Ferrari 328 GTS (1989)

The 328 GTS model, together with the fixed roof 328 GTB, were the final developments of the normally aspirated transverse V8 engine 2-seat series. The 328 figures in the model title referred to the total cubic capacity of the engine, 3.2 litres, and 8 for the number of cylinders. The new model was introduced at the 1985 Frankfurt Salon alongside the Mondial 3.2 series.

Essentially the new model was a revised and updated version of the 308 GTS, which had survived for eight years without any radical change to the overall shape, albeit with various changes to the 3-litre engine. The 328 model presented a softening of the wedge profile of its predecessor, with a redesigned nose that had a more rounded shape, which was complemented by similar treatment to the tail valance panel. The revised nose and tail sections featured body colour bumpers integral with the valance panels. The exhaust air louvres behind the retractable headlight pods on the 308 series disappeared, coupled with an increase in the size of the front lid radiator exhaust air louvre, which had been introduced on the 308 Quattrovalvole models, whilst a new style and position of exterior door catch was also provided. The interior trim also had a thorough overhaul, with new designs for the seat panel upholstery and stitching, revised door panels and pulls, together with more modern switchgear, which complemented the external updating details.

This ABS equipped 1989 example was supplied new by Strattons in January of '89 to a Mr Hampton of Cheshire. Mr Hampton would keep the 328 until 1993 when the car passed to a Malcolm Oakes with 1,500 miles. (As attested to by the MOT of the time). In the space of Mr Oakes ownership which lasted 8 years, until 2001 the car was registered on "57 GTO" and covered just 600 miles (and was still regularly main dealer serviced). This 328 GTS passed to its 3rd owner in 2001, this brief ownership spell lasted just 6 months and a further 800 miles. In April 2001 the car was purchased by its 4th owner a Mr Grimshaw of Christchurch with 2,900 miles from new. Mr Grimshaw owned the car for 9 years, in which period the car was regularly expertly maintained and entered into Concours events, in which the car unsurprisingly did well. In 2010 the car was sold by the 328 and Dino Specialist Nick Cartwright, at this time with 9,800 miles. Having had 2 further keepers since this stunning 328 has now covered a total of just 14,000 miles.

Presented in Rosso Corsa with Magnolia leather interior throughout this example also benefits from a leather trimmed Targa panel, ABS, optional leather dashboard and a recently fitted stainless steel exhaust system. Extremely well maintained from new this remarkable 328 is accompanied by its spare keys and a comprehensive file of invoices from 1989 and MOTs back till 1992, (which would have been its first MOT!). In March 2014 the car was treated to a Major cambelt service and additionally as part of the sale the car will be given another service at DK Engineering. It is rare to find a RHD 328 with low mileage and presented in such superb condition; it is rarer still to find an example with a well-documented and comprehensive history of no expense spared maintenance that has been lavished on this car from new.