Market Position:
The Ferrari 288 GTO was a homologation special built for Group B rallying, later repurposed for road use. It was an exclusive and high-performance supercar of its era.
Key Competitors:
Porsche 959, Lamborghini Countach, Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Performance Focus:
Designed for extreme performance and racing pedigree.
Design Heritage:
Evolved from the iconic 308 GTB and 250 GTO.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanations of engine functions, cooling system, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Information on fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel tank.
Electrical System:
Overview of battery, alternator, ignition system, lighting.
Transmission Operation:
Guidance on clutch operation, gear selection, and transmission fluid checks.
Braking System:
Description of hydraulic braking system, parking brake.
Suspension And Steering:
Basic information on suspension components and steering system.
Climate Control:
Operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
Body And Interior:
Explanation of doors, windows, seats, and controls.
Dashboard And Instruments:
Identification and function of all dashboard gauges, warning lights, and controls.
Daily Checks:
Pre-drive checks including fluid levels, tire pressure.
Fluid Checks:
Guidance on checking and topping up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, clutch fluid.
Tire Pressure Maintenance:
Recommended tire pressures for different driving conditions.
Lighting Operation:
Proper use of headlights, taillights, turn signals, and interior lighting.
Refueling:
Instructions on fuel type and refueling process.
Emergency Procedures:
Basic guidance for emergencies such as tire changes or jump-starting (if applicable).
Depth Of Coverage:
Operator-level maintenance and basic troubleshooting, driver information.
Engine Type:
Mid-mounted V8, longitudinally positioned.
Displacement:
2855 cc (2.85 liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 69 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)
Horsepower:
400 PS (395 hp; 294 kW) at 7000 rpm
Torque:
476 Nm (351 lb-ft) at 3900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, twin-turbocharged by Garrett AiResearch
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 12 liters (12.7 US quarts)
Cooling System Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Crash Test Ratings:
No official crash test ratings available from modern agencies due to era and low production.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional or for later models, check specific VIN.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Body Construction:
Steel chassis with composite body panels (fiberglass, Kevlar) for weight reduction.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog radio, cassette player (optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS (as an option for some models) and power steering. Focus is on driver control and mechanical feedback.
Connectivity:
None by modern standards. Basic electrical systems only.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual, typically at 10,000-15,000 km for timing belt inspection/replacement and full fluid service.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 recommended for performance use.
Coolant Specification:
50% Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and 50% distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Early twin-turbo systems can be prone to heat-related issues if not maintained properly; intercooler system integrity is crucial.
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch K-Jetronic can require specialized knowledge for tuning and maintenance. O-ring degradation can cause leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, aging wiring and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Body Panel Fit:
Composite body panels require careful handling; stress cracks can occur if stressed or improperly repaired.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter W 940/5, Fram PH8172 (verify for exact application).
Air Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual for specific part numbers; usually specific to the intake system configuration.
