Ferrari 328 (1985–1989): A Driver’s History, Living Tips, and the Floor Mats That Actually Matter
I’ve spent enough time in and around the Ferrari 328—GTB and GTS—to know why it still silences a cars-and-coffee crowd. The Ferrari 328 is the rare classic that feels wonderfully analog yet never grumpy. You get the thin-rim wheel, the polished gate, the mid-engine view in the mirrors—and a car that doesn’t punish you for using it. On a cool Sunday, I took a GTS across some pockmarked backroads; the thing breathed with the surface rather than crashing over it. Later that day, a couple asked if it was new. Timeless shapes will do that.
Unveiling a Legend: The Ferrari 328
Introduced as the evolution of the 308, the Ferrari 328 kept the Pininfarina proportions—low, lithe, impossibly clean—but matured the details. Subtle flares, smoother front bumper, and those delicious side strakes feeding a mid-mounted V8. Pop-up headlights? Of course. It’s a poster car that somehow drives better than the poster promised.
The Ferrari 328 Powertrain and Chassis: How It Actually Feels
Under the rear lid sits a 3.2-liter quad-cam V8, good for 270 hp and 231 lb-ft in European trim (U.S. cars were a touch lower). It’s bolted to a five-speed manual with that iconic open gate that makes every upshift a small ceremony. Factory figures peg 0–60 mph in the mid-fives to low-sixes and a top speed in the mid-160s. Numbers aside, what I noticed right away was the throttle fidelity—small pedal, big response—and the way the car settles into a groove at 4,000 rpm. The steering is unassisted and heavy at parking speeds, then alive once you’re rolling. Double wishbones and coil springs (all around) keep it tidy, and on rough roads the 328 never feels brittle. Just… mechanical in the best way.
Period Context: Ferrari 328 vs. Its Rivals
| Car (circa late ’80s) | Power | 0–60 mph | Top Speed | Character Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS | 270 hp (EU) | 5.5–6.0 s | 163–166 mph | Linear, friendly, wonderfully balanced |
| Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 | 217–231 hp | 5.9–6.3 s | 152–158 mph | Rear-engine quirks, bulletproof feel |
| Lotus Esprit Turbo HC | 215–228 hp | 5.4–5.8 s | 150–152 mph | Edgier, more exotic, less forgiving |
| Chevrolet Corvette C4 (L98) | 240–245 hp | 5.8–6.1 s | 150–155 mph | Big torque, great value, different vibe |
Figures reflect period manufacturer claims and contemporary tests; individual cars and conditions vary.
Real-World Ferrari 328 Ownership: Joys, Quirks, Costs
The good bits are obvious—how it looks back at you in the garage, how it turns a routine errand into an event, how the engine’s metallic rasp hardens over 5,000 rpm. But let’s talk real life:
- Driving position is slightly offset; you get used to it. The pedals favor heel-and-toe, which is half the fun.
- Second-gear synchro can be reluctant when cold. Give it a minute; the gearbox warms like espresso—best not rushed.
- A/C is fine on the move, merely okay in summer traffic. The GTS roof makes it a lovely shoulder-season car.
- Luggage? The rear trunk will swallow a pair of soft weekenders if you pack like you know what you’re doing.
- Electrical gremlins usually trace to fusebox/wiring age. Preventive refreshes save headaches.
Ferrari 328 Floor Mats: The Simple Upgrade You’ll Appreciate Every Drive
Honestly, I wasn’t sure floor mats would make a difference—until I vacuumed gravel out of a pristine 328 carpet after a coastal run. The cabin is compact, so any scuff or stain sticks out like a coffee ring on a white shirt. Custom-fit mats keep the original carpet safe and give your feet a nicer landing pad during those heel-and-toe moments.
That’s where the AutoWin sets come in. They’re cut specifically for the 328’s floorpan, so they don’t bunch or creep under the clutch. Materials feel suitably premium—dense pile, proper edge binding—and they’re easy to pull and clean after a dusty drive. If you want a pop of Italian flair, there’s a red set that looks like it rolled out of Maranello’s trim room.
Performance Upgrades (If You’re Itching To Tinker)
- Exhaust systems: A freer-flowing system sharpens throttle response and lets the V8 sing without going antisocial. Stainless construction helps longevity.
- Suspension enhancements: Quality dampers or adjustable coilovers can freshen an older car, but don’t nuke the ride. The 328’s magic is its compliance.
- Brake upgrades: Performance pads, quality fluid, and fresh lines are often all you need for spirited road use. Big-rotor kits exist if you track it.
Elevate Style and Comfort: Custom Ferrari 328 Floor Mats
If you’re shopping mats specifically sized for the Ferrari 328, custom-fit matters more than anything. Universal mats slide; these lock in place. AutoWin’s selection hits the sweet spot of protection and presentation—exact cut, edged properly, and available in finishes that suit both GTB and GTS interiors. A few owners mentioned to me they keep a “show set” and a “driver set.” Sensible, honestly.
AutoWin Eshop: Your Trusted Source for Ferrari 328 Floor Mats
Buying mats shouldn’t feel like spec’ing a spaceship. AutoWin’s catalog for the Ferrari 328 is straightforward: pick your style, material, and stitching, and they send a set that actually fits. The interface is simple, and shipping is predictable—good news if your car is mid-detail and you’re trying to avoid any more “just stand on the sill” conversations.
Ferrari 328 Highlights (Quick Hits)
- 3.2-liter V8, 270 hp (EU), 231 lb-ft; 5-speed gated manual
- 0–60 mph: 5.5–6.0 s; top speed: 163–166 mph (period tests)
- Double-wishbone suspension, rear-wheel drive, mid-engine balance
- ABS added in late production (1988.5 models)
- Best interior upgrade for regular use? Proper, custom-fit floor mats
Verdict: Why the Ferrari 328 Still Charms
The Ferrari 328 is the classic that rewards driving, not just polishing. It’s fast enough, beautifully made, and forgiving in a way some exotics aren’t. Protect the parts you touch and see—start with quality floor mats—and it’ll feel fresher every time you drop into that low bucket and click the lever into first. If you’re building a small list of meaningful upgrades or care items, AutoWin’s 328-specific mats are an easy, worthwhile win.
Ferrari 328 FAQ
Is the Ferrari 328 reliable?
For a classic Italian exotic, yes—if maintained correctly. Keep up with belt services (time-based), fluids, and electrical health (fusebox/wiring checks). Well-kept cars are genuinely friendly.
What’s the difference between 328 GTB and GTS?
GTB is the fixed-roof coupe; GTS has a removable targa panel. The GTB is a bit quieter and stiffer; the GTS gives you open-air drama. Late “1988.5” cars introduced ABS and different wheels.
How much does routine servicing cost?
Varies by region and shop, but budget realistically for periodic belt service and regular fluids/consumables. Preventive attention to the cooling and electrical systems pays off.
Are custom floor mats worth it for a 328?
Yes. The cabin is compact, and original carpets are expensive to replace. Properly cut mats stay put, look right, and protect against grit and heel wear. AutoWin’s 328 sets are made to fit.
What should I check when buying a 328?
Service history (belts, fluids), cold-shift behavior (second-gear synchro), cooling fans/radiator health, corrosion in lower sills/arches, roof seals on GTS, and the fusebox/wiring. A pre-purchase inspection is money well spent.
