Kyosho 1988 Ferrari 328 GTS Spyder

The Ferrari 328 GTS was built from 1985 to 1990. the model code refers to 3.2 liter, Grand Touring Spyder (or Targa) distinguishing it from the 328 GTB (the 'B' for Berlinetta or coupe). This Pininfarina designed sport car evolved from the 308 model with new, simpler lines with improved aerodynamics, a bored out transverse mounted V8 with Bosch fuel injection. Although made mostly from steel with an aluminum front hood, the incorporation of a race worthy oval-section tubular frame and judicious use of fiberglass for non-supporting components like wheel wells, this model weighed in at only 3165 pounds which made it lighter and yet more rigid than its 308 predecessor. The interior was more or less a 308 upgrade with more luxe leather bound appointments like armrests and map pocket. Over the 5 year production run, 6068 328s were produced with the removable top spyder version accounting for 80% of the total production.

From the 308 to the 348 and GTO models, the 328, to me, was the most elegant body style of that line with the way the C-pillars connected the roof line to the rear deck in one bold sweep. In essence, all the body components were smoothed out and unified into a magnificent piece of automotive sculpture. Kyosho has captured those lines to perfection with this model. The major body panels fit together almost seamlessly. The glazing is optically crystal clear and the paint is flawless. Some nice touches include polished metal stampings for the Ferrari script on the deck and the model script on the rear fascia. Be sure to seal these with clear acrylic as the will catch a polishing cloth. The ubiquitous Scuderia Ferrari badges on the front fenders are replaced with tiny replicas on the door mirror supports. The biggest disappointment from me was the lack of open louvers on the front hood and rear quarter window covers which, in plastic, would seem relatively easy to effect. The cooling intakes on the rear fenders are also not open but are effectively paint simulated.

The light groupings are fairly well done and represent the European configuration so the side lighting is limited to a tiny cabochon behind the front wheel. The front light groups would have benefited from a touch of sanding to remove sprue remnants. The rear lights do show locator holes and are missing the black metal trim rings. The popup headlamps are bullseye free but the large actuating pin protrudes from the fender half way to the ground and is very toy-like and distracting. Finishing the exterior description, the period pentagram wheels are well done with the convex center that indicated this particular model was equipped with ABS. Rather than the standard 16" Goodyear NCTs, the model has rather pedestrian generic tires that appear identical in diameter whether front or rear rather than having larger diameter (225 vs 205) rears.

The black interior is competently replicated with some nice touches like cloth restraints with metal hardware. The carpeting has a scale pile. The leather seats are properly textured soft plastic with artful simulated stitching that makes the look even more convincing. The dash is two pieces with the components molded in and pad painted to pick out details. The classic chromed shift gate really stands out in an all black files and the shifter is properly scaled. All in all, with the roof piece off, the interior looks quite nice.

Lifting the engine cover on its arc hinges, the first omission I noticed was the lack of supporting struts. The luggage compartment was modeled without the canvas and vinyl protective covering. The transverse mounted V8 looks quite accurate with its red washed intake box heralding its displacement and 4 valve per cylinder configuration. The wiring is well done ending in little plug boots at the cylinder heads. The inclusion of all the spec plates as separate stickers adds to a very realistic look. The front bonnet houses a full size spare with, I assume, tire changing or inflating instructions fixed to one of the wheel spokes. Hidden, just aft of the grill, are the cooling fans which are molded in a single piece.

Personally, I'm not sure if I qualify as a Tifosi or just a Ferrari voyeur, but these classic designs are something I can just sit and stare at for hours. My love affair with Ferraris are less about gizmology and more about art appreciation. So for all the nit-picking I've done about this model, I must say I find it esthetically satisfying and it will get a front row seat in my collection. It is truly pretty to look at and admire the genius behind the 1:1.

-Rich Sufficool