Ferrari 288 GTO

The Ferrari GTO, also known as the Ferrari 288 GTO, debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1984, where it became a real sensation.

This car perfectly combined sporty looks, the best dynamic performance among Ferrari road cars, and the comfort of a two-seater interior. The basis of this car was the 308 GTB model.

The Italian company Pininfarina worked on the exterior design of GTO, which, in fact, explains some of the similarities with the legendary F40 model, which will be released a little later (in 1987).

The interior of this car is traditionally decorated for Ferrari of those years. Inside there are two deep leather seats. As soon as a person sits in the car, his hand automatically rests on the gear lever, which moves along three parallel grooves in the floor tunnel. Additional sensors placed in the middle of the front panel are covered with velor and catch your eye.

The speedometer, marked up to 320 kph, and the boost pressure sensor clearly indicate that a rather serious power unit was located behind the driver. Indeed, the V8 engine with a volume of 147 ci (2,855 cc) produces 400 hp.

Engine

The engine is equipped with two compact turbochargers and a complex electronic control system that has been tested on Ferrari racing cars. Note that according to FIA rules, when a turbocharger is used, the engine volume is multiplied by a factor of 1.4.

Therefore, according to these rules, the volume of the Ferrari 288 GTO engine is taken as 4.0 liters. Such an engine allowes this car to accelerate to 60 mph (97 kph) in just four seconds, and its top speed was 190 mph (306 kph).

The engine also has pretty good low-speed traction, allowing it to run quietly at 1500rpm in third gear and 2000rpm in fifth gear.

288 GTO Evoluzione

Ferrari also produced five racing examples (and another built from a 288 GTO chassis) under the name Evoluzione, which featured a more aggressive look with improved aerodynamic performance.

Photo: "GTO Evoluzione" by Rob Oo

Engine power has also been increased; it was originally 650 hp, but was reduced to 450 hp in 1986 after the "group B" rally cars were shut down.

In 1985, the production of the Ferrari 288 GTO model was completed. For the entire period of production, 277 cars were assembled.

In 2004, the American magazine Sports Car International published a list of the best sports cars of the 1980s, where the Ferrari 288 GTO sports car ranked second after the Porsche 959.

In Today's Market

In today's fast-paced world, where technology and innovation reign supreme, it's easy to assume that finding a vintage car like the Ferrari 288 GTO would be nearly impossible. However, for those with unwavering determination and a healthy bank account, the dream of owning this legendary car is not entirely out of reach.

Ferrari 288 GTO has become somewhat of a unicorn in the market. With only 272 units ever produced, and the passage of time taking its toll on these treasured automobiles, finding one for sale is a true rarity. However, where there is demand, supply tends to follow, albeit in limited quantities.

Prominent auction houses such as RM Sotheby's and Bonhams occasionally feature the Ferrari 288 GTO on their auction blocks, attracting enthusiastic bidders from around the globe.

These events offer a glimmer of hope for those who diligently keep a close eye on the market, with the chance to bid on a well-maintained, albeit formidable, investment.

But be prepared – the price tags attached to these prestigious machines are not for the faint of heart. Recent auctions have seen Ferrari 288 GTOs fetching astronomical figures, dwarfing the original retail price by margins unimaginable.

The allure of driving one of the most exclusive vehicles ever made comes at a hefty cost, effectively inviting only those with substantial financial means.

Nevertheless, the scarcity and exorbitant price tag attached to the Ferrari 288 GTO do nothing to diminish its appeal. Owning one is a true symbol of prestige, a testament to the owner's passion for automotive excellence.

So, while finding a Ferrari 288 GTO in today's market may present a challenge, those who possess the drive and financial capability to embark on this quest may find themselves with the opportunity of a lifetime.

With every mile driven, they become part of a select group, forever intertwined with the mystique and legend of the Ferrari 288 GTO.