Ferrari 288 GTO 1000km review plus why I didn't buy one back in 2005 & bought a Zonda instead 

Harry, I have personally known this car a number of years as well as many other of the same kind having worked for the place who’s name you can read on the number plate of B10 GTO. Mr F the owner is the person that all of us petrolheads dream to be if we were ever to win the lottery, a true enthusiast. A couple of quirky facts that are not mentioned in the video: -272 ever made, makes it the rarest of the “5” by far, they made more than twice as many f50s which comes second in this department. -this car is a hybrid of 3 or 4 different cars, two of which are in your garage. The front suspension and brakes are all testarossa monodado, you can unbolt it from a 288 and fit the whole lot to s testarossa and vice versa, same parts. The wishbones and upright would also work on a f40 but the brakes on those were much better. The 288 uses the same ate style calipers of your testarossa which date back to the Daytona days. The rear is much the same, slightly different from a TR as the 288 has a single strut as opposed to the twin system on the testarossa. -wheels and tyres also straight from an early TR. -steering and rack are from a 2/308/328 and in my opinion there is better stuff out there. Sitting crooked with the wheel slightly upright isn’t the best position and the feel can be notchy, but this is down to how hard a life the two UJs on the column have lived. - the engine is accessible from a panel in the cabin much like an f40, belts spin around with almost no covers whatsoever, not uncommon to find lots of mud packed where these vital components live! -the most common service issue for these cars nowadays (288 and f40) are their gearbox bellhousings going porous, which will require hours and hours of getting them out and either laser weld them or replace them altogether. A lot more money than the feared belts service which on these is merely a doodle. -the car you drive has a “tubi” exhaust system, much louder and raspier than the standard silencer which, I’m sure you know, makes this car almost too quiet. Thanks for bringing us with you again, hopefully these few details can add to the informative and no frills nature of your videos.

Only Harry could have a friend that lends him a £3.5m car for a couple of weeks and says go and put some miles on it....just fabulous!

My absolute favourite car since I was 8 years old. About 15 years ago I spotted one on the North Circular, I managed to get along side it bursting with excitement. Managed to shout to the driver something like “OMG that’s incredible, my all time favourite car, you’re so lucky etc”, rather than being a tool (like me) he shouted back also bursting with excitement something like “I know right, I’ve just picked it up, it’s been my dream, I can’t believe I own one”.

The 80's were peak Ferrari for me; you're so fortunate to have the Testarossa, 288 GTO and F40 all in one place! Thanks for sharing them with us.

Favourite Ferrari by far. Looks incredible from every angle, and with the exposed transmission at the back. Something else.

The most beautiful car of all time in my opinion. Not a bad angle on it. It even looks stunning from above.

Two things I love here, first is how Harry got so excited showing the car off he forgot the key, second is the owner of this car who shares his rare and iconic cars and wants them to be driven.

What a generous owner. Amazing that Charlie and Harry were able to do so many miles in this car, fantastic that it is being used so well. Wouldn't it be perfect if cars were worth more with more miles, they would tell more stories - This video is another snapshot in this cars history. Amazing that it rides so soft, shows the roots with rallying and group B. Imagine if Ferrari did that today. Thanks for continuing to bring us this content.

That rear design has to be one of the coolest in automotive history. Timeless.

Always preferred this over the F40. Had no idea that the engine intruded so much into the interior.

I saw one of these in the flesh a few years ago in a small Ferrari display at the Star casino in Sydney. There was also an F40 and other assorted exotic cars, which drew a big crowd. I was just planted in front of the GTO, drooling like a child. It is simply the most beautiful car ever assembled.

About 20 years back, I was driving past a florist with what I thought was a 308 parked outside - until I spotted that gearbox. I was in a pretty legendary vehicle myself, but it faded into insignificance parked next to the 288. While soaking in its magnificence, an older, suave gentleman exited the shop holding a bouquet. A picture-perfect representation of who you'd imagine an owner of such an automobile to be. He was gracious enough to engage in polite conversation and even commended my mode of transport while I drooled over his. I expressed my preference for his steed over an F40. He humbly conceeded that considering the 288's abilities already surpassed his own, he didn't see the point of switching. After a glance at his watch and an apology for having to go, he fired up the beast and departed, leaving me mulling over the incomprehensible thought... ...that even an owner of a GTO needs to buy someone flowers?!

That feeling, when you have probably all the most beautiful Ferraris of all time in your garage.

Holy grail! When you've got a 288, an F40, a testarossa a countach and an F50 in the same garage, you know you've reached car lover's mount olympus. thank you so much for sharing such an experience for us mortals, who dreamed of this car as young kids

I remember reading a story about Eddie Irvine (who was driving alongside Michael Schumacher in Ferrari F1 at the time) getting pulled over by the carabinieri in some Italian city for driving a 288GTO like a lunatic. Once they realised who he was, they basically cheered and sent him on his way.

Incredible. One of my childhood favorites. That front 3/4 view with the quad lights, huge wheel arches, massive side intake, and the tall flag mirrors has been burned into my brain since the 80s.

What I love most about Harrys videos is that he provides evidence in his videos. Eg. Decibels, spec/prices etc…reminds me of “show your workings” from school lessons.

Quite possibly my favorite Ferrari. Well, at least in the top three. LOVE the design.

Favorite car of all time. Was in college when it came out, and I remember like it was yesterday. Even though they weren't available in the states, a number made it over in the grey market. Years later when I bought my Mondial, the dealer had one of these on the show room. Almost cried sitting in it. Truly an amazing car.

When it was released I thought it was the most beautiful car ever. 40 years later I still think so. Thanks Harry 😊

What a hidden gem that is. I think I prefer the shape over the F40. Just superb.

One of the most beautiful cars ever built IMO, just a piece of art from any angle. Judging from a couple of the close up shots (and the odometer), the owner of this one actually drives and enjoys it, which is admirable. Far too many of these cars (and perfectly understandable given their extreme cost) sit in garages, only emerging (if at all) to go to car shows or to auctions. Really enjoyed this episode.

Peak Harry. Love his deep dives into specialist cars. Wonderful. Thank you!

Yet another thorough and real-world review of great car. Actually one of your best videos in a long time - much appreciated!

A GTO, F40, Testarossa, and Countach in the same garage. It's a 1980s fantasy! Amazing to see them together. Plus an F50 also.

The 288 GTO and the F355 are the 2 best looking Ferraris of the last 40 years. Bellisimmo!

Harry, thank you for this treat! The point of view camera set over your left shoulder took us along on the marvelous 288 GTO test drive! I’ll never get closer to the driver’s seat of this visceral machine. I could watch hours of this. Thanks to the owner for making this possible!

This has been my favourite Ferrari since the day I picked up Autocar and Car Magazine back in 1984 on the way home from school. Its looks and power was incredible in the day. It’s one of the all time classics. It will be like a DB5 as one that you could just stare at all day. But knowing it’s so useable is just incredible. Thank you Harry for bringing this to the channel. Best of the best😊

My favorite Ferrari!

My gosh, that is a gorgeous car. Simply stunning. Surprised the owner hasn't had custom seats made that look like the originals but are much more comfortable. Wouldn't be that expensive in the grand scheme of their garage.

Another happy day with Harry. I am so grateful to have these experiences relayed to me. Harry has such a wealth of experience and humble enthusiasm for these automotive gems.

I remember when road and track did an article on the gto when I was a kid and I just starred in awe. All these years later nothing has changed.

Worth to mention that it held the title for the fastest production car and it also it was first production car that went above 300km/h. It is my favourite Ferrari of all time and my top 5 money no object car ever produced.

My dream car since I was a kid. Glad to see one still being driven the way they were intended to be!

Harry will never have a cooler more iconic car in his garage...ever. Thanks for sharing Harry, just WOW!!

Whilst I completely appreciate that the new stuff gets the views it’s the classic cars which get my juices flowing. The 288 is an all time favorite. Keep them coming, Harry.

Styled like the 308 should have been. Very special car. Glad to see you’re back on the classics, Harry.

All your videos are great, Harry - but this one is really special. You have such a knack at bringing to life the experience of driving these incredibly special cars. Thank you. I did drive a GTO myself about 10 years ago for 10 minutes around the Dunsfold perimeter road at low speed - still a special moment!

A fabulous video! The 288 GTO is quite simply my favourite car of all time. Achingly beautiful, wonderful to drive and rare as hen's teeth! Thank you so much (and thanks to the wonderfully kind owner of this car too) for posting this. I get the feeling I will be watching this video again and again!

My ultimate childhood dream car, and nothing has changed. It's still the 'one' I'd have over any other. Adore it in everyway, although I'd prob need to bolt in a diff driver's seat! Brilliant video again Harry and what a great owner for sharing their incredible cars.

1 of the most beautiful cars ever build! And an evenly good review.. thanks a lot Harry! Made my day!

When a storm knocked out our internet for four weeks, I didn't watch RU-vid for a month - when we got it back, Harry's Garage were the videos i most wanted to catch up on. Didn't realise before , but my favourite channel! Variety, informative and so much knowledge imparted... Thanks Harry and the team. (Fabulous car).

Fantastic to see a £3+ M Ferrari being used as intended! Good effort and good on the owner for letting you stick some miles on it and really experience the car. If only all rare Ferraris were used in this way! Great review Harry 👍

My word, never has a car looked as good as this rolling up in that opening shot. And driving chops to boot. A case study in why you don't need the performance of modern hypercars. Also applies to something like an Integrale, or Clio Trophy for that matter. 288 GTO is a car you extract satisfaction from. But, in the end, what separates this from anything else are, the looks of the bloody thing. Fan bloody tastic. Great review.

I love your videos, but this may be my all time favorite. It's my favorite car of all time and its a pleasure to see you driving and enjoying it.

From day one I was in awe of its looks.. that hasn’t changed and learning it was light and a real quick thing, well, it’s the dream Ferrari for me. Thanks as always Harry.

Thank you Harry for that video. I couldn't believe it was over at 23 mins, if you were talking about the 288 for 2-3 hours it still wouldn't be enough. Still my absolute, all time favorite Ferrari design.

Just beautiful,. My favourite of all the Ferrari's. Thanks Harry for taking us on that short blast around your local roads. Love the channel, good luck to you my friend. 👍🐺👍

huge thanks to harry for sharing this, not often you get to see a 288 GTO anymore due to their values now. truly iconic car and i think i prefer it to the F40.

Well done Harry! You have propelled us into ULTIMATE Supercar HEAVEN! ☺️

Another stunning review 💜 I remember this car being launched. The way it squirms sideways up that hill.. Great review… Thanks

I've been a fan of H'sG for a long time. This is without a doubt one of my favourite vids. Great insight. Thank you.

The first time I saw one was at Zandvoort. A distinguished French gentleman who his GTO on the track flat out. His daily driver was a BMW 5 Series. All I could think of: I'd like to be like him.... Harry, you can feel the passion you have for this car. One of your best videos ever. What a car. What a soundtrack. All modern production pales next to this amazing car.

An awesome car, so much prettier than a lot of Ferraris. Congratulations on Harry positioning the side window camera so the steering wheel covers the speedometer - nicely done!

My favourite car of all time! Sat here with a huge grin on my face & “phwoar”-ing every other minute over the noise & design… Just unmatched content Mr.Metcalfe! Thank you for the incredible videos

Thank you sir harry……love the way you react to the driving feel of the cars. Bring almost a virtual feel to the drivers seat.well done , keep them videos coming.

A proper geek out on the 288 GTO, cheers Harry 👍 One of my most favourite of supercars!

My absolute favorite car, full stop. Noticed a goosebumps power sliding on the straight... WHAT A CAR!

My goodness Harry, what a pleasure this video was. Thanks to you and to your mate who lent you the car!

Harry - THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for sharing this video with us. What a very special car, a hero car for me and so many, and you got us as close as possible. A car so pretty it makes you want to weep

I had this on my bedroom wall along with the F40 and the Porsche 959,Superb thanks harry for the memories 👍😉💪

Letting you have a Drive of his 288 GTO is one thing, letting you put over 1000 km on it is completely another. He must be one hell of a friend or you must know where all of his skeletons are buried?

My God I love your channel Harry... The true spiritual social media successor to your EVO days. Thank you 🙏🙏🙏

I can’t tell you how much I LOVE your channel . THANK YOU ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For me the 288 GTO stands above the F40...it shares the podium with the F50, 250 SWB and 250 GTO...rare, beautiful and road useable.

The 308 was an achingly pretty car but the evolution to the 288 takes that shape into perfection. It's the sort of car you just want to run your finger over and feel the curves.

Always liked Harry's videos. Very chil and packed with relevant info. And his love of cars can't be more obvious. Props to him for driving these cars, sadly most GTOs and Zondas are garage queens now.

AWESOME video. Thanks Harry and the owner of the car for sharing this piece of motoring history with us!!

Fabulous. The best looking Ferrari ever. Cant imagine a 288 GTO selling for £160.000 !! The first of the supercars 👍Pretty epic to have a 288 GTO and a F40 and a F50 in the same building

Hi Harry, great review of my favourite car. The black 288 for the Sultan of Brunei started out as red and LHD and was owned by the UK’s Ron Stratton. It featured in an edition of Car magazine. It was then owned by a lawyer, and was part of another article in Car magazine comparing it to an Aston Martin owned by Rowen Atkinson. It then went to Brunei after being repainted and changed to RHD.

I’ve been waiting a long time for this video and it was worth the wait! This is easily the best GTO content on RU-vid! Thank you so much for this video Harry! The GTO is my favourite car , full stop, and this was just such a pleasure to take in. I’ll be watching this many times over in the future!

Fantastic video! This and the F40 were my 2 favorite cars growing up. I had built a scale model of this car in the mid 1980s and actually saw a 288 GTO on the road in my hometown in Southern California in about 1987 and completely lost my mind! I don't think most people at the time would have known what it was given the rarity, but I immediately recognized it as a GTO (gearbox was the first clue) as approached it from behind at a stoplight. I have never seen another in person since despite attending Cars and Coffee in South Orange County CA regularly. Although I'll probably never own one of these, I do get my Italian, Ferrari derived 2.9 liter, twin turbo fix with my 2018 Alfa Giulia Quadrifoglio... So jealous but also thankful for you sharing all of your observations with the rest of us!

Fell in love with the 288 when it was launched and still my favorite Ferrari. Living in SOF and spending lots of time in Monaco you see most supercars but in 25 years I’ve only seen the 288 once. Just a gorgeous machine. ❤

Can we take a moment and think what it would be like to walk in your garage and see a Countach, Testarossa, 288 GTO, F40 and an F50? Granted they aren’t all Harry’s but still….hot damn.

my childhood dream car, had a black Bburago model and fell in love with the shape. still love it now. thanks Harry!

I wanted to set this video to watch later, but then you sucked me into it again Harry! Best in the business!

Great video, as ever. Fantastic car; we rarely get to see them being properly driven. Thanks to the owner 😃👍

I take a 288 GTO over a ZOnda any day!! First hypercar in the world, amazing machine!

Watching that gorgeous car squirm under hard acceleration made my day!! What a fabulous thing. Ferrari at its absolute best! Wonderful video, what a Sunday night treat!!

Achingly pretty, the ultimate evolution of the 308 shape. For my money, much more desirable than an F40.

Thats the last of the well designed Ferraris. Looks masculine and simply beautyful.

.....I smell those garaged F40 and F50 reviews incoming too, finally!!! Meaning Harry does back to back comparisons and the world will be an even happier place - really put a smile on my face this video, thank you Harry!

I have a hard time getting my friends to lend me a lawn trimmer while Harry's friends lend him million dollar cars to drive the wheels off. I need new friends.

Amazing, fabulous and utterly beautiful. Nothing touch’s Harry’s Garage, nearest you’ll ever get to having a drive in solid gold classic like this. ❤️

Had a poster of this on wall as a teenager absolute dream car it’s beautiful and the performance, wow . Can’t believe the price but then just look at it. Great review

As a teenager in the 80's I loved cars and especially the 308. Am not a huge Ferrari fan, but this video may turn me that way! Fabulous video, amazing that the owner entrusted the car to you for the review and my thanks for bringing such joy to so many. Long may you continue living the dream for us all mere mortals.

One of these was sat on the concourse lawn at Goodwood Festival of Speed last yr and barely anyone was even giving it a second look. I sat on the grass next to it for around 1/2 hr just drinking in the first one I'd ever been that close to in the flesh. Still probably the best looking car ever made for me.

Oh Harry.....thank you so much. This is my all-time favourite, since I saw one in the flesh in 1987. You have filmed me a dream. Best wishes and thank you again.

Such a beast of a car ! Wild yet understated. Old school turbo motors sound amazing. Proper revvs ! Top review Harry ❤

Wonderful. Thank you Harry and the owner. Peak Ferrari for me, followed by the Dino, F355 and 458. I remember an EVo trip, following you to, then around Silverstone in the Zonda back in the day in my F355. You're a legend Harry.

How legendary is the 288... yes, every child/fanboy of the eighties worshiped this wonder, this gorgeous marvel of the beginning of the modern era of incredible road cars... Just eff-ing gorgeous from every curve and angle... great video... Thank you and the lucky owner.

Without a doubt one of the best looking cars ever featured on this channel. Awesome. Thanks. Luv and Peace.

Love to you Harry. Keep churning up more good stuff.

Awesome Harry! Thanks for sharing!

Tremendous in a multitude of ways: the magnanimous friend, the car, and Harry himself. Cheers!

One of my dream cars has been since it came out. Great to see you drive it Harry and get your feedback on it.😊

Beautiful to see, thanks Harry, another great video 👍🏆

Superb video, thanks Harry.

Epic vid - thanks for sharing Harry !

Thank you Harry! Fantastic video! My all-time dream car, and now I want one so much more badly than ever!!! STUNNING 🤩