Classic Cars with History: Ferrari Dino 208 GT4

In the automotive world there are plenty of things that many traditionalists consider a kind of sacrilege. One of the best examples is downsizing, which manufacturers have been promoting so enthusiastically in recent years and which can really set nerves on edge at the disappearance of V12, V10 or V8 engines (I also count myself as somewhat of a “traditionalist”). Yet Ferrari did not hesitate for a second to reduce to 2 litres a mechanical gem of a V8 engine that originally displaced 3 litres, the so-called “castrated Ferraris”.

This curious reduction in displacement came at a time when Italian legislation imposed higher taxes in Italy on cars with engines above 2 litres. Ferrari took the engine from the 308 GT4 and turned it into a two-litre unit, the 208 GT4. It was one of Maranello’s attempts to ensure that Ferrari was not merely a niche brand, but that practically anyone could fulfil their Ferrari dream, an aim that was achieved only partially through the Dino sub-brand.

To make up for the loss of power, Ferrari changed the camshafts for units with more punch. Presented at the 1975 Geneva Motor Show, it was the Ferrari with the smallest displacement in its history (and one of the smallest-displacement V8s of any manufacturer), yet it produced 170 horsepower at 7,700 rpm and reached a top speed of 220 km/h, accompanied by the sound of four Weber carburettors, which must have been a sight and sound to behold.

The only problem is that this model was enjoyed only in Italy, thanks to the tax advantages that owning a small model gave the brand. Only 840 examples were built, which is why it remains one of the least known models of the cavallino.

In 1980 the 308 GTB replaced the 208 GT4. Although the model followed the same trend as its predecessor, with a two-litre engine, the power banner was raised somewhat, reaching 240 horsepower in the GTS Turbo.

Via | Ferrari, Wikipedia