The Real Reason James May SOLD his Ferrari 308!

James May recently announced to the world that he was selling his Ferrari 308 and made a very amusing video explains why (link below). I recommend you watch it.. but don't totally agree with the reasoning and don't think he was quite as upfront on the reasons he wants to sell it!
P.S this is not intended as a rant against James May, just thought it would be interesting to discuss it..
James May's original video... • This is why James May ...

[@jamesmay7587]

Great vid, interesting debate init?

[@Number27]

How awesome is this!! He watched it!!

[@isaacsrandomvideos667]

James May oh cock! It’s you!

[@angelogandolfo6374]

@@Number27 Cool or what?!?

[@Number27]

Very!

[@lonewarrior1543]

@@Number27 like your opinions on this subject....but i think there are alterior motives for James..

[@alexlang5649]

The "old" Ferraris looked so much better than the current bloated, vulgar, tasteless, plasticy junk.

[@Number27]

Totally agree!!

[@Farlig69]

Pretty much the same for all older cars - they all had a charm and a difference. They even sounded different - I used to be able to tell what car was coming down the street behind me from the sound... Now?? They all look the same & sound the same... boring trash. Modern cars are shite, given they may be safer but they have no character and they have no soul.

[@abadibi]

imo any car today looks similar. Except for the aston martin vulcan, i love how that car looks. But i believe its because it wasnt restricted and was a full on sports car.

[@theun-knownmusician5468]

I disagree. I agree older cars are more quality but I think the modern Ferrari’s look beautiful.

[@johnfoster7536]

Yehp the older classic cars where very easy to recognise and identify either visually or by the engine sound. Now its just bloated over inflated prices, with most cars looking nearly the same with lots of fancy keep up with the kardasian looks, and absolutely bloody awful artificial sounding engines with fake miss fires over run cackles etc.No wonder F! has become so boring to watch those bloody engines sound like a miss firing farting hair dryer lol.Bring back the old v12 NA and v6 NA engines with manual shift gearboxes where the driver has to work to get some where not let some bloody stupid computer do the work.

[@michaelhutin5451]

I hope more and more people think the 308 is rubbish, perhaps then I could afford one.

[@johnfoster7536]

Yehp and we can all dream of being magnum PI lol minus the 70's porn star tash

[@AV-ch6mu]

😂😂

[@hagestad]

@@johnfoster7536 Why would you dream to be Gay? Just be Gay.

[@ZxRx7]

Yeah, I agree, I hope everyone finally realises that the Carrera GT is sh*t, and if you own one you should sell immediately at a hefty loss!

[@trwsandford]

@@johnfoster7536 I'd grow one, if I had a 308! Love that car!

[@SteveDentonClassics]

James May sits there wearing a Hawker Hurricane t shirt, with a meccano motorbike he made in the background. Made a TV series Toy Story's about by gone toys and then slags off his Ferrari 308 because it's from the past. I lost a little respect for him for this

[@themessenger5868]

Oh my, I just read your comment...EXACTLY ! We think alike...

[@maseraticc2834]

Perfectly summed up !

[@jamesmay7587]

None of those toys have gone.

[@TheOfficialDaBoogaloo]

You really lost some respect for him because he doesn’t want everything he owns to be old? OK...

[@gottliebdee263]

I lost respect when he teamed up with those other two imbeciles........

[@livingroomguitarist7]

Translation: He doesn't want to pay for the belt service.

[@mr.airgun6921]

Sure you jest but it’s a very easy job on a 308 & not expensive.

[@livingroomguitarist7]

@@mr.airgun6921 yes just kidding, unless he lived in the U.S. where they charge you a small fortune for the service. It could actually be cheaper to ship the car to Italy and have it done.

[@dekik.979]

$2000

[@alphatrion100]

Its James may. Hes rich

[@betacam235]

Someone I know in France just paid 5k for a belt change on a 308!

[@bigfella6629]

I think James is talking out his arse, saying you cant enjoy old cars. Old cars have a lot more character then this modern rubbish they are churning out. Give me a car that I can work on myself without all the bloody computers and bells and whistles. Sure new cars are nice to drive but they just dont seem to have a soul and they all look the bloody same.

[@allanhughes7859]

100% agree !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@andrewmoorhouse687]

There’s a couple of good counter-arguments in favour of older cars. The very fact they are more ‘crap’ or, to be polite and more accurate, have less performance and lower limits, means they are much easier to fully exploit on the road. To my mind, many modern day performance (and especially supercars) are just so fast that a few seconds ‘blast’ means they are all too soon travelling at crazy speeds. The other argument is that keeping an old car on the road is almost certainly more environmentally friendly than building a new one. Yes, modern cars are more efficient generally and certainly safer, but typically a half of the emissions a car produces are when it is being built. Most old cars do low mileages anyway, so again, the fact they are turning more emissions out of the tailpipe is not a major issue. I find it hard to believe that driving any Ferrari is a crap experience though. Even if dynamically it’s not the best car you’ve ever driven, surely there’s just a huge sense of occasion from driving such a car? And who wouldn’t stop, get out and glance back to look at it when you’ve parked it? I don’t own an old car by the way, but the appeal isn’t lost on me. Especially with a car like the 308. It’s pure art.

[@Farlig69]

Total and utter bollox James... Old cars (and bikes) have character, they have soul, they lift your spirits. You can work on them yourself and they give you pleasure in so many more ways than any modern crap...

[@allanhughes7859]

199% agree sorry no 300% agree !!!!!!!!!!!!

[@simonhodgetts6530]

That Ferrari in blue is absolutely stunning!

[@jamesgallagher1992]

Yep absolutely fantastic looking👍👍

[@markbrill8944]

Totally agree. How good does it look ..

[@allanhughes7859]

NO IT IS NOT IT SHOULD BE RED FOR GOD SAKE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@oohaahbird]

Wish I was tired of having a 308

[@martinsayers128]

Enjoy driving the older models, look after them, but most of all, " Treat them with respect".

[@allanhughes7859]

199% agree !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@michaellorenson2997]

I like James May, but what he said was silly and misguided. I guess he was feeling pissy that day. Hey, we all do it sometimes. May is right, in the sense that old things are from a different time, and newer things have come along, each of which changes our perspective. But the historical context of old things, and their place in it, are therefore established. Enthusiasts are very aware of how old things relate to their own predecessors and successors, as well as to their competitors. Simply being old is consequently a critical part of their charm. So, stick it in your ear James! Ya daft bastard.

[@allanhughes7859]

like all big stars they miss the attention but they also miss the big bucks they earn /have had.....just look at how many are scrapeling around you tube holding on by a life thread trying to keep us on their side this is a good egg sample is it not ???????????????????

[@plektosgaming]

It really comes down to maintenance for most people. Barely working air conditioning, electrical systems that are crumbling, and spending 2 weeks to find a specific part. That's why people get rid of most old cars, including "classics". Something starts to fall apart and it becomes nearly impossible to replace and fix things. They just don't have the patience any more. But you will rarely every hear them admit to this.

[@PaulTC777]

some old cars are reliable like for example a BMW 2002 TI

[@bmstylee]

I obviously can't speak on the restoration market in Europe but in the States we have a huge market for restoring classics. You can build a gen 1 Camaro or a Tri 5 Chevy completely from a catalog. At least in America keeping classics on the road and doing it safely is pretty easy......aa long as you have the cash.

[@phantomracer1050]

I maybe in the minority but I would rather have an old classic than a modern car any day of the week. Old cars have character and personalities and give a more involved driving experience (whether it be good or bad). Just my tuppence worth :-)

[@VeyronBD]

Same, my daily and only car is a 1991 corolla and if anything I want something else a bit older even. You will likely have extra work to do with an old car but it balances itself out when you consider they are far more simple to work on in the first place.

[@hoonaticbloggs5402]

Yes but you need a newer daily. It sucks being by the side of the road

[@VeyronBD]

@Hoonatic Bloggs Well I've had it for 2 years now and I've not had any trouble with it. I do reasonable miles too (about 12k per year). Won't break down any more than any other car if its well maintained.

[@marcryvon]

@@VeyronBD Those Corollas were/are bullitproof. Period. For commuting purposes, they are great ! Let me guess. It's what was called "Champagne" gold with beige interior trim ! Right ? My wife's/family car is a 2001 Nissan Altima. Champagne gold/grey, beige/grey interior. Not an exciting car to drive, but comfy, great highway mileage, great HVAC and cruise. Ultra-reliable, rust free, so far. And it's NOT a dumb pseudo SUV ! What not to like !

[@VeyronBD]

@@marcryvon ha I managed to dodge the usual colors and got the light blue metal with blue interior. They arent exciting cars but they do handle quite well in tight turns and have enough power to get by, with the 5 speed it can do a comfortable 80mph and with reasonable revs. I will just buy a second in the future to fulfill the fun factor at some point

[@richarddarsa6353]

Ignore May, if he had a 250SWB he wouldn't be selling that would he? The man has a Tesla FFS! Rant over!

[@allanhughes7859]

James is James and probably missing the large pay cheque hence the up load !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@lascm5237]

As you say, James is basically doing a marketing pitch for a car he’s now tired of. Old cars are hard work to drive and maintain there’s no doubt, but for many of us that’s the bloody point. I drive my old unfancied black bumpered MGB coz I love it, likewise my BMW Z4 Coupe which armchair pundits clobber for being agricultural. They are challenging in very different ways but, again, that’s surely part of the enjoyment. I wouldn’t fancy either as a daily hack so I use my Landy Freelander 2 for that, and modern cars do a supremely better job of it but that’s not why we drive old cars.

[@scanspeak00]

Great discussion! Does this mean James is divorcing his wife for a young, hot blonde?

[@Number27]

Haha!! 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@wildolan]

No. One of those robotic ladies you see on the tech documentaries. :)

[@sethbranam9068]

The values of old Ferraris are clearly all wrong...right James. Lol. James’s pontificating aside. I love the 308 and many more classic cars. Driving them is not about comparing them to modern cars. It’s the feeling only that shifter , or engine sound can give you. Even the smell of the interior. Classics are..special. At least they are to me.

[@automotiveaffairsshorts]

James May has lost his mind... he has always championed old things, and then suddenly changed his mind! Make up your mind, James!

[@andrewgurney6019]

Old age and senile comes to mind!

[@acelectricalsecurity]

Is he not free to change his mind

[@th3b0untyhunter]

or its tongue in cheek from Mr May

[@allanhughes7859]

All to do with covid they all want attention but sadly this time its him !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@peterzabrdac4271]

I own a 1984 308QV in the same colour (Azzuro) in Australia (So its RHD) with the same Cream interior . I've owned it for 13 years and I've wanted one since I was a teenager. It gets driven a dozen or so times a year and every time it does I think to myself the Steering and clutch are heavy, driving position is uncomfortable etc: But the car never fails to make me and others smile. When I come home from a decent drive and put it away I go to sleep with a sore clutch foot ankle and aching shoulders I still am in love! I will never part with it. I've driven many other newer ferrari's and none have made me feel "alive" or are as beautiful as the 308.

[@v5cog]

Hi...its nice hear someone else has the same colour combo 308.. as I happen to own the car in this Video.. you also have good taste !!... i'm surprised to hear you have a heavy clutch? .. this ones pretty light.. and i drive quite often, and on certain occasions 50 to 80 miles at a time, and i never feel tired .. so it might be your clutch or cable? But i will agree, every time i take her out.. the smile i get from driving it and the smile i see on other peoples faces, is priceless... Its a fantastic looking car with an awesome classic car driving experience... one that modern ferraris sadly lack !!

[@peterzabrdac4271]

@@v5cog I'm 6 feet 2" and getting old (56last week) but will NEVER sell my 308! Power steering for parking would be nice (Yes I know a kit is available, but I'll never install it!), the clutch is heavy compared to newer cars is what I meant (Yes she makes me work but I always feel alive compared to modern cars)but the love affair continues. What's your chassis # if you care to share?

[@MasterMalrubius]

James May came across as an jerk. A smarmy, know-it-all attitude which is all opinion. Perhaps having millions allows you to experience only the top of the line where everyone else is amazed at a lower bar. I prefer Jay Leno’s attitude that a car no matter how old has its own charm and reason for being driven.

[@marcryvon]

Fully agreed ! But Jay is an exceptional guy. Yes, he can afford any car at any price, but he *drives* them. I totally agree with him, or any serious enthousiast , those things were made to be DRIVEN. Not hidden in a collection, waiting to appreciate in $$$.

[@Number27]

I love James, he is a great guy.. just thought it would be interesting to get some debate going on what he said! Thanks for watching!

[@pentagrammotorsport]

I very much thought the video James May made sounded like a person trying to come to terms with the end of ownership of an Italian car, nothing more.

[@hugeys]

I agree, “I once bought the best car I’ve ever had until I wanted to get rid of it”syndrome! Not knocking him though we all move on to better things apparently 😳

[@michaelwhelan564]

I wouldn't listen too much to James May. Whilst he seems a decent bloke he's started to sound like a plastic celeb having become a victim of his own hype...just my opinion

[@overbuiltlimited]

James May is a leftist and has consumed the global warming kool-aid. That lens colors everything he says now, especially when it has to do with cars. I agree, he is sounding a lot like a typical celeb more and more.

[@themessenger5868]

@@overbuiltlimited You are correct...He's always been too in to his own importance, most likely why he clashed with the Hamster so much.

[@ronaldderooij1774]

So, according to James, it is impossible for a person currently alive to enjoy Beethoven, Van Gogh, Frans Hals, Rembrandt, Dali, Shakespeare, Goethe, the Cathedral of Reims, Cologne, the Colloseum, or even the earth itself. Very odd. Many museums will have a hard time believing this.

[@allanhughes7859]

yep he is talking shit for attention how sad is that ??????????????????

[@nickb3968]

That really is a stunning color scheme on that 308. I don't think I've seen that color here in the States, but then again, I don't see 308's. I've always felt there's room for "tasteful" improvements on older vehicles without losing their character. It is a bit ironic for May to go back to a 14" tire and complain about the handling. The threshold is so high today on new sports cars that you can't sanely get close to their limits in most cases on the street anyway...it's the old cliche "it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow".

[@Number27]

Yes, absolutely stunning in that colour!! Thanks for watching Nick!

[@john1703]

Exactly, James Hunt drove around in an Austin A35 van, rather than his S Class.

[@hrys5483]

I was the previous owner of James May’s 308 and spent a year restoring the car. Guess what - I ran it on original 16’ speed line wheels shod with Pirelli P7 tyres and it drove beautifully. Took it to France straight from restoration and it went like a dream. I think James simply hasn’t connected with the car and is now looking for cars that are not hard/challenging to drive. The 308s are great fun, you have to work them to get the best out of them. I believe, from the owner after me who ultimately sold to James, that James elected to go back to the original 14’ wheels which I also had with the car. He’ll regret it when he sells the car.

[@Number27]

Nice to hear from you, thanks for watching!

[@flyinghedgehog3833]

Hi do you have the chassis# ? Thanks!

[@Neomet010]

Technically I suppose James is accurate along the theory of "A man never steps in the same river twice because it is never the same river and never the same man" but that is an immaterial point. One could make the same argument about the second time he drove the latest hypercar. It was an odd point from a clear lover of old things. That and the 10 min advertisement on why someone should buy it was a bit shameless.

[@d4vef81]

Totally agree I was left scratching my head after watching mays vid 😂

[@bugattieb110ss]

For me, the 'Golden Age' of cars was the late 80's / 90's. Cars all looked different from one another because designers weren't restricted by safety legislation. No abs, no air bags, decent brakes, fuel injection without emissions equipment or catalytic converters. Double overhead cam multi-valve petrol engines became common with many cars still being rear-wheel driven. Beyond 2000 cars became increasingly boring to both look at and drive, heavier, uglier and had hateful diesel engines along with front-wheel drive on every bloody make and model.

[@cp4512]

I think James May simply needed to sell his 308 to get the cash and is trying to justify his decision in an academic and intellectual way whereas everyone else just sells cars because they want to! How can he make this argument yet go on about old Spitfire aircraft, and not say that’s much older and more crap than an F35!!

[@MrFlux3d]

As someone who owns and loves to drive a Delorean I completely agree with what you say. It's not all about how accomplished the drive is. It's about the feeling a car gives you.

[@Rapidfireblade]

Old cars and bikes have something new stuff will never have....soul!!!

[@DLee1100s]

The irony is he says all that he does while wearing a T-Shirt with a Supermarine Spitfire on it!

[@Number27]

I know it’s hilarious!!

[@LOTPOR0402]

The fact that it belonged to him , will sell it and probably for more than its worth. When you become a millionaire ,and you have driven everything then only the best will do .Same with the clarkson and hammond . You only have to look at the classics they have destroyed in top gear . When they had nothing they would of loved to of owned those cars .All of a sudden they are spoilt, and nothing else will do

[@GlamStacheessnostalgialounge]

I really hate people who buy a car and then just... "preserve" them, which is a nicer way of saying they're letting them slowly rot away in a warehouse. I don't care if it's a modern hatchback or a Ford Model T, if I buy a car I expect to drive it, no matter the age or state. And besides, saying how old cars can't be appreciated because we got "better" cars now is a baseless point. Most people have not driven a sports car or anything new really. I'm used to driving old 30 year old cars with little engines making 50-70 HP and that's perfectly fine for me, a car with a big engine and 150 HP is still mind boggling and impressive to me, even if that is pretty weak by modern standards.

[@oohaahbird]

can you tell me why the gts has a grill over the rear side windows but the gtb's do not ? they look like they have a key lock on them, are they removable? just curious thanks

[@neildawes2857]

Hi, I ve owned my 78, UK 308 gts for 19 years. I agree they aren't the easiest car to drive. No power steering abs etc. But to me that is the whole point. The joy I get when driving mine is unbelievable. Drove it to the French Alps in July this year over 2000 miles in less than 10 days, 729 miles in one day. Just an awesome feeling, every mile of the way.

[@blackline66]

Think you nailed it. Who cares what he thinks anyway. Obviously he’s more interested in what he can get for his James May owned 308. Because hey... money is money. Interestingly he owns a lot of older motorcycles... Fireblades in particular. Hmmmmm wonder if he will sell his RRN 1992 SC28.... I know I won’t be selling mine anytime soon, especially as the prices shoot skyward. But it is about feelings and emotions..... or is it money hmmmm

[@hoonaticbloggs5402]

Bikes will always hit a ceiling though, especially mass production bikes. Not many mass production bikes go over around £6000. Owo1 NR 750 and the like a bit more maybe

[@rblake1730]

I’ve owned and daily driven Ferraris since 1988 and I think I have a good perspective on owning/ driving them. Right now I have six Ferraris and two of them are 308s,a GTS with carbs and a GTS qv. I also have a 360 Spider (manual gated shifter)a Testarossa,a 348 Spider and a F355 Spider. I absolutely love all of them and drive them all daily. To me it’s abundantly clear that all talk about “build quality,reliability,drivability” etc. is from people that have no a very little real life experience with these machines. These machines are truly pieces of mobile art that are extremely rewarding to own/drive. I recently drove a “new” Ferrari (488) with automatic transmission (the whole paddle thing is a complete waste of time to me,three pedal gated shift transmission is the only true Ferrari way) and it left me cold. I know it’s a cliche, but the earlier cars truly have a soul. All Ferraris since the very first in 1947 are amazing ,it’s just to me,the brand new “automatic” ones less so.

[@AB-80X]

You should drive the SF90 or 296. I currently have my 328 GTS as a daily in the "rotation", and both the SF90 and 296 are cars that I consider equally immersive. Ferrari is absolutely at the top of their game currently. Soul is defined by those who drive the cars and those who design them. It's not something the car has. A car is and will always be an inanimate object.

[@Alex-lx2pg]

Love your channel Jack! This is my very first time commenting. You make some great points! I did see James' video and I thought a lot of the same things that you mentioned here. Very true, a modern Ferrari will offer a huge different driving experience than a vintage one. It HAS to as any car manufacturer will improve on their predecessor. I think you are 100% correct on James' feelings that the 308 is a "crap" driving experience (for him) and that is why he is selling. However, we have to keep in mind that James was/is in a position to experience all the latest and greatest Ferraris and other cars for many years now. Going from those to an older model, you can understand why he does not like driving the 308. However, for most of us who are not in a position like James, we have only experienced lower end cars, and when we get into the driver's seat of a 308 for the first time.....It is a FANTASTIC experience! Kinda like a person who has lived in an old wooden shack all his life with no electricity or plumbing, and then moves into a modern studio apartment. What a great experience and dream home with great amenities!! Now, if the guy who's lived in a 7000 square foot modern mansion for many years of his life moved into that same studio apartment....He would say this is absolute CRAP!! Lol!

[@Number27]

Thanks for the comments and for watching buddy!

[@Alex-lx2pg]

@@Number27 Thanks for the great vids and channel!

[@chefgromano5025]

When I drive an older car especially 80s cars it’s a time warp back to a better time. The driving experience is different yes but I love it.

[@christoph404]

I don't think James May really believes anything he is saying in that clip, he is being au contraire to provoke an opposite reaction, he wants people to say, " I'll show him how wrong he is.." and that way people will assert their love of classic Ferraris and rush down to Kent to that Ferrari Centre and buy his car, James May is not a stupid bloke, I think he is being a very clever agent provocateur , full of contradictions and plain stupid comments, he made me laugh to be honest, I didn't take anything he said in that clip seriously, at times he was talking such outlandish rubbish that I was like.."whatever....hope you get a good price for your car" :-)

[@maxwells2602]

Someone with the money to afford and drive the latest Ferrari will probably have less appreciation for an old one, but yet some people play old video games even though they can afford the latest console because of nostalgia. So it is nice to have the car you dreamt about when younger. And look at Jay Leno's collection. Plus some old cars can be an investment.

[@theoriginaljc-j]

The 14" wheels and XWX tyres look fantastic. It would be really interesting if you could do a 14" v 16" comparison and present your findings. I recently changed my 22" low profiles to 16" with the fattest tyres I could fit on my E39 and the ride is more direct, quieter and far less harsh.

[@Number27]

Well yes.. from 22 to 16’ makes sense .. would be grays to try the 14’ wheels but I have been told they make for a disappointing drive!

[@fredvallenet]

Beauty is the eye of the beholder and nobody really ever understood James' digressions....

[@allanhughes7859]

WHAT ??????? HE IS A PRICK IN THIS INSTANCE NO DOUBT ABOUT IT I WOULD HAVE AGREED BEFORE HIS LATEST UP LOADS ITS ALL ABOUT MONEY AND KEEPING YOURSELF FAMOUSE HA HA HA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LIKE A CHILD WANTS ATTENTION !!!!!!!!!

[@andyp6724]

Clearly he needs the funds to finish the work on his house that he’s doing! Anyway, everyone know’s that the appeal of older cars is the analogue feel of them compared to the new upgraded modern alternatives!

[@howardscott7521]

Personally, I have no interest in taking car experience advice from someone whose moniker is "Captain Slow". The nice thing about older Ferraris is that they will allow to you push the car to its limits, and then just a bit farther if you dare. The newer ones won't. There are too many nanny electronics built in to ever let you get in even the slightest bit of trouble, which removes a healthy portion of the car's soul.

[@SDH-g8g]

I think James asks some good questions, but ultimately I agree with you. A car doesn't have to be competent or modern to be enjoyable, otherwise we'd all love driving Vauxhalls. It might not be possible to experience an older car in the way that people of the time would have experienced it, but then we get to experience them retrospectively, which is something people of the time wouldn't have been able to do (unless the car in question was a DeLorean). So in many ways, I think getting to experience a car retrospectively and see how it stood the test of time is even more fascinating than how it was recevied in its hayday. I think you have to keep one eye on the past to look at the future, otherwise it's easy to get lost. At the end of the day, you're right; He's just advertising his car in his own unique and watchable style.

[@2702simmo]

I’m not a James May or Hammond fan. Both talk bollocks so I’ve not watched the video I’d much rather watch your content Jack 👍

[@allanhughes7859]

Well said who ever you are Clarkson was the show and always will be as much of a prat he can also be at times but he is good at what he does ???????

[@000GunterGabriel000]

Lol, "Golden Age", bollocks. If anything we are in a time where the car as such is dissappearing. The vision Elon for example has in his mind is cars that you don't own, don't drive, don't configurate, etc that simply pick you up and bring you from A -> B and afterwards pick up the next passenger and make money for it's owner. That's not the golden age it's the red wedding of cars.

[@Number27]

Yes agreed buddy!! Thanks for watching as always!

[@DLee1100s]

I get a lot of enjoyment, from both mechanical engagement with the machine, and from nostalgia, while daily commuting in my 50+ year old MGs and, believe it or not, my 25 year old Toyota Celica. I've also recently bought a 2000 MGF which bang for buck is the best value car I've ever owned. I don't care that its 20 years old it makes me smile every time I drive it. Something I've noticed you do every time you drive your cars.

[@Number27]

Yes definitely..!

[@ChrisFEJackson]

Basically the way I see it, I bought a TR7 convertible back in 2006, I still own and have maintained it throughout. I used to run these cars when I was 20 years old. Now for me, I want to get into a TR7 and feel the way it performed back in the day, the smells of it the creaks and moans etc. I know modern cars can do a lot more such as my V8R F-type, but I want to have to drive my TR7, no upgrades brakes are as they left the factory and you have to use the gears to slow down, the front dips like crazy when braking, so I drive it with respect to the era it was designed and manufactured, I love it! Nostalgic driving at it's best.

[@gk77stuff51]

Got to say I don't agree with James at all. I think the more high tech and clever cars get the more people will reach out and start buying older/classic cars to go back to basics. Older cars especially sportscars/supercars have a soul and a character and that's what people want when looking for something special.

[@AB-80X]

My experience tell me that soul and sense of occasion has everything to do with how the car is built and set up, and very little to do with its age. Just to be clear, I think May is way off here, and do a great job of contradicting himself. I currently daily my 328 GTS and it's a hoot. It gives me so much joy and fun. You know which of the newer Ferraris also give me as much fun, and feels as lively and exciting going between 50 and 80 km/h? My SF90. Age, digital vs. analogue, power etc. Forget all that. It all boils down to what the car ultimately feels like - and Ferrari is currently on the top of their game in this regard. You know which Ferrari I think is the most lacklustre of the cars built from 1980 and until today - not accounting the 400 series and Mondial(just overall bad cars)? The 458. Unfortunately very few will stand up and point out the many little things that takes away form the fun of the almighty 458.

[@andrewgurney6019]

James May is a dinosaur , a man well past his sell by date , just like the other two fools from Top Gear. Never trust the judgment of a long haired ,middle aged man in t-shirt and who needs to lose weight. Classic cars are to be cherished , no they are nothing like modern cars in terms of performance but thats what makes them so special.

[@n3307v]

Great video as always. I've owned a slew of older sports cars but when parts and repairs became and issue, I moved on to newer models. Your 308 GTS is a great example, I'd love to own one but the headaches of ownership make that a bridge too far.

[@stewkeene]

Your opinion of the yesteryear cars is really one of appreciation of where we we’re, so we understand where we came from as cars are concerned and I understand that. I also understand where James May (or May not) is coming from as far as appreciating the newer technology as a real appreciation of all things new, but not necessarily better. The point being, sometimes we need a reminder. Owning and appreciating an older car really reminds us of the difference, at least for those of us who can afford to appreciate it.

[@timgosling6189]

Given Mr May's obvious and oft expressed interest in old things his reasoning looks more like a bit of man logic to justify getting something different, and there's nothing wrong with that. As to 14" wheels, the reason many 308s were switched to 16s was that by the '90s it was almost impossible to find a 205/14R70 or something with the same rolling radius that was rated for a 150mph car. Stocks of BF Goodrich Comp T/As ran out and the XWX recreations weren't yet available. Do 16s change the handling? Well steering effort is much the same, you lose a bit of compliance and gain ultimate roadholding, but in my experience the edge of grip becomes a little more abrupt. On 14" XWXs a 308 can be set up on a circuit into lovely 4-wheel drifts with little effort. A more modern set up tends to grip harder and then let go; it's the owner's choice.

[@conrod7]

Quite right - I switched my 14" 308 wheels with 16" 328 ones just to get tyre selection

[@straightbusta2609]

Woah that thing is a beauty 🤩

[@JonBushell]

I’ve only ever driven one Ferrari and it was a 308. Round a track. And I thought it was terrible. Especially as the pedals were offset. Very uncomfortable in my opinion and makes me just enjoy others driving them and listening to the sound.

[@KiwiStag74]

Firstly, James is right on one thing - it is a fabulous car to look at and lust after. However, the remainder of his video had me in mind of when I had to sell a car I didn't use much because I found something else I liked to drive more. I used any and all excuses to justify why I was getting rid of it, when I knew I would really prefer to have it sit in my garage until the day that I could take it out and drive it in the way that I used to enjoy. I knew the day would come when I missed having it around and would want to drive it to reminisce, but I talked the car down to myself (and others) until I felt I could sell it without it hurting so much. I was wrong....and I think James will realise that one day soon, if he has not done so already. I drive a Triumph 2500S saloon and a Triumph Stag as my dailies and use them for everything from a blast in the country to the weekly shopping run. Sure, they aren't supercars or super rare or even super expensive, but you dont see many being used on the road like they were 40 years ago.....and they make so many people smile when they see the cars that even though they have their foibles, moods, tantrums, idiosyncrasies and quirks - and the fact I have threatened each of them on many occasions that I will sell them - I won't get rid of them. I like seeing people's faces light up when they see the old girls out and about - little kids pointing, teenagers staring and older folks coming up and chatting about them. Trust me (and you'd know this yourself) - if you want to meet people, buy a classic car and drive it around town on a regular basis! But they are genuinely happy to see the cars and because of that, it makes my day also. Something positive happening in the world for a change......and THAT is why classic cars should be seen on the road, not holed up in museums where you have to guess how they sound or look when moving......plus the feeling you get of taming the beast when behind the wheel......and THAT, my friend, you CANNOT beat!

[@robertl2856]

In a money no object garage.....does his opinion honestly count ? (Lovely colour)

[@NH00531]

I wasn’t entirely sure why he made a video about selling his Ferrari. As joe public I couldn’t really care less about what he’s buying and selling etc. which is why I would agree with Jack that it was just a convoluted way of promoting it to get rid of it ASAP. Disappointing. Some food for thought. Still, want a 328 GTS even if it is old! 👍

[@simonhjc]

Spot on. I have a 1979 toyota landcruiser fj45 with a genuine 113,000km. It has drum brakes, no pwr steering or air conditioner. It has a am/fm cassette player. It rattles and hums. I put tubeless all terrain tyres on (replaced the split rims), for better steering. And i love it! Its like owning a rolex/omega/traser automatic watch. It just tells the time. May is trying to compare that with an apple watch…. I love the experience driving old cars without distraction from a touch screen etc beeping/dinging/taking my pulse etc….. james is trying to be deep and meaningful. Instead, he dived into the shallow end of the pool and hit his head.

[@gbruno5542]

Back in the late eighties a friend of mine ran a auction wholesale company and we had the pleasure of experiencing almost every exotic car of the time, but the best memory I recall is of this 1978 chocolate brown Ferrari 308 . The car wasn't particularly fast but man did we love the feel and sound of that car .

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I think that May is trying to align himself with a younger audience, who won’t necessarily be interested in classic Ferrari’s, and will more likely be more interested in a hybrid or electric car. If you look at his current fleet, he’s acquired at least 2 electric cars, and has started to be a real advocate for new car technologies.

[@neilstevens8504]

I couldn’t agree with u more. I have a number of modern sports cars and a number of classics and I would without doubt choose one of my classics because I enjoy the driving experience by a long way. Far more absorbing and consuming. The sounds, smells and feel are far more involving than the detached modern car driving experience.

[@Lee_Pitcher]

Having owned a GTSi I sort of know where JM is coming from. In fact I was pondering this thought the other day before I saw this and the JM video. I was wondering how a 308 fitted into a modern world. Yes it looks absolutely stunning and always will but if you have a mint car you can't take it anywhere really. Going to the shops is terrifying as you're worried someone will roll a trolley into it etc. It doesn't handle that great, isn't particularly fast by todays standards and well, isn't as much fun as other cars of similar era. You'd have much more enjoyment as a driving experience from a 105 Alfa Coupe where you can really rag it around the bends etc. You will have a much bigger grin on your face having had a more connected driving experience ! The 308 is lovely for long posing cruises but as a driving experience....there is better

[@stevemoon2136]

I've never owned a Ferrari but have had a number of classics in my time. It's not always about nostalgia nor is it an adjective decision. It's personal preference & it's not anyone elses right to tell me what I enjoy or what I like. We're not all as luck as JM to have such a wide choice.

[@sinistercharger]

He's an Old Thing himself but unlike the Ferrari I don't think he's is a Classic. He makes no sense maybe he should just go electric and be done.I bet he eats lentil casserole

[@MasterMalrubius]

Hey! I like lentils.

[@bretkaiser7355]

I love James May, but if I had a 308 I would just watch lingerie models pose with it all day.

[@v5cog]

Bret Kaiser sounds good to me 😜

[@Leathersladekitchen]

I think he makes a valid point, it’s an old car and it drives like one, my dad had a 348GTB and that was hard work to drive in modern traffic. I drive a 20 year old Boxster, but it isn’t that difficult to live with, it has power steering, the Ferrari didn’t, it has a nice gearbox that’s not heavy, the Ferraris was heavy, the clutch is perfectly nice to operate, the Ferrari would give you cramp in traffic as it was so heavy. The air con works, the Ferrari didn’t, the electric windows are quick and one touch, the Ferraris were temperamental and slow. And before anyone knocks a Boxster, all those things are the same as a 911 (be it 996 or 997). Anyway, out of interest, what’s happened to the Pantera?

[@GenaF]

James May obviously thinks he's a clever man using the analogies he did 🙄 when the truth is, he's quite a pillock.

[@Abrothers100]

I haven’t been excited about a new car in ages. 1. If it isn’t a manual I might as well drive a grocery getter. 2. Racing is now about who has the better computer. I want the analog no computer assisted go cart type of Porsche or Ferrari experience. It doesn’t have to be the fastest, it just has to be fun and a unique experience that tantalize all of my senses. The smell and feel of the leather, the sounds coming from behind, the rituals to stop/start/check oil/fuel up/climate controls, etc. while my 997 is a great car, fast, and fun... I don’t love it. It is just has a mass produced cheap plastic feel to it. I like the imperfections of human construction of the old P and F cars.

[@johnfoster7536]

totaly agree with you i want to be the one that makes decisions about when to change gear, how hard i rev the nuts off the engine and how much i want to press the brake pedal not some dumb ass bloody nintendo computer.the whole point is to feel what the cars doing even if its the wrong thing like losing traction and trying to throw you in a ditch

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

Don't know. I owned a Fulvia for 12 years, and sold it because I just drove it only because I had it. Never missed it since. And indeed since then don't bother about classic cars anymore: no comparison to newer cars. It's like a nice painting: you do not hang it in your garage

[@garryglover661]

Agree 100% peeps all like different things, don’t get peeved because someone has a different view. Don’t want to live in that world...

[@Number27]

Desperately want to get a Fulvia!!

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

@@garryglover661 my Fulvia was completely original, and had no rattles or whatever. I replaced the complete interior, etc... But driving it daily is a pain in the ass, and driving 150km a day to work makes you drive it in the weekend only. If you still want to drive at all. And it is raining, of course. And if you own a cabriolet and a motor cycle too, and love biking you get stressed the moment the sun breaks through 😟

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Hello from New Jersey. Love your channel. Thank you for taking the time to make this.

[@Number27]

Hey buddy, great to hear I have a viewer in NJ!! My best to the 🇺🇸!

[@alunrees3056]

For what it’s worth, I think it’s entirely relative and subjective. As Mr May has driven many contemporary high performance cars, cars I’m personally unlikely to ever see let alone be handed the keys to, he is more aware of the 308’s relative short comings. He also suggests hanging a Jackson Pollock on the out side of your house would be a public service, I couldn’t agree less with him on that one!

[@imouse3246]

James is attempting to have his cake and eat it too. "You shouldn't" sounds objective to me, when driving a car is very subjective.

[@baloobagheera5482]

Grandpa James is waaaay past his sell-by date not unlike a stale carton of milk...his logic is completely screwed. He looks ridiculous in teenage clothes (ironically wearing a Spitfire T-Shirt)...I think he should orient himself to the senior home....game over.

[@chuckm5874]

I would take his 308 in a heartbeat and cast my brain back to the 70s. Isn’t the joy in driving/owning a 70s car because it’s from that era, because it’s rough and simple and guttural and has a feeling you just can’t replicate in a modern car?🤔🤔

[@soyabean911]

In an era of fast, electric, and boring sounding (quiet) modern cars I (and I'd assume most) mature people LOVE the old performance cars. It's nostalgic, it's analogue, it's real, and after all it's about the way it makes us feel! I love that Ferrari more than the latest stuff bcoz I grew up watching Magnium PI and dreaming of owning one. I think perhaps when you have so much money and can buy anything that may change your perspective. But for 99% of us, we'd love it, and we'd keep it! Ferrari 308 we love you! ❤️

[@000GunterGabriel000]

Simple answer? May is not a petrolhead. He always cherished old cars to differentiate himself from the others, now he simply switches to electric, ditches petrolengines and so no need to praise old cars anymore. Hence the selling.

[@TheMentalblockrock]

I have to say I completely disagree with just about everything James May said in that video. It is very sad to see how far the members of the "old" Top Gear have lost their way since Clarkson got fired for punching someone. I guess Amazon money has warped their views and opinions. May was talking complete crap!

[@wurlyone4685]

Conversely... Both Hammond and May have gone out and bought old cars (in Hammond's case, several of them and very old!)

[@TheMentalblockrock]

@@wurlyone4685 I admired Hammond's love for "oliver" if that was ever genuine or for TV humour!

[@wurlyone4685]

@@TheMentalblockrock it's entirely genuine. He still owns Oliver.

[@alZiiHardstylez]

I couldn't disagree more with James May's take. I understand his perspective but the 'feeling' one would get far out weighs the negatives. He's just grown out of love with it. Amusing way to sell it though. Someone got a great deal.

[@maseraticc2834]

Excellent discussion point Jack and very well put. My thinking is that his reason for selling the 308 is simply a case of when May has a couple of hours free to take a toy out for a drive, he much prefers to take the modern 458 supercar which has immense performance rather than a late-70s sports car which has only just over 200-odd horses. I can to some extend understand this as one of my fun cars has almost 400bhp, and the other 155bhp, but sometimes it's not all about the power, for me at least... I think he's has got to a point in his life where he can't be doing with careful ownership like allowing the oil to whavingbells

[@miamimo70]

Love James May, but I don't agree with his car choices, you must be nuts to sell a Ferrari and buy a Tesla

[@PixelVogue]

Hes too busy bumming that tesla

[@Jon-mv2ck]

Great video. Very similar to me. I had a fantastic blue 1977 308 that I owned 10 years but basically never drove. I only have parking for 2 cars so in the end sold it (too cheaply) and bought an Evora. Sure enough I miss the Ferrari of course to own but I actually get to drive the Evora a lot and enjoy more trips more often etc. It can also be used for errands if required. 308 was only fun to drive on special days with no traffic and there are not enough of them in my life presently with kids and lack of time. Also constant worry about rust, door dings, parts availability is not fun with a 308. I will buy another Ferrari again but wonder if a 360 is a more practical Ferrari for people who actually want to drive it a good bit? Even thinking maybe another Italian motorbike is more fun, easier to park and usable.

[@Number27]

Loved my Evora!! Have a few videos on that too. Similar colour to the Ferrari.. thanks for watching Jon!

[@BanjoLuke1]

1. James May is an accomplished musician. His music analogy works. 2. I drive a modern car and a 1961 car. People bang on and on about performance and horsepower and braking and so on... But almost nobody on a classic pushes the envelope AT ALL. Very few even prod the throttle or brake pedal very hard or twirl the wheel with verve. Old cars are old cars. May is not saying they should be in museums.... He's saying they are not as many people perceive them. And they're not. He is right.

[@johnphaceas7434]

Well my '81 Alfetta GTV is a bit pants to drive by modern standards too. Crunchy 2nd gear, obligatory body roll, squeaky suspension, play in the steering, slow compared to most modern econoboxes, and not the most comfortable seats. It smells of old car too. But I open the taps, the twin Webers start sucking, and the exhaust snaps, crackles and pops. And I love it. Who cares that I'm not actually going all that fast?

[@4wheelsonmywagon733]

The 458 Specialè is still hugely relevant - likely more so now - understanding it is the last normally aspirated Ferrari V8.

[@allanprits3484]

For me it's not how it drives but how it makes you feel driving it. I don't think they're intrinsically linked. That's the key with older cars.

[@cobrapub]

In 1997 I bought Bob Sharps 1979 308 GTB Ferrari B class rally car,after a through going thru I took this car to my favorite speed run,the McNight run and took it to 197 MPH when in St.Petersburg at the same time Miss P Dannika was claiming 193 MPH in her ferrari at the Grand Prix!Yes it was Ferrari red to honor the old man and when I drove it I felt like royality!So when the opertunity in 2018 came again to buy a 1979 308 GTB Ferrari "B" rally car,I bought it even thought it was stored for 40 years and was modified by the orginal owner,a HUGH MISTAKE!I got her back on the road and in rally condition,the transit gear rally pack gives the car an SR71 feel of accelloration and after tuning the 4 carbs gave me a real drivers car!My first time on the Hyway was really somthing as I approched 98 MPH the other cars blasted me past 100 MPH,My reaction was to cut back and remark "WHOA BOY,NOT HERE NOT NOW" that was when I noticed the Lambo following in my rear mirror! Some say the 308's day is done I say you are not a driver,the last thingI want in a car is GOODIES,Paddle shifting heated seats ,self driving cars ,wifi,PCM's!Oh and one 1 last thing the first car was red to honor the old man the second I repainted from Silver gray to LaFerrari BLUE for me!

[@Kiwittgmail]

The newer the car the smaller the "heart" of driving.

[@RickCT2000]

Great insights and arguments. Would be great for you and James May to “debate” face-to-face with Clarkson as the judge. Given Jeremy as the arbiter you’d be sure to win on points! Nicely done.

[@y0057]

You are right, he is not being totally honest. I would not use his views to determine how I view cars anyways. For me they were entertainers (who lived in a bubble) not pure subject matter experts. Anyone who uses his views in terms of cars deserves what they get overall. By the way totally good observation and analysis of a TG presenter at odds with himself.

[@thomass8118]

The most import question is: define 'better'... Fast, cheap to run, reliable, practical are things that make 'a car' as means of transport better, but most petrolheads don't care as much for these things. I like cars because they are different, good looking, well engineered or because they remind me of 'the good old days'. So there is no right or wrong is this debate.

[@kevinoakes1171]

Thing is, these ARE old technology, and that is EXACTLY why people would want to buy one. They are uncomplicated, relatively inexpensive super cars. You can work on it and fix it / service it yourself, for just the cost of the parts, you also learn about your car at the same time. Newer cars are all about computers, sensors, electronic wizardry, which is all great till something goes wrong, then you HAVE to take it to a dealer or specialist and the parts and labour prices are through the roof !, not to mention that you have to have a laptop with the correct software, which, in some cases costs upwards of £1000 before you’ve even plugged it in !, just to diagnose the issue. Stick with old school tech and get your hands dirty and enjoy the fruits of your labour, makes for a better, more fulfilling experience all round.

[@searaydrivingguy]

I owned one for 5 years that sound of the motor that certain smell of the leather seats the way you almost feel like your flying a small plane at high speed on the highway whats not to love

[@richardcarter1000]

Some good points. I have a collection of 6 cars and I use and enjoy them all. The modern stuff just works which I tend to use when the weather is miserable. I went to trade my F355 for a Mac 570s a year ago but turned back. The Mac is way quicker but actually the F355 is so much more special. You are far more connected to the driving experience in the F355 with no electronic aids etc and of course a open gate manual gearbox. It's hard to beat a TR6 on a sunny day in the Dorset lanes where I live. Narrow, connected and it makes a lovely noise/feels faster than it is. Today, I just got back from Sainsbury in my 1963 Morris Mini Minor. Still the best shopping car and way more fun than my modern Range Rover. I love James, but I'm not a fan of hybrids, EVs or anything else that feels more like a washing machine on wheels to me.

[@AB-80X]

Have you driven the SF90? I currently daily my 328 GTS, and second on my list of a car that feels equally fast and fun at 80 km/h is my SF90. Age and tech does not have to be the main thing when it comes to how good a car is at being fun. It all has to do with how it drives. On the flipside, both the current 992 GT3 6 speed and the 458 which many love so much, are cars that I feel are completely void of actual depth. The 992 needs to be flogged way too hard to feel exciting, and the 458 just have way too many artificial sweeteners and little issues to be any fun and "real".

[@richardcarter1000]

@@AB-80X I've not driven a SF90. I guess my favorites over the years have been more about character, feel, noise. I've loved my Astons, and one of my faves was an 85 Alfa GTV6. Always going wrong, buy wonderful on a good day.

[@matthewbell1968]

That blue 308 is a thing of absolute beauty Jack 👍

[@Number27]

I know!! Great colour!!