 308 has been a lifelong dream. When I could've afforded one, I was too busy, now I can't afford one
Agreed I’m now 50 and grew up Magnum PI. If the lottery came in it would be my first choice !
What is that whining noise in the car ? Sounds like an expensive problem 😢
I agree there. 45 now myself magnum pi, cannonball run and who can forget lampoons vacation.
*I WOULD STILL HAVE ONE OF THESE* over any modern Ferrari - they are just SO pretty and so beautifully balanced to look at.
I would too but the F40 would be the exception 😊
I agree about the wheel size influencing the handling. One must remember that the suspension was designed to work with a tall sidewall, and so the amount of camber and caster you get throughout the suspension travel takes this into account. One can usually get away with an inch more diameter (along with the requisite decrease in sidewall height), but two can be pushing your luck - it usually ends up as something that doesn't grip quite as well, is less progressive at the limit, and has a tendency to dart across the road if it's bumpy. If you want to find out how good the design really is - keep it stock.
You are absolutely right about the wheels looking better as 14 inches
So many restomod builders blow it by fitting modern sized wheels and tires that look terrible on the older body
That happens a lot. I like nice rims as much as the next person, and I'm open to modern improvements and resto-mods. But there is such a thing as design language. CarTok is very bad that way. A lot of beautiful older cars shown there are disfigured by way too big rims and thin tires. 22" just look wrong on an E38 etc.
Absolutely loving the channel, my one critique would be that the separate chapters spoil the flow of the videos. If the video and corresponding chapters were longer it wouldn't be a problem. Regardless of that I will continue to watch and enjoy your video. All the best R
From a viewer POV the 308 has left a gap in the channel that hasn't yet been filled. Hopefully that will change as the Pantera updates grow
There are a few Panteras around here. They have so much presence. I’ve never owned a V8 car, but there’s something to be said about solid reliable torque. You have made the right choice.
I had a 1979 Agento (silver) 308 GTB in 1990 , immediately had a ‘Nigel Mansell Ferrari ‘ engine rebuild with ‘sports pack‘ 326BHP on the dyno . I did 50,000miles in 5 years as it was my only car , it pulled 7,600rpm and screamed like the devil was having a bad day . I sold it to a friend at 178 ,000 miles , they love to be used ……hard . Happy days .
What did you do to sell the car at 178,000 miles? Take it to his house in several tea chests? I have never heard of a Ferrari beat out nearly 200,000 miles unless its the equivalent of triggers broom.
@@deepindercheema4917Trigger's broom 😂😂😂
@@soyebaswat5382 lmaooooooooooooooo and true.
I enjoyed going down the 308 memory lane Jack! I love watching everything you did with the Influenzo but I can't wait to see your content with the Pantera! Exciting stuff to come, I'm sure!
Hey dude.. those were golden times. The crazyness of lockdown and having my first Ferrari!!
"Where I live all the roads are really quite bumpy" - welcome to Britain.
Glad to see you in a 308 again, albeit temporarily. Looking forward to seeing more of the Pantera soon!
You should see the roads in the States. Most of our infrastructure is 3rd world at best.
I grew up in a 308GTB in custom green (possibly the only one made in that specific finish) as a kid.
Mannn this brings back memories.
I spent last winter installing adjustable coilovers on my GTSi, as well as replacing all of the bushings, steering rack and brakes. The thing drives like a new car. The difference is unreal. A new Honda would drive better, but with my custom Magnaflow exhaust and the lowered stance, it feels as close to a vintage Ferrari race car that I will ever get. Although a Pantera would be another dream fulfilled. Can't wait to follow the journey on that one.
Interesting. Maybe I should consider adjustables for my little '67 Jaguar 420 compact. Poor thing darts & dives like a WW I biplane.
Never had to deal with this sort of thing before. I believe someone installed urethane bushing, but still corners on its door handles.
Honestly that Pantera is just the most beautiful car ever made ,its a piece of art in my eyes ,outstanding
The 308 is, not the Pantera
I helped repair one in Canada in the early eighties. It was a former Hertz rental car and it had been thrashed. They look and sound fantastic , but unfortunately were very rust prone.
Amazing how this old Ferrari still works its magic. Far from fast by today's standards...but far more alluring than modern cars. Glad you enjoyed your drive.
To me, these Ferraris (328, 308, etc.) with that gorgeous side air intake are still the prettiest.
We’re all waiting for more Pantera content! When are you gonna feature the Pantera like you did the Influenzo?
Beautiful colour combo. 😍😍😍 Dark grey or dark blue…that’s how my Ferraris come. :)
3:34 Ooh! That gated shifter sound! It's like the bolt of a Sako sniper rifle.🤤
Ciao paisà. When we were boys a 50 years old car was a Model T; now a 50 years old car is something you can desire and enjoy... ps grigio metallizzato... ineccepibilmente pronunciato!
Ultimately I think the 308 was the most iconic post-1960s Ferrari. That’s not to say a 458/488 is unattractive, but the 308 was the definitive exotic for many of us. Fioravanti’s best design? Maybe… Even the 488 had design cues from the 308.
The design IMO is the prettiest i've ever seen. I do think the 288 GTO takes the basic design to the ultimate. The 288 is the ONE car I would have over any other...but for pure Magnum nostalgia, a 308 is top notch. I also find the older style smaller rear quarter slats look better on these 308's
Better than any Ferrari made today! A time when people understand and appreciate cars built for human enjoyment vs numbers.
Quite simply; one of the prettiest cars ever to come out of a design house ever. Ditto for the 328 and of course the epitome of this design, the 288GTO - my most favourite of all Ferrari's. This one looks great in grey.
The Pantera shares more of its styling with the Jalpa/Silhouette than the GTB - particularly from the rear. To be disappointed with either is a mute point next to what you actually have. All IMHO...
I agree 100% with this comment. My old boss's 328 GTB was the first exotic car I was a passenger in. An amazing experience.
You basically said all the right things here.
I spent a few days in a GT/4 which had the same chassis and engine - basically a 4 seater version and that engine... that engine... phwoar! The noise! The feel... I will never forget it.
The early-mid 70s California emission regulations likely killed the 7600rpm limit with that intake baffle and maybe timing changes.
I have to say the Urraco sounded much better, I like the brutal Urraco looks too
The 308 is still, to me the quintessential Ferrari, an iconic piece of automotive art.
I would never sell one if ever I'd have been able to own one. But it served it's purpose for you Jack, and that's ok.
I think you made the right choice with the Pantera. If I were to own a 308, it would definitely be a GTB. The exhaust note would be easy to fix, as would the intake.
But the Pantera is a beast. If you want some insight to what owners in the US were doing with them back in the day, check out the book "Panteras for the Road (Survivors Series)" One of the things they address is engine overheating, which they solved the same way Maserati did with the Merak SS via a big vent in the bonnet.
Regarding the wheels, the UK magazine Motor liked it best with 215s front and rear.
Hearing one start with 180 degree headers is amazing.
Jack, I always knew you were a serious car guy. But when I saw you muck about on the floor of your garage in colder weather to work on your Ferrari, major Kudos. Sure anyone can replace a ROM to see the changes in performance. But that undertaking with your Influenza 308 was a whole new level of Wow, Commitment, & intrepid refurbishment. As for which vehicle (Pantera), IDK. I wish they all could be California girls, I wish we all could be like Jay Leno.
A 1980 GTB was the first Ferrari i had the chance to drive, that was in 1982 and it was a very capable car. I had the chance again probably 20 years later on a track day at Croft, yes, still a very capable car. My abiding memory was how deceptively fast the 308 is with very flat stable handling and this was a hard working track car.
I saw this pop up on my TH-cam feed and thought “Yes Jack, awesome, another 308!!!” But to my dismay it’s just a review, come on Jack do the right thing👍👍👍
I very much appreciate that you are willing and able to roll up your sleeves and work on your cars. That is uncommon among car programs.
Great video, Jack. What a beautiful GTB. So glad your channel has grown to what it is today from that early eBay purchased 308 (the series that got me through a large part of lockdown!). We all miss the Influenzo!
Tires are so critical to the overall critique. The Michelin 205-70 XWX were KING for their era. My dad had the XWX on his 450SE Benz and the car drove fantastically well. Replacement to an XVS ruined the joy of the drive. My tire shop hated the XWX because the sidewall was so stiff that removing them from the wheel was a royal pain - even with all that rubberl! Those 308's were specd for that Michelin. If the factory reissues are true to belt spec, which I would assume that they are, just with improved rubber compounds, to my thinking thats the way to accurately maximize the engineers intent. Beautiful 308 BTW, always thought the B looked so much better than the S. Was shocked at the time to learn that nobody was buying the B's in the States.
Yes correct, the Michelin XWX was THE sports car/uber saloon tyre. We had 1976 BMW 3.0Si and ran many sets of VR rated XWXs and it was fantastic !!
"My tire shop hated the XWX because the sidewall was so stiff that removing them from the wheel was a royal pain - even with all that rubberl! " Interesting! Modern Michelin sports tyres like the Pilot Sport 4S have relatively soft sidewalls for the class (softer than Goodyear F1 Super Sport or BS Potenza Sport), significantly softer than the predecessor Pilot Super Sport, so Michelin must have changed philosophy? The BMW Star M cars versions of the PS4S have a stiffer construction though.
Jack, yet another great and honest review, I owned a 328GTS for 6 years and loved it. Your video bought back all the memories! ❤
Think you did the right thing buying the Pantera Jack. The Pantera is a bit of an hybrid with the Ford engine but it will go down the road very well. Pantera’s are much rearer on the road than 308’s and your Pantera looks really great Jack.
To me, open-top motoring is what a sports car is all about. So I'd have to have a convertible/targa/sunroof. My RX-8 has a moonroof and it's nice to have it open on a nice day.
You have to scratch your Pantera itch, Jack. And once it's up and running, you can flip it for quite a lot of tin. You've sold a lot of old friends (Fred still hurts me), so I reckon you're a love 'em 'n' leave 'em guy now you've a channel to support! ❤
The Pantera is something extra special. I love the 308 but Pantera is girlfriend you could never get but always wanted.
My 1984 308GTS QV did not fulfill my soul, my 1975 308 GT4 IS the car I miss! The longer wheelbase and carbs that made more power is what I miss.
Lovely colour combo of this one. They do sound like a Fiat X1/9 on steroids - two four pot screamers working together
Ah, Jack... Indeed, the B has a more one-of-a-piece feel than the S. I managed a Ferrari dealership when these cars were current, and I can vouch for that. Alas, during that period Ferraris were taking on the character of rolling jewelry; very few of our customers ever extended the cars (which is good, as few of them were capable of that). Personally, I always thought the B was a far more successful styling exercise, looking longer and lower (less chunky) than its brother. I've always thought the best 308 variant was a later QV B (with the soft clutch and longer gear lever) with the deep front spoiler...Euro-spec, of course, as the USA bumpers had a horrid affect on the handling, and with the Goodyears, which felt a bit softer than the Michelins. The QV recovered the lost horespower of the early cars and added flexibility and smoothness (aided hugely by the Bosch injection). Still one of my favorite Ferraris, and not stupidly expensive (yet).
Now, about the Pantera... I've owned two of them, both early chrome-bumper ones. One was bog standard and not very impressive, as it flexed and the interior fittings were mediocre at best. Plus, the nose got quite light at speed and the car never felt balanced. My second one had a full-house 302 engine with Gurney Weslake heads, Webers and a convoluted exhaust system, chasis bracing, stiffer dampers/springs and a deep front air dam. Much better handling, but stiff as hell and not built for comfort. Oh, yes, the interior had been upgraded as well, with Recaros and a revised dash layout (with NO radio/stereo!). Still, it was SERIOUSLY fast...and I kept it for about 5 years, so I probably liked it more than I remember. The chap who bought it from me still has it, 30 years on, and is the dreaded outlaw at track events.
Here in North America, the Ford 351C still has a mystique, it wasn't 'lowly' at the time. The weaknesses centred around the bottom end oiling, but in competition, either in drag racing or Nascar, there seemed to be untapped potential. For most uses the smaller valved 2V heads were more useful for street driving, the 4V were for WOT.
The 308 was my boyhood poster car, there is just nothing on the road that comes close to it for looks.
Pantera looks just as good
@@LOTPOR0402 Hell no.
3:08 - "But..." *hits massive pothole* "... it should be stiff enough." 😁😁😁
Think the word for the Pantera is its more "flamboyant" 308 is still a dream car for me since a child. Looks wise it has it all irrespective of drivability it will always turn heads. That said the Patera you will hear it coming before you see it which will be a real thrill I think.
Thanks Jack, that was very interesting! Really loved the detail you went into about the differences between the GTB and the GTS, and the wheel size. Fascinating! 👌🏻
re the misfire at 7000rpm.... my old GTB had a misfire at higher revs which we eventually diagnosed as a weak fuel pump ( assuming the car you're driving is a Carb car ). Hope that may help the owner.
I came to your channel via your 308 ! The most beautiful car ever made.
I am 65yo. I retired and had some 'spare cash' so went to look at buying a 308 GTS. Disaster ! At 6'4" tall I don't fit. I was fine in my old Lotus Esprit S3 but the fabulous 308 ? Nope. Only with the targa off. 😢😢😢
Interesting to hear about your issues with cowl shake/feedback. I was fairly alarmed at it with my 308, but friends told me it was normal. I agree that it feels very... not good. But knowing that's what it is supposed to be like, eh, it's fine with me, if that makes sense. I love my 308, personally, it's such a great car to drive.
I owned a red 308 GTS.. Corgi car as a kid!! Always wanted one as an adult. I think the car you're driving is stunning in (gunmetal?)grey and avoids the obvious 'Magnum' connotations!!
It's always good to see Ferrari content.
Great video, and great car, but going Pantera was the right choice. Btw, those are Heuer timers, from pre-Tag Heuer days, and they don't look fake. Could be wrong, but I have a couple of originals myself...
Definitely fake… the backs are plastic and they feel cheap.
I've been with you since the first Ferrari adventure. It's nice to "close the circle" so to speak with this GTB. Looking forward to your final pronouncements on the Pantera comparison.
Thomas Magnum needed a GTS to be seen, like 007 in the special Toyota 2000GT. 😀
Loving these new format videos jack😊best wishes from 🇮🇳
Glad you like them! Thanks buddy!!
You have answered every question I've had regarding the GTS/GTB differences and are beginning to fulfill my questions to the differences between the 308 and the Pantera, so I'm looking forward to more content on these cars. I think I'm still going to want a Pantera even if I had a 308 GTB.
Great video Jack, i love the 308 GTB, a gorgeous looking timeless beauty from every angle. The test cars engine noise is extremely disappointing probably due to US regs!! If i had a chance I'd snap one up in that colour or silver and get the engine/exhaust sorted! Talking about colour, when i first saw the green Pantera colour i actually felt it was a ruddy awful decision, however, having seen it again briefly in this video it seems ok now!!!😂
Dear Jack,
Thank you very much for your very nice Video about the 308 GTB. You are right. The driving is more sports car like in the GTB. To me design wise the GTB also looks much more balanced.
I bought my 308 GTB about the same time you got the Infuenzo and I loved watching your Videos about the Ferrari.
But changes come and nothing remains as it is. Now I‘m really curious about the Pantera!
Best regards from northern Germany!
Marc
Thank you, Alpustuner or, as Elton John said, "I can tell by your eyes you must be lying" - then came the momentary hesitation the tiny moment of silence and your sudden break in eye contact, Jack, when you asked yourself (and the viewers) whether you should have gone GTB rather than Pantera - from my perspective, it all spoke volumes! If polygrams actually worked and you'd been hooked-up to one, Jack, then my suspicion is that you'd be leaning distinctly towards a replacement GTB rather than your Pantera, never mind the colour/engine-note of the latter!
Either way, it's great fun to speculate and many thanks for the amazing quality of your content, fasinating insights and mischievous rhetorical questions. What do other viewers think - am I correct? Oh, and by the way, you can trust me, I'm a doctor! Dr. Nigel H Williams
As he said, it's a bit of Stockholm Syndrome at play. It's rather like owning an old Alfa - liable to leave you stranded at the side of the road, spends more time in the shop than in your garage...and yet you still want it, for that one fleeting moment when it all works properly and it's a joy to drive. And then it all goes to shit and you're broke from trying to fix it so you can recapture that one moment again. We love these sorts of cars - in my case, it was a heavily modified classic Mini that just about ruined me...and yes, I still miss it. I'll likely never buy one again, but I certainly _want_ to.
If I had a red 308 GTS, I'd be playing the Magnum PI theme everywhere I went.
I am going to disagree with many who have commented. To my eyes the 308 is not only better looking but is more exotic than than the Pantera. Certainly in standard tune the flatplane V8 sounds more like a 4cyl engine but then again the American Ford V8 engine is just an American V8 and nothing all that special either. From car reviews in the day also the Pantera was slated for its tricky handling, unlike the Ferrari, so if I had the spare money (which I don’t), I would have the Ferrari any day over the Pantera.
Maybe do the Pantera project, enjoy the process and then move it for something more exotic. Perhaps try a Lamborghini ??
For a '77 steering wheel not original should have white stitching, horn button should have chrome surround,stance looks slightly lowered maybe due to tyres? Great cars though,the early dry sump models highly collectable... Remember when nobody wanted 246 Dino's ,now 300-500K !
I suspect that interior could be original. While most 308's got Connolly leather a small number got hides tanned by Schedoni who was known for the luggage on the 308's. Looking at it my first impression is that this may be one of those rarely optioned cars. 308 GTB owner for the past 23 years and loving every minute of it.
This is a lovely car! It always was one of my favorites, but in these colors and with this interior trim it is beautiful!
Another excellent review it just shows how an open top can really be challenging and cheese having only driven a 328 and 308 and found both great.Your buying the panthera is definitely a good move although you were unlucky with the engine but at least those are not Ferrari prices to fix them
Still a beautiful car, the GTB's are pretty tough to come by here in North America, the values have skyrocketed.
And then there is the rust and neglect..
I think it clearly makes good business sense to have bought the Pantera rather than a GTB. I watch a TH-cam car channel to see various interesting cars and with an informative and likeable presenter, ideally with videos no longer than 20 minutes. The GTB is a better looking car than the GTS, but pleased for you that all the money you spent on it was ultimately worthwhile in making the channel a success.
Yep I had a carb gtb in Rosso with Nero leather , first owner was Peter frampton . Loved it.. but you need rhd to hear the induction.
This is a beautiful car without a doubt. The colour is nice and the interior seats and door cards look great as a contrast to the exterior. I agree it is a bit 'limp' sound wise but that could be improved should the owner wish. I don't think you should regret selling your car , that was one era and now you have moved on to something new and exciting which we will all look forward to the progress of as and when you post updates. As I often say 'life is too short' do what you feel is right for you Jack. Thanks for doing this review Jack. 👍👍
Looks pretty quick, for it's time. Cars have improved immensely since then. My MX5 ND 0 to 60 time is 5.7s, vs 5.8 for a 308 GTB (may vary by year). 0 to 60 is not the whole story, but it gives an idea of the magnitude of the change in 45-50 years
I hate the closed in, cramped feeling I get in a car without an open roof, but don't like convertibles, so all my cars have always had a sunroof. My Brera with a pan roof is very much a compromise, but my daily Accord and GTV6 all have sunroofs. I think I would have been able to forgive a lot of the scuttle shake of your 308 and looked to stiffen the chassis and keep that open top driving experience.
308 makes me always think of Magnum PI tv show 😍 The pantera sounds so much better!! Great video 👍
At 1:25, you made the right decision getting the Pantera. It sounds soooooo much better than the Ferrari!!
And more exclusive
I prefer the rasp of the Ferrari! I generally prefer flatplane V8s in general (Cosworth DFV etc), crossplane V8s sound a bit wrong instead of like two inline-fours joined together as a V8 "should" sound IMO.
Thank you for this video! Amazing sound! I think that the Pantera is comparable to a 308 with its interesting history and nice shape!
Looks and sounds lovely to me. Great colour for that car too!
The 308 and 512BB represent my favourite era for Ferrari - they just look so utterly beautiful. Should you have sold yours? Yes - you obviously had a Pantera itch to scratch - and I think that your car, when complete will more than achieve that.
Those Tag Heuer stop watches are for TSD rallying, not for racing.
Good review loved the influenza series . 308 looks classy in grey but a Ferrari imho gotta be red .
Cool car. I had Mondial QV with an aftermarket exhaust.
It had a wicked sound. If I had space (and money) I too would have another.
For what it’s worth, and as nice as the 308 was (is), your Pantera is gorgeous. Especially in that lime green paintwork. And De Tomaso are slightly more left field than Ferrari, so it’s cooler overall.
My three favourite mid-engined ferraris are the Dino 206 (not really a ferrari) the 308, and the 360. Three different generations on a theme, but not all chopped up to look the part. The 206 is particularly delicate looking and is absolute tops in my book.
As for the scuttle shake. I have owned a Fiat 124 spider and a 124 coupe. the Spider had a shorter wheelbase and seemed to handle worse due of it. Too much scuttle shake and it made the car nose heavy in comparison to length.
For so many years I've been wondering which one I preferred between 308 and Pantera, And which one I would try to get. I thought that no answer was possible, because those cars were influencing two different parts of my brain. one making vibrate my reptilian one, like techno music: loud, rough, animal... and the other inspiring to me delicacy, perfect balance, shade, pure art, like Vivaldi.... I had both, one after the other. First one was the Pantera. I had a 66 Mustang previously, and I was convinced that maintenance would be easier and more affordable than the one of the 308 . And... she made me crazy about her. I was able to wake up in the night, only to start and listen to her incredible sound... but I have to admit that, after a while, I became bored. Flash in the pan put out quicker than I thought. Then, I spent several years to get information about self maintenance on the 308, and I finally decided to make the jump. Since that time (2021), I live a perfect love affair with a 77 euro GTB. Even more than a love affair: I feel the love story of a lifetime.
At a first sight, those two cars seem to share some common points, but they don't. Their foundation are opposite, incompatible and irreconcilable. It's impossible to compare a short term kit conception, appealing (so incredible and powerful) base instincts, and a descendant in the noblest lineage of sport cars.
I deeply respect techno music, but I couldn't live constantly with it in my ears. I will, with Vivaldi ;-)
The 351 Cleveland is not lowly Jack. 😁 Simple, durable and capable of good power. All the while being easy to maintain. The Pantera, 308 and 308 gt4 are 3 of my all time favorites. Nice as always Jack.
The 308 gtb along with the Dino 246 my favourite Ferraris, just beautiful. Now for something really different would love you to get your hands on a DS23 or CX 2.5 GTI. Maybe an Alfa 164 or Lancia Gamma coupe.
Hi Jack, although thats a pretty car im afraid i loved the look & colour of your 308!
Alway been a fan of the Magnum Ferrari since i was a child but still out of reach for me at the moment. Ill have to be doing with my Aston DB9 for now! Great vid as usual!👍👏👏👏♥️
I don't really buy cnvts./open cars anymore. Except maybe a Fiat 124.
Full cnvts. always look better with the top up to me. That gray Ferrari coupe sure is great looking. Anyway, I love the way you explain things about cars. Thanks!
That looked so good in the action video from the front
That's a very simple question to answer. If you, in the evening, think: 'yes! I'm gonna drive my [insert here] tomorrow!', it's a good'un. If you think: 'well, I'd better drive it tomorrow, the battery needs charging', sell it. That's the only criterium.
Driving a classic should be like Une Belle Histoire, a blindingly being in love first romance. If it's not that, don't marry her. You only get one chance, mum's spaghetti.
This guy cars.
Jack, i did that road to charlbury last week which is now named after you. Brilliant video, totally agree the 308 is a beautiful car. The Panthera is a head turner bigtime and such an exciting project.
It certainly seems to run better; those pops and bangs from the old GTS' exhaust were never right. Many cars were converted to 16" wheels but it was more because correctly rated 205/14 tyres became unavailable than for any handling advantage. I think they were much nicer on the 14s, either XWX or Comp T/A.
I dont think you should regret selling Influenza. It was a great story but the Pantera is going to be a great story too and you will get that really masculine American V8-cross crank sound. I've understood the Panteras are quite ok by handling. And the story is really you getting the car going. I also believe it is going to be quite a lot easier car to work on than the 308 was*.
Later on, what you really should get to drive for comparison is something like 1968 Camaro SS or Z28 with a trick carburetor and a tuned exhaust with the kinda sound that will make pants drop from fertile girls.
*I wonder why Peugeot did not complain about the numbering back at 1975.
We reckon that Interior would have been originally red Jack. We agree the original wheels are best too. Great review as always.
Thanks dude 🙏
You are so right about the wheels and tyres. It is a better looker, and dare I say, a superior handler?
The 308GTB would have been my choice. Don't have too much of a problem with the flat-plane sound, although a different exhaust might help. But I think the Pantera would make a interesting project car with a lot of options for engine tuning at an affordable price.
That lowly Ford V8 , the 351 Cleveland 4V, made 375 hp on the dyno in 1971 .
Early ferraris are marmite either you love them or you not that impressed or don't understand them . I worked on them and drove them back in the day. Great design thats what drew me to them but like they say never meet your heros . Great vid also love the Pantera another great design hopefully your making progress. 👍
An Influenzo started a true Influencer!
(Please take this in the spirit that it's meant lol)
Greetings from the Netherlands
Wonderful video as always 😊
Even though I adore the 308, I think you made the right choice. And the Muira green is an inspired choice, and like everyone, I am chomping at the bit to see more of her.
Jack elected to go with the original Pantera Lime Green and not the more 'electric' Miura Lime Green.
The 308 makes this channel feel right 😊
You made a great choice! You save money on the Pantera!