Ferrari

In November 1973 the Dino 308 GT4 was introduced at the Modial de l’Automobile in Paris. It was a groundbreaking model in several ways: it was the first production Ferrari to feature the mid-engined V8 layout that would become the norm for the company in the years to come. It was also the first production Ferrari with Bertone designed bodywork. Pininfarina was upset by the decision to give his rival the design, considering all they had done for Ferrari. The styling featured angular lines entirely different from its curvaceous 2-seater brother, the Dino 246, and was controversial at the time. For fiscal reasons, a low-displacement version of the V8 called the 208 GT4 was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1975. It was produced exclusively for the Italian market, where cars with engines larger than two litres were subjected to more than double the VAT.

The cars were sold with Dino badging until May 1976, when they received Ferrari badging. During the energy crisis at that time many prospective owners were hesitant to buy such an expensive automobile not badged "Ferrari", being confused at the significance of the Dino name. The rebranding allowed it to be seen as a legitimate part of the Ferrari lineup. However, sales did not greatly improve and production ended in 1980.