Ferrari Mailing List: Re: Info for 308/328

[Grahame Reinthal (grahame]

Loads of good advice on this topic so far, especially getting a PPI, not
just from just any mechanic (even a good one) but rather from someone who
really knows and specialises in these cars - worth every penny!
 
With buying any 2nd hand Ferrari, it is not mileage that really counts, it's
more about service history. With 308/328s, it's no different. You are better
to spend a bit more to buy one that has been well looked after than chase
after a cheapie.

One thing (from bitter and expensive experience) if you buy a 2-valve 308,
make sure that someone along the way has replaced the exhaust valves -
otherwise, you are playing Russian roulette.  Otherwise, these cars really
are mechanically tough as nails.

As for the height question, tallish guys are ok in most of the 308s/328s.
The 308GT4 has the best headroom. Maybe some guys will be more comfortable
than others, depending on the car and depending if they are relatively
longer in their body or their legs. I'm 6'1" with the height in the legs - I
have no problem, but I probably look a bit like a praying mantice with my
legs splayed on either side of the steering wheel.  However, it works out ok
and I recently felt perfectly comfortable driving more than 2,000km from
Sydney to Brisbane and around about and back again in my 308gt4.

If you want to do track days, think about the extra headroom needed for the
helmet. A few years ago, I was about to buy a 512 Boxer but the headroom
with helmet was not there, even if I had lowered the seat (no mean feat in
itself).

Anyway, good hunting and welcome to the smitten!! ;)

Grahame