Classic TV Cars

Magnum P.I. Ferarri 308 GTS

Magnum P.I. was an action television show that ran between 1980-88 on the CBS network. It featured Tom Selleck playing the role of Thomas Magnum, a private investigator working security for the Hawaiian estate of a wealthy Robin Masters. Magnum was an ex-Vietnam vet (Navy Seal and Naval Intel) and as part of his perks, got to drive the red 308 Ferrari belonging to Mr. Masters' estate. The convertible supercar was the perfect pick for the lush backdrop of Hawaii, making the car extremely popular with fans and collectors.

While most fans of the show cannot afford a Ferrari like Magnum P.I., they can always watch the TV show!

Ferarri 308 GTS Details

• Years: 1979, 1981, 1984
• Make & Model: Ferrari 308 GTS (1979), 308 GTSi (1981), 308 GTS QV (1984)
• Engine: 3.0 liter DOHC (2 and 4 valve) mid-engined V-8 rated at 214-255 hp
• Carburetor: Weber Carb (1979) and BOSCH K-Jetronic fuel injection (1981, 1984)
• Transmission: 5 Speed Synchomesh Transmission
• Wheels: Ferrari Cast Alloys with Michelin performance tires
• Color: Red (Rosso)
• Other Notables: Two seater, limited slip differential, racing clutch, targa top, air conditioning, leather interior, front airdam and rear airfoil.

The red targa-topped 308GTS was made famous on the Magnum P.I. television show. Upto five 308 GTs were used for filming, with the best models used for close-ups and static shots. It is also believed that the studios may have constructed special "kit" cars for the stunts. This was a fairly common practice as replacement auto parts and body parts for a Ferrari are obviously not cheap but a kit car can take a few dings and dents, or be put in riskier situations, with less worry. The show featured Ferraris from the 1979, 1981 and 1984 model years. At the end of every season the Ferraris were apparently sold at auction, although seeing as how the 308 was fairly rare even when in production, it seems like this would make finding replacements every season very expensive and time-consuming. Magnum P.I. television show had such a profound impact on the Ferrari 308 and 328 GTS, that these cars are often referred to as the "Magnum P.I. Ferrari". Even today, close to 30 years after Magnum P.I.'s television reign, it is still an iconic TV show. .

Video compliation of the Magnum P.I. red Ferrari 308 GTS

Pictures of the Magnum P.I. Ferrari 308

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