Italian brand AC Motorsport has unveiled the Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo, a new sports car developed with engineering and racing specialist Michelotto as a modern interpretation of the Ferrari 308.

Rather than chasing extreme output, the Gruppo 4 Tributo is built around a lightweight construction and a traditional driver-focused layout. The car uses a custom tubular chassis covered by lightweight composite body panels, giving it the appearance of a carefully developed 308 restomod while remaining a newly built vehicle.

Ferrari 308-inspired design

The car follows the proportions and overall footprint of the original 308. Its low nose features a black grille, horizontal daytime running lights and pop-up headlights. Hood and front-quarter vents echo the classic Ferrari, while flared fenders give the new model a more aggressive stance.

At the sides, the design includes sculpted rocker panels, a large air intake behind the doors and star-shaped wheels fitted with Pirelli tires. The rear continues the 308 theme with a large clamshell, black grilles, dual exhaust outlets, an exposed carbon-fiber diffuser and four circular taillights.

Naturally aspirated V8 and manual transmission

Power comes from a naturally aspirated 3.4-liter V8 producing 380 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired exclusively with a dog-leg manual transmission.

The car’s 950-kilogram curb weight is one of its defining specifications. That figure makes the Gruppo 4 Tributo 140 kg lighter than the original 308, according to the supplied details. Its output figures are less significant than the combination of the compact engine, low mass and manual gearbox.

Simple prototype interior

The interior of the prototype takes a functional approach. It features a flat carbon-fiber dashboard, a large display ahead of the driver and physical switches and dials across the center section.

Additional equipment includes a three-spoke steering wheel, a metal gated shifter and carbon-fiber racing seats. The cabin’s straightforward design contrasts with the more extensively sculpted exterior bodywork.

The Group 4 connection

The Gruppo 4 name refers to the Ferrari 308 GTB rally cars built by Michelotto for Group 4 competition. Those cars included versions that competed in the World Rally Championship, providing the historical link for this new tribute.

AC Motorsport was founded by Francesco Calzavara two years ago after his time working at Michelotto. The company has not announced when the Gruppo 4 Tributo will go on sale or how much it will cost.