Ferrari 308 GTS 1982 Magnum PI Red in 1:18 scale by Norev
This is the Ferrari 308 GTS 1982 Red in 1:18 scale by Norev from the Magnum PI Television Show.
This exquisite model is hand painted and polished to a beautiful finish.
Other features include a Removeable Roof Panel
The Ferrari 308, featured prominently in the TV show Magnum, P.I. (1980–1988), is an iconic car that became synonymous with the series and its suave private investigator, Thomas Magnum, played by Tom Selleck. Here’s a detailed look at the Ferrari 308 as it appeared in the show:
Overview of the Ferrari 308The Ferrari 308 is a mid-engine, two-seater sports car produced by Ferrari from 1975 to 1985. It was designed by Pininfarina, with sleek, elegant lines that made it a standout in the 1970s and 1980s. In Magnum, P.I., the car was as much a character as the human cast, embodying the laid-back yet luxurious Hawaiian lifestyle of the show.
Specific Models Used in Magnum, P.I.The show primarily featured two variants of the Ferrari 308:
Overview of the Ferrari 308The Ferrari 308 is a mid-engine, two-seater sports car produced by Ferrari from 1975 to 1985. It was designed by Pininfarina, with sleek, elegant lines that made it a standout in the 1970s and 1980s. In Magnum, P.I., the car was as much a character as the human cast, embodying the laid-back yet luxurious Hawaiian lifestyle of the show.
Specific Models Used in Magnum, P.I.The show primarily featured two variants of the Ferrari 308:
- Ferrari 308 GTS (1977–1980): Used in the early seasons (1–3). The GTS is the targa-top version, featuring a removable roof panel that suited the open-air, sunny Hawaiian setting. It had a 3.0-liter V8 engine producing around 255 horsepower (in early models, later reduced due to emissions regulations). The car was painted in Rosso Corsa (Ferrari red) with a tan interior, a classic combination.
- Ferrari 308 GTSi (1980–1982): Starting in Season 3, the show transitioned to the GTSi, which introduced Bosch fuel injection to meet stricter emissions standards, slightly reducing power to about 205 horsepower. The GTSi was visually similar but had minor updates like revised wheels.
- Ferrari 308 GTS Quattrovalvole (1982–1985): In later seasons (around Season 5), the show used the Quattrovalvole (or "QV") model, which featured a four-valve-per-cylinder engine, boosting power back up to around 240 horsepower. This version had subtle styling changes, like a revised front grille and side mirrors.
- Cultural Icon: The Ferrari 308 GTS was provided to Thomas Magnum by the estate of Robin Masters, the mysterious millionaire who owned the Hawaiian property where Magnum lived. It symbolized Magnum’s carefree, adventurous lifestyle and contrasted with his down-to-earth personality.
- Hawaiian Setting: The open-top GTS was perfect for the show’s Hawaiian backdrop, with scenes of Magnum cruising along Oahu’s coastal roads, often with the top off, showcasing the island’s beauty.
- Memorable Features: The car’s license plate, ROBIN 1, became iconic, tying it to the fictional Robin Masters. Fans also associate the car with Magnum’s signature Hawaiian shirts and mustache, creating a quintessential 1980s vibe.
- Multiple Cars: The show used several Ferrari 308s over its run due to wear, damage, and the need for stunt vehicles. Some were modified for filming, such as adding cameras or reinforcing the frame for action scenes.
- Damage and Repairs: The cars often suffered damage during filming—Magnum wasn’t exactly gentle with the Ferrari, leading to dents, scratches, and even a crash or two. Replacement cars were sourced to maintain continuity.
- Authenticity: Ferrari provided some vehicles directly to the show, ensuring authenticity, though the production team occasionally used replica parts or modified interiors for practical purposes.
- Engine: 3.0-liter V8, transverse-mounted, with carburetors (early GTS), fuel injection (GTSi), or four-valve heads (QV).
- Horsepower: ~255 hp (early GTS), ~205 hp (GTSi), ~240 hp (QV).
- Top Speed: Around 150 mph (GTS), slightly less for GTSi, and improved for QV.
- 0–60 mph: Approximately 6.5–7 seconds, depending on the model.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual with a gated shifter, a hallmark of Ferrari’s tactile driving experience.
- Weight: Around 3,000 pounds, making it agile for its era.
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