Hawke's Bay Today

Ferrari befits owners’ surname

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What are you driving?

It is a 1978 Ferrari 308 GTB lightweigh­t edition. The car is red and manual. I bought it nine years ago from a car importer and it came from the UK.

Why did you buy this car?

I always liked the shape of the 308 and still think it is the most balanced looking car Ferrari made. Already, as a kid, I had little models of the 308 and I watched Magnum PI only because it had a 308 in it. The show has a 308 GTS which is open top, but I prefer the look of the closed top car which is the GTB.

Is this your everyday drive?

It is not my everyday drive but, depending on weather, I drive it maybe every second week.

What do you like about it?

As mentioned, I really like the way the car looks. There is no bad angle. Front, side and rear view are all good and it drives even better than it looks. I enjoy that there are no electronic helpers. You have to drive the car yourself. There is no power steering, so you are directly connected to the road. (But parking is a nightmare). It has a heavy clutch and gearbox, so it is best not to get into traffic. There is no electronic stabilisin­g system. If you go to fast into a corner, you first feel the oversteer before you rear breaks out. Be a bit too aggressive in wet conditions and the wheels spin and you slide. No ABS either. So overall driving is engaging and fun.

Do you think you’ll ever sell it?

I have no intention to sell the car. I am still excited about driving a 308 GTB and am enjoying the car way too much.

Who else has driven your Ferrari?

My friends have driven the car — with me in the passenger seat.

What other vehicles are in your garage?

 ?? Photo / Ted Baghurst ??
Photo / Ted Baghurst

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