The 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS stands as one of the quintessential sports cars of the 1980s, representing the perfect blend of speed, style, and driving pleasure. Powered by a 3.2-liter V8 engine and designed by Pininfarina, this stunning vehicle is a true icon of Italian automotive engineering. With its exhilarating performance, engaging driving experience, and timeless design, the 328 GTS continues to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors around the world. In this article, we will explore the key technical specifications, design features, and legacy of the Ferrari 328 GTS, celebrating what makes this model a beloved classic.
1. Introduction to the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS
The Ferrari 328 GTS was introduced in 1985 and quickly became one of the most desirable sports cars of its era. As the successor to the Ferrari 308 GTS, the 328 GTS refined the design and performance of its predecessor while retaining its core DNA of thrilling driving dynamics. The “GTS” designation stands for Gran Turismo Spider, reflecting the car’s open-top design, which offers a true “wind-in-your-hair” experience.
The 1986 model year was part of the second production year of the 328 GTS, and it remains one of the most revered cars in Ferrari’s history. With its exceptional performance capabilities, combined with a design that exudes elegance and sportiness, the 328 GTS is a vehicle that has stood the test of time, making it a sought-after classic among automotive aficionados.
2. Engine and Performance: A V8 Powerhouse
At the heart of the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS lies a 3.2-liter V8 engine, capable of producing 270 PS (267 BHP) or 199 kW. This engine, which features a naturally aspirated design, delivers a smooth yet thrilling power delivery. With a redline of around 7,500 rpm, the V8 offers a broad powerband, providing a satisfying mix of high-revving excitement and torque at lower speeds.
The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, which is a key feature of the 328 GTS. The manual transmission gives the driver full control over the car’s power, offering a direct connection to the driving experience. The shifts are precise, allowing the driver to engage in spirited driving, whether on winding roads or at high speeds. This level of engagement is one of the reasons why the 328 GTS remains a favorite among driving purists.
The performance figures of the Ferrari 328 GTS are impressive for its era. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in just around 5.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of approximately 163 mph (262 km/h). This performance is achieved not just through raw power but also through the car’s relatively light weight, which, combined with its mid-mounted engine, provides excellent balance and handling characteristics.
3. Handling and Agility: Ferrari’s Signature Precision
The Ferrari 328 GTS is renowned for its exceptional handling, and much of this is attributed to its well-engineered chassis and suspension system. The car is built on a tubular steel frame, which ensures rigidity and stability while keeping the weight down. The front suspension features double wishbones, while the rear uses an independent setup, both designed to provide superior cornering stability and ride quality.
The mid-engine configuration of the 328 GTS plays a crucial role in its handling characteristics. By positioning the engine centrally, Ferrari achieved a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, which enhances the car’s balance and makes it more responsive to steering inputs. This layout, combined with the finely tuned suspension, allows the 328 GTS to tackle corners with precision, while still delivering a smooth and enjoyable ride on straight roads.
In addition to its suspension, the 328 GTS benefits from a set of performance tires and alloy wheels that improve grip and handling. Whether navigating twisty mountain roads or cruising at high speeds, the Ferrari 328 GTS offers an engaging and dynamic driving experience that remains one of its most lauded features.
4. Design: Timeless Pininfarina Elegance
One of the standout aspects of the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS is its design, which was crafted by the renowned design house Pininfarina. The car’s exterior is a perfect blend of elegance and athleticism, with clean lines and a sculpted body that enhances its aerodynamics and visual appeal.
The 328 GTS features a wide, aggressive front fascia with quad headlights and a low, sleek profile. The iconic Ferrari grille is flanked by large air intakes, which not only contribute to the car’s aesthetic but also provide necessary airflow to the engine and brakes. The rear of the car features a clean, simple design, with round taillights and a signature Ferrari rear bumper that enhances its sporty appearance.
One of the most defining features of the GTS variant is the removable targa roof, which gives the driver the option to experience open-top motoring. This roof can be removed or reattached with ease, allowing for a more intimate connection with the environment. Whether cruising through the countryside or enjoying a fast drive on a sunny day, the open roof enhances the driving experience by bringing the driver closer to the sound of the engine and the road.
The Pininfarina design remains timeless, with a shape that still looks fresh and modern, even decades after its introduction. Its proportions, the way the curves flow from front to back, and the overall stance of the car make the Ferrari 328 GTS a true masterpiece of automotive design.
5. Interior: A Blend of Functionality and Comfort
Inside the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS, the driver is greeted by a cockpit designed with a focus on functionality, comfort, and style. The cabin features high-quality leather upholstery, with supportive sports seats that provide comfort during long drives and support during spirited cornering. The dashboard is simple yet elegant, with clear, easy-to-read gauges that provide essential information to the driver.
The interior layout is centered around the driver, with all controls easily within reach, making it ideal for those who love to take full control of their car. The steering wheel is compact and sporty, giving the driver excellent feedback and precision. The gear shifter, with its short throws and smooth action, further enhances the tactile connection to the car’s performance.
Despite being a performance-oriented vehicle, the 328 GTS offers a reasonable level of comfort. The seats are upholstered in fine leather, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise, allowing for a pleasant driving experience even at high speeds. The air conditioning and sound system are simple but functional, enhancing the overall comfort during longer drives or cruising.
6. Legacy and Impact: A Ferrari Classic
The 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS has solidified its place as one of Ferrari’s most iconic and reliable classic models. While many Ferraris of this era were exotic and temperamental, the 328 GTS gained a reputation for being one of the more practical and usable Ferraris. Its robust V8 engine, coupled with a relatively straightforward design, made it easier to maintain and enjoy than some of its more complicated siblings.
Beyond its practicality, the 328 GTS also boasts a strong motorsport pedigree, having served as a symbol of Ferrari’s dedication to performance and engineering. It remains a highly regarded model among collectors, and its timeless design ensures that it still attracts attention and admiration today.
The 328 GTS is celebrated not only for its performance and design but also for its place in Ferrari history. It embodies the essence of what makes Ferrari special: a perfect blend of speed, beauty, and driving enjoyment.
7. Conclusion: A True Classic
The 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS remains one of the most celebrated and iconic Ferrari models, revered by collectors and driving enthusiasts alike. Its 3.2-liter V8 engine delivers thrilling performance, while its precise handling, timeless Pininfarina design, and engaging driving experience make it one of the most enjoyable cars of its era. The removable targa roof adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing drivers to enjoy the thrill of open-top motoring without compromising the car’s performance.
As one of Ferrari’s most reliable and usable classics, the 328 GTS continues to hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. Whether as a collector’s item, a weekend driver, or a piece of automotive history, the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS remains a true embodiment of Italian performance and style, one that continues to capture the imagination of automotive lovers around the world.