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Coachwork by Scaglietti
Estimate
Chassis
From a Private Collection
Introduced in 1976, the Ferrari 308 GTB revolutionized the marque’s midengine model line with a new V-8 engine and updated coachwork. The first 712 examples were clothed in fiberglass before Ferrari switched to steel bodies, making the earlier examples particularly desirable. Chassis 19521 is one of 100 examples specified for the US, completing assembly during June 1976. Initially sold to a Seattle-based enthusiast, the 308 reportedly relocated to California during the early 1990s. By 2012 the car was owned by Joseph Thomas Murphy of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and he returned it to California in 2014 for well-documented attention to the engine, ignition, and fuel systems.
Acquired by the consignor shortly thereafter, the Ferrari was entrusted to Francorchamps of America Inc. in Costa Mesa, California, for further sorting, including a rebuild of the radiator, air-conditioning, carburetors, brakes, and the steering rack. Interior Concepts and Designs reupholstered the seats with supple beige leather with black inserts, while numerous other finishing measures were undertaken, including the reconditioning of the dashboard and speedometer. Rex Nguyen Restorations performed careful and comprehensive cosmetic detailing in 2016 to increase the Ferrari’s overall appeal.
This early 308 Vetroresina is accompanied by owner’s manuals, a jack, and a tool kit, and is documented with service invoices. It offers the superb cachet of one of the marque’s rare modern production models.