Carbs versus Fuel Injection for first Ferrari?

I don't think the issue here is carb. vs FI but the cost associated with either one. Carbs are straight forward and parts are available. The FI parts are more of a problem and cost.

 

I don't know how strict the smog control over there but, if it is like here in CA, I would consider a QV as they tend to be more reliable and smogable assuming you get one that is all sorted out even with a high mileage car it's still ok.

 

I agree. Also they were the first 308s with rust-proofing (1984-1985 cars).

If you have the budget, I would consider a 328. The cooling systems (among other things) are upgraded, which would be a factor in Texas.

 

Properly set up carbs rarely need touching and sound better

Local service ideas try the local section here but even in the UK we've heard of Norwood - go visit & talk to them

 

Norwood is the best independent shop in Big D.

I voted "carbs" as the performance is better (if they are correctly set)..

There is no computer in either one.

As noted the components for the injected systems (and the dinoplex sloid dtate ignition parts too) are getting rare and pricey.

Come drive one of my early carbed cars ( cams were changed in 1978) and then try an injected car (2 valve or QV) and decide for yourself..

The later cars DO have better construction tolerances, I can show you hammer marks on mine, made by Italian communists....

 

I'm thinking of thinning my herd, what color do you want???

 

The fuel injection is mechanical and pretty simple but it'll take you about a year to really learn all the moving parts of the injection system. it's a symphony of swithches, vlaves hoses and lines that all need to work together.

Parts are prety cheap...most of em anyway. If you need spark boxes or a frequency valve you'll shell out a grand for the boxes and a few hundred for the FV.

That being said, I went for an 85 for the rust proofing and 16 inch rims but I prefer the sound of carbs and would rather work on carbs than FI.

 

I've never been a fan of carbs generally. The carbs on my motorcycle need rebuilding put I put it off. I wanted to drive my Ferrari every day in every circumstance at different elevations so I have a later FI model. But that was just my reasoning. To me FI makes sense and carbs are like black magic.

If you are going to work on the car yourself it's OK to go with what you are comfortable with. If you are going to have everything done at a shop then start visiting the shops and get their input on costs to make things right initially, then to keep it right.

 

Cut 'em out!





[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fh1dnspEHw[/ame]

 

I've had a 328 GTS, and two early carb GTBs, and it's not even close in my book. The carb cars are way more fun to drive in that the throttle response is much better than the mushy Bosch FI, and the sound...good heavens! The carb cars are also much more raw, which I like. But...you may like the more refined experience. Try to drive both if you can ;-) I should also point out that GTBs drive better than GTSs.

 

one word: wurrrghhh...

 

Is wurrrghhh a word? I guess it is in our world! ;-)

 

An inject 308 or 328 would be a good choice.

Nothing wrong with carbs (sound great as noted) when properly set up, but there is a reason cars don't have carbs anymore. The FI set-up will be less hassle as a first Ferrari. Unless you have owned carb cars before and enjoy them, injected is a better starting point.

 

I don't necessarily agree. If we were talking about modern EFI then I would not hesitate to buy a 308 or 328 . We are talking about old technology which in my opinion presents itself with cost exposure for maintenance . All of my present vehicles are EFI and using the OBD affords us to continue our own repairs. The carb cars (I'm bias) are pretty much straight forward. I did a Birdman tune up on my 77 about 5-6 years ago and I have not touched the carbs since then. I believe the best improvement was electronic ignition especially with an aftermarket product. I remember complaining about a leaking injector on our 89 Volvo. It went bad at 200K miles but the other 3 are still OEM at 320K. Hey this is a personal choice so get what you enjoy.

 

Lisa,

My first (and only so far) Ferrari has carburetors. The rebuild parts are readily available and as things go, relatively inexpensive. Once you have them "right", they seem to stay right.

There are lots of important considerations in finding the right Ferrari for you. I wouldn't let carburetors scare you away from a good car.

Will you do some of your own maintenance work?

Good luck with your search, Jeff

 

I own an '85 QV, which is, as you know, injected. In 27 years of ownership the FI have never required any service. As a matter of fact the only things requiring changes have been fluids, filters, brake pads, timing belts and one set of ignition wires. But then again, I subscribe to the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" school.

 

My first Ferrari, a '64 330 2+2, had three 2v Weber carbs; current ride, an '83 308 GTS, is injected. After initial cleanup and tuning, never had a problem with either.

I love my 308 and would like to have a carbed GTB at some point.

 

Don't forget drivability. I'm not going to pretend the FI wasn't emissions driven, but there are other benefits. No fuel stink, easy starting, smoother operation, no flat spots, etc.

This is a question about a first Ferrari. All of the things I listed above are important benefits.

Like I said before, if you have owned carb cars before and know what you are getting into, great. Otherwise, FI is less hassle.

I'd be happy with an early euro 308 GTB, but I've had lots of cars with carbs.

For the OP, dive both and see what you like.

 

Carbs may have their benefits but I don't think there are any issues with the FI system of the 308 QV or 328.

-F

 

Rust proofing started with '84 cars, that's one reason I chose to look for '84 or later. Also wanted the QV as I was advised it would be a bit more reliable with regular driving. I do not do my own work so that's a factor that may not apply so much for you.

As for rust, the rust proofing must help, but I would imagine that the more important issue is the current condition, how it's been stored and how it will be stored, how it will be driven and in what conditions.

 

I just bought my first Ferrari, 1977 308 GTB with Boxer trim. If you are into the "real thing", the carbs have the sound in the car that you can't beat.

 

But if you are in the state of California and having to pass smog with anything 76 or later, then a carb car can be your worst nightmare.