Ferrari 280 GTO (1984-87)
Overview: The **Ferrari 288 GTO** (often mistakenly called the "280 GTO") was a groundbreaking model that set the foundation for Ferrari’s modern **limited-edition supercars**. Introduced in **1984**, it was the first Ferrari to carry the **GTO (Gran Turismo Omologato) name** since the legendary **250 GTO**, making it a highly significant car in Ferrari’s history.
**Key Significance to Ferrari**
- **First Modern Supercar** – The 288 GTO was Ferrari’s **first limited-production supercar**, proving there was a market for **low-volume, high-performance models**.
- **Turbocharged Innovation** – It was Ferrari’s **first turbocharged road car**, featuring a **2.85L twin-turbo V8**, producing **400 hp**, making it the most powerful Ferrari road car at the time.
- **Group B Racing Origins** – Originally designed for **Group B racing**, the 288 GTO was built to comply with FIA regulations, but the series was canceled before it could compete.
- **Foundation for Future Supercars** – The 288 GTO paved the way for Ferrari’s **F40, F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari**, establishing Ferrari’s tradition of **exclusive, high-performance models**.
- **Lightweight & Advanced Engineering** – It featured a **tubular steel chassis** and a **lightweight composite body**, making it one of Ferrari’s most technically advanced cars of its era.
The **288 GTO** was more than just a fast car—it was a statement of **Ferrari’s engineering prowess**, proving that **turbocharging and lightweight construction** could create a **new breed of supercar**.
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Production Total: The **Ferrari 288 GTO** had a total production run of **272 units** between **1984 and 1987**. It was originally intended for **Group B racing**, but after the series was canceled, Ferrari continued production as a **limited-edition road car**.
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Price New: The **Ferrari 288 GTO** had a list price of **£73,499** when it was new in the UK in **1984**. That was a hefty sum at the time, but considering its exclusivity and performance, it was a bargain compared to what they sell for today—often in the **millions**!
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Sales: The **Ferrari 288 GTO** was a **major sales success**, despite its limited production run of **272 units** between **1984 and 1987**. Originally intended for **Group B racing**, Ferrari had no trouble selling all **200 required homologation units** before production even began. After the cancellation of Group B, Ferrari continued building the car, and demand remained strong among collectors and enthusiasts.
**Sales Performance & Market Impact**
- The **288 GTO was Ferrari’s first modern supercar**, setting the foundation for later models like the **F40, F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari**.
- It was **the first Ferrari road car to feature a twin-turbocharged V8**, proving that turbocharging could enhance performance without sacrificing Ferrari’s signature driving experience.
- Despite never racing, the **288 GTO became one of Ferrari’s most sought-after models**, with values skyrocketing in the collector market.
- Today, **288 GTOs regularly sell for millions**, reinforcing its status as an investment-grade Ferrari.
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Rivals: In **1984**, the **Ferrari 288 GTO** had a UK list price of **£73,499**, but what about its rivals? Here’s a look at the prices of some of its main competitors at the time:
**Main Rivals & Their UK Prices (1984)**
- **Porsche 911 Turbo (930)** – Around **£39,000**
- **Lamborghini Countach LP500S** – Approximately **£55,000**
- **Ferrari 512 BBi** – Roughly **£50,000**
- **Aston Martin V8 Vantage** – Around **£60,000**
- **Lotus Esprit Turbo** – About **£22,000**
The **288 GTO was significantly more expensive** than most of its rivals, reflecting its **limited production, advanced technology, and racing pedigree**. Today, its value has skyrocketed, often selling for **millions** at auction.
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Recorded in UK 2025
It looks like there are **no officially licensed Ferrari 288 GTOs recorded on UK roads in 2025**. However, this data should be viewed with caution, as some cars may be registered under different classifications or kept off-road under **SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** status.
The **288 GTO remains an ultra-rare collector’s item**, with values reaching **millions of pounds**. If you're looking for one, specialist dealers like **DK Engineering** may have listings.
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **Ferrari 288 GTO** (often mistakenly called the "280 GTO") is a well-engineered supercar, but like any high-performance vehicle, it has a few common issues that owners should be aware of.
**Common Faults in the Ferrari 288 GTO**
- **Turbo Lag** – The **twin-turbocharged V8** can exhibit noticeable **turbo lag**, especially at lower RPMs.
- **Weak Synchros in the Gearbox** – Some owners report **wear issues with the gearbox synchros**, particularly in **second and third gears**.
- **Cooling System Problems** – The **radiators and cooling hoses** can develop leaks over time, requiring careful maintenance.
- **Electrical Gremlins** – Like many Ferraris of the era, the **288 GTO can suffer from electrical issues**, including **faulty relays and intermittent dashboard warnings**.
- **Fuel System Concerns** – Some cars experience **fuel pump failures**, leading to starting problems or inconsistent performance.
- **Body Panel Fitment** – Due to its **composite body construction**, some **panel gaps** can be inconsistent, though this is more of a cosmetic issue.
- **Brake Wear** – The **brakes can wear quickly**, especially under spirited driving, requiring frequent servicing.
Despite these issues, the **288 GTO is considered one of Ferrari’s most reliable supercars**, with **strong build quality** and **long-term durability** when properly maintained.
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