AC MOTORSPORT x MICHELOTTO

Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo

Italian companies AC Motorsport and Michelotto, both based in Padua, have unveiled the mid-engined Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo—a vehicle inspired by the Ferrari 308 GTB Group 4 race car from the late 1970s.

The Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo reportedly combines classic design and an analog driving experience with modern race-car construction technologies.

In 1978, Giuliano Michelotto—founder of the company that bears his name—collaborated with Ferrari to prepare the 308 GTB for rally competition, in accordance with the Group 4 regulations of the time. Although the car proved to be very fast and secured numerous victories, it was not well-suited for winter conditions or gravel surfaces, which prevented it from becoming a serious contender for the World Championship. Over the years, Michelotto continued to prepare Ferrari models for various forms of motorsport, accumulating a wealth of technical expertise in the process. Today, the firm specializes in the design and production of race cars.

AC Motorsport, founded by entrepreneur Francesco Calzavara—a former Michelotto employee—joined forces with the company to create a modern reincarnation of the Ferrari 308 GTB Group 4: the Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo. The Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo is not a restomod; it does not require an original Ferrari 308 GTB as a base for its construction. Instead, the vehicle is built around a tubular chassis, featuring carbon-fiber body panels that faithfully replicate the appearance of the classic Ferrari 308 GTB—retaining even the iconic pop-up headlights and the signature round taillights. Lightweight, five-spoke 18-inch wheels also serve as a tribute to classic Ferrari models.

The interior, designed for two occupants, does not prioritize refined aesthetics; it is strictly functional, featuring a rugged carbon-fiber dashboard and a rectangular display that presents instrumentation in a traditional, analog style. There is no infotainment system; all buttons and switches are physical, large, and clearly illuminated.

Positioned transversely behind the cabin is an all-new 3.4-liter V8 engine—engineered according to classic principles—which utilizes two valves per cylinder. It produces 380 hp at 8,250 rpm and 363 Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, while the vehicle’s weight is a mere 950 kg.

The suspension system is equipped with adjustable shock absorbers, while stopping power is provided by ventilated disc brakes with four-piston calipers.

The car is fitted with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires. The Michelotto Gruppo 4 Tributo will be produced in a limited run aimed at affluent enthusiasts of classic Italian cars; however, the price, production volume, and delivery date have not yet been announced.

Autonews