By no means new to the production of smaller displacement, high output, multi-fractioned engines; on the heels of the 1975 208 GT4 Ferrari introduced the smallest displacement version of the 308 GTB – the 208 GTB and GTS – in 1980. The bodywork was identical to that of its berlinetta and targa sisters, while the new version of the sophisticated 90° V8 came in at just under 2,000 cc.
The 208 GTB models had a tubular chassis with factory type reference F 106 CB 100. Disc brakes, with independent suspension via wishbones, coil springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers, were provided all round, with front and rear anti roll bars.
All models were numbered in the Ferrari odd number road car chassis sequence, with only left hand drive available. Production ran from 1980 through to 1982, during which time 160 examples were produced in the chassis number range 31219 to 41329.
As with the exterior the interior was virtually identical to the larger capacity 308 GTB model, featuring a pair of leather trimmed bucket seats, whilst the main instruments were contained in a hooded nacelle in front of the driver, who was provided with a three spoke leather rimmed steering wheel. The clock and oil temperature gauge were mounted in a separate panel on the lower left edge of the dashboard. The gear lever in an open gate was mounted in the driver’s side of the centre console, which also contained ancillary switchgear, the handbrake and an ashtray.
The transversely mid-mounted aluminium V8 engine was essentially of the same design as that used in the 308 GTB model. It was of a 90 degree configuration, with belt driven twin overhead camshafts per bank, having a total capacity of 1991cc, with a bore and stroke of 66.8mm x 71mm, bearing factory type reference F 106 CB 000.
The engine was coupled in unit with the all synchromesh five speed transmission assembly, which was below, and to the rear of the engine’s sump. It was fitted with a bank of four twin choke Weber 34 DCNF carburettors, mounted in the centre of the vee, and had a claimed power output of 155bhp at 6800rpm.