The Ferrari 208 GTB is a domestic Italian-market variant of the 308 GTB, produced from 1980 to 1986. It was created specifically to bypass Italy’s heavy 38% Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on cars with engines larger than 2.0 liters (2,000 cc).
Engine & Evolution
- Smallest Production V8: To stay under the 2,000 cc tax threshold, Ferrari sleeved down the 308’s 2.9L engine to 1,991 cc (2.0 L), making it one of the smallest production V8 engines ever built.
- Naturally Aspirated 208 GTB (1980–1982): Pushed out just 155 PS (114 kW; 153 hp) through four Weber carburetors. Because performance suffered significantly due to the lower output, sales were modest.
- 208 GTB Turbo (1982–1985): Ferrari added a KKK K27 turbocharger, boosting output to 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp). This was Ferrari’s first-ever turbocharged road car, paving the way for models like the 288 GTO and F40.
Key Technical Specifications
| Feature | N/A 208 GTB (1980) | 208 GTB Turbo (1982) |
| Engine Displacement | 2.0 L (1,991 cc) V8 | 2.0 L (1,991 cc) Turbocharged V8 |
| Power Output | 155 PS @ 6,800 rpm | 220 PS @ 7,000 rpm |
| Induction | 4 Weber 34 DCNF | KKK Turbo + Bosch K-Jetronic |
| 0–100 km/h | ~8.4 seconds | ~6.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h (134 mph) | 242 km/h (150 mph) |
| Visual Cues | Satin black air intakes | Extra engine lid NACA ducts & front spoiler |