Michelotto GR4 Tributo

Not many may know that Ferrari once went rallying. Its weapon of choice was the renowned 308. The V8-powered coupe was race prepped by Michelotto. The Italian firm built the cars to race in multiple series, including the world rally championship. The Michelotto GR4 Tributo is a reprise of that dirt-chasing racecar built for the new age. It was released on the 50th anniversary of the competition homologation of the
308 Gruppo 4.

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New, but familiar

The Michelotto GR4 Tributo has that familiar wedge-like profile that created millions of Ferrari fans, thanks mostly to the Magnum PI television show. However, the reimagine GR4 has been given more aggro than the 308 as it looks more hunkered down with resculpted rocker panels as well as a different treatment front and rear. The alloy wheels are similar to the original in design, but larger at 18 inches across. You’ll also notice vents and louvres along the body, similar to the racecar.

For ease of use, the front and rear ‘clamshells’ open like that of an F40. The fenders are flared to accommodate the larger footwear. The rear pillars are of the ‘flying buttress’ look, ie they are not attached to the body but instead allow airflow over the engine cover. LED lights are used front and rear. Somehow the new car also retains the pop-up headlamps as seen on a 308.

Click here to read our Ferrari F40 driving review.

Ground-up

The Michelotto GR4 Tributo may look like a restyled and modernised 308, but it is all-new from the ground up. It features a tubular spaceframe, with an integrated roll cage, that is covered in lightweight carbon-fibre panels. It also features double wishbone suspension with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars on both axles. Massive brakes front and rear, 345 and 328, respectively, are clamped by four-piston calipers.

Click here to read about another restomod Ferrari 308.

Sited behind the cabin is a 3,4-litre V8, we’re guessing taken from a 328 then enlarged. The naturally aspirated unit pumps out 280 kW at 8 250 r/min. Peak torque is rated as 363 N.m. Power is delivered solely to the rear axle. The engine and transmission are mounted transversely to create a low polar moment of inertia.

A five-speed manual is the only transmission on offer. The company is offering up to eight gear sets for its creation, depending on how short, or long, you want your GR4 geared. There are no electronic aids, just your right foot to meter out the power. If that power figure doesn’t sound impressive, keep in mind that the mid-engined machine tips the scales at 950 kg, a little less than a Mazda MX-5. That combination of numbers should make it pretty lively to drive.