by Updated Ferrari 308 GTB: Dutch Restomod with 400 hp
Restomods have long become a separate genre, with every workshop in the world hunting for the same iconic models. When it seemed that all possible variations had been exhausted, the Dutch company Maturo Competition Cars presented a modern reinterpretation of the Ferrari 308 GTB. And not just one, but two versions at once. The first is built for public roads, the second is a tribute to the 308 GTB Group 4 rally car.
308 Stradale: Road Version with Character
The 308 Stradale model is the more interesting of the two. Maturo takes an original 308, produced from 1975 to 1985, completely strips the body down to bare metal, welds in a roll cage, and adds over 150 structural weld points to strengthen the chassis before starting the main work.
Then the bodywork begins. The Dutch firm handcrafts widened front and rear fenders for the Ferrari, inspired by the large arches of the original Group 4 rally car. These arches look absolutely stunning and fit the rest of the car’s body perfectly. They are complemented by a set of 15-inch wheels.
For the most part, Maturo has managed to avoid the trap some restomod specialists fall into by interfering too much with the car’s original design. Maturo did not do this, preserving the iconic, sleek shape of the 308 while updating it with new LED headlights and taillights.
Technical Changes: Power and Handling
Quite a few changes have also taken place under the hood. While the original 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine of the 308 produced up to 255 hp in European specification, Maturo has installed new camshafts, an updated ignition system, a special intake manifold, and a Capristo exhaust system, allowing the engine to produce 400 hp. To handle the extra power, the five-speed manual gearbox has also been strengthened and continues to drive the rear wheels. A limited-slip differential has been added.
Modern brakes and adjustable TracTive suspension complete the updates. Photos of the car’s interior have not yet been released, but it is known that prices for the modified 308 GTB start at 425,000 euros (approximately $494,000 USD at the current exchange rate), not including the cost of the donor car.
308 Rally: For True Rallying
Those who want to use a Ferrari 308 for rallying can order the 308 Rally version from Maturo. As with the Stradale, this model is completely disassembled, and the chassis is strengthened. The engine is also upgraded to produce over 300 hp, the gearbox is reinforced, and new brakes and suspension are installed.
Thus, Maturo offers two very different but equally captivating takes on the classic Ferrari 308 GTB. The first is a refined road car with significantly increased power and modern handling that retains the recognizable style of the original. The second is a more severe, rally-oriented tool that pays homage to the model’s racing heritage. Both options demonstrate how a classic can be respectfully and skillfully updated without losing its soul, although the price, of course, makes them accessible only to very wealthy enthusiasts. It is worth noting that the restomod market continues to grow, and projects like this not only preserve history but also create new, unique cars that combine the best of the past and the present.
