Why I SOLD The Most Important Car In My Life And What's Next?

The Influenzo has finally gone for good. The purchase of my Ferrari 308 has been instrumental in my life and for my KZbin Channel, so why sell it and what will I replace it with?

[@ExUSSailor]

I'd imagine owning a Ferrari is much like owning a boat. The two happiest days in the owner's life are the day he buys it, and, the day he sells it.

[@jonathangalloway6796]

The relief 😂 as no more overdraft from the bank 😂😂😂😂

[@lucasmoreno5330]

🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@James-cs2wi]

Not rong never buy crap @@@

[@sltillim]

Incorrect for me! for many it is a way of life of working on the car and driving it. some are in and out. for them your description is correct.

[@sltillim]

Rule of the four F's - if it floats, flys, f*cks or is fast.

[@MrDDawson]

I love the look of the 308, not sure I could have sold it. You brought it back to life and it will live on, be proud man.

[@phatlaz1974]

😢

[@gagamba9198]

The pride is well deserved. You were incredibly tenacious w/ the 308 and resurrected a car that most others would have given up on due to the number of hours and sold for parts. I hope the new owner enjoys it and your next project is even more fulfilling.

[@johntapley2549]

I started watching your channel at the beginning of the 308 purchase and I was hooked. I've loved watching the highs and lows of this adventure and I can see why you're so emotionally connected to this car. Maybe the new owner can send an update of its arrival in Texas. Meantime I look forward to see a Pantera of some sort, another of my favourite cars.

[@Number27]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@AlanKaplan-ky4iq]

M no worries

[@nonick8490]

Perfectly summarizes my experience with the channel and my feelings, LOVE the Pantera even more than any 308!

[@pauln0371]

Sad day Giacomo 😢😢 But a Pantera will be mint...👍👍

[@robpetersen87]

Selling our family's Testarossa was bittersweet. It was wonderful to have the experience of driving such a legend, but the terror of an exploding diff or some other catastrophic repair (followed by a bill that could be upwards of 50% of the car's value) made seeing it go kind of a relief at the same time. And its replacement? A Pantera of all things! No regrets. The Pantera is incredible.

[@Number27]

Ah glad you have a Pantera and that you like it!!

[@Phiyedough]

That will become a more familiar concern as more people get EVs, they also have a component that will cost a small fortune if it fails.

[@Nord_Mann]

@@Phiyedoughyes! EVs will certainly make us hate cars to the bone going forward. I was quoted 80k for a Taycan battery when I checked out of curiosity. Got rid of it!

[@marknelson8724]

We will miss the old beater. You really built some skills as you worked through all the problems. The next cars will be well served by your experiences. I don't know that we will ever see such a signature video series from you again but one can only hope although now I realize I may be wanting to see a car torture you like the Influenzo did. Perfect name, really.

[@MrSambalee]

Having been through cars like the 308 and Urraco and others for a decade I also recently decided to move away from Ferrari and Lamborghini but mainly due to the lack of and cost of spares for them. It came to the point where either you cannot buy a part, anywhere, or that the cost was basically unwarranted. So a few years ago I sold up (after a £9k clutch job!) and started reading up on the De Tomaso. The findings were encouraging namely that you can pretty much buy everything you need, but also the early cars with the Ford 351c engine means that all the engine drama of a Ferrari/Lambo goes. Turn key motors for the Pantera are cheap as chips since they were fitted to the Mustang and farm trucks - albeit with appropriiately different specs. But don't let that make you or anyone think you are buying an American car so to speak. The sound from a Pantera is mind blowing compared to the smaller engined Italians and the drive is difficult to describe other than it's gotta be the closest thing to a Spitfire for the road and you hang on to the wheel for your life. My Pantera is truly wild with it's stroked and bored 6.4, billet heads, cam etc. Electrics are reasurringly badly Italian so you will be comfortable there :) , but the running gear is robust to say the least and really simple with all parts available. People moan about the brakes, but I find them ok at normal country road speads. The body is the big issue as you know and they can rust like the best of them, but mine is absolutely rust free so there are plenty of good ones out there. Like you want to do I also switched to the smaller chrome bumperettes and it dramatically changes the car for the better not to mention losing the weight of the big federal ones. Finally you should immediatly join the De Tomaso UK drivers club detomasodc.co.uk/ I'm not a club sort of guy and in particular both Ferrari and Lamborghini owners clubs are a bit cliquey but the Deto club is definitely not! It's a lively group of very hands on owners as that tends to be the kind of person who gets a Pantera and has a lively whatapp group with loads of useful chat. Good luck with your Pantera and please get in touch if you need help and advice as I've already pretty much been through every corner of mine in 2 years of owning it.

[@dcarbs2979]

Classiche not running a good service these days?

[@MrSambalee]

Not really@@dcarbs2979 even basic parts are no available and if they have to make them then they are a significant % of the value of the cheaper cars. E.g. Lamborghini Urraco flywheel was something like £5k from the factory. I can get a turn key performance 351c engine for around the same.

[@carlharvey7098]

WOW! What an emotional journey you (and us) have been on over the years mate, so proud of what you achieved - now raise a glass to the influenzo and look forward to the future. ❤

[@Number27]

Thanks old buddy.. only just found this comment. Happy new year!!

[@CapitulationTrader]

Thanks for the time with the car and the channel. I enjoyed watching you demonstrate patience I’ll never possess. Cheers

[@dalerowley6039]

I’m both pleased and gutted for you at the same time Jack. That was one special car with its soul fully restored. Thanks for sharing the making of these memories with us.

[@ba2724]

Jack, we all love you and the 308, and THANK YOU for wearing the PJs for the sendoff!! This makes this incredible journey even more special. Thank you, Jack, and we look forward to fun vids with the Pantera.

[@Number27]

Errm… have you watched the video till the end?

[@gregorystewart6539]

That was quite an accomplishment. You built a channel with over 100,000 subs and we have all benefited from the experience of seeing an epic troubleshoot of a car most of us can only dream of owning. Thanks for the ride! I am as saddened as you. So, on to the next project. The world's most exotic cars go to Dubai and then get parked. Might be a happy hunting ground for a car. There are many to pick from.

[@leebuckles2364]

Sad day jack but sure you will create more great vids with your next project

[@Number27]

That's the plan! Thank you 🙏

[@michaelstocklin9080]

My favorite part about the Influenzo is the one step forward two steps back way the project went. its how my cars usually go too.

[@jensfrederiksen6843]

Thank you for introducing Influenzo to us Jack. I recall the day you bought it and cherish all the updates you shared over the past three years. That little car brought lots of great moments to us all, not least during the difficult months in confinement.

[@ndvanrooijen]

It was a great documentary. Thank you so much for sharing it. Enjoyed from start to finish. I am convinced that you will find the Tomaso Pantera and hope that you will make another beautiful documentary of it so that the world can enjoy your passion. Thank you for sharing.

[@S-Ltd1000]

You did a great job on that in the end Jack. Good luck with the search for a Pantera and sod the pension.🤣

[@redsidebiker]

Hi Jack. Very brave posting with that raw emotion visible on the day that "The Influenzo" went. Having sold most of my favourite cars in the past (mostly due lack of funds to run 2 cars and a Ducati), I feel for you. I love the way that Pistachio is nosing around your garage!

[@downesy68]

Congratulations on the sale Jack. I’m one of your pre Influenzo subscribers so I’ve been with you all the way on this journey. Good luck with the next project.

[@keithgreen9009]

I seen one a few weeks ago near my home and you came to mind straight away . These cars aren't normally cars , they are cars with historical value and you were part of that and the journey now continues

[@nickmoore2301]

I know the gut wrenching feeling of selling on a car that has been loved and cherished for such a long time. Hard to believe its been 3 years 😮 Like many have said I found your channel through your experiences with this car and will miss your love hate relationship with the 308, but it's time for an exiting new chapter 😊 Your are very lucky being able to do a job you love and buy the cars you want, all your hard work is paying off, keep it up👍❤

[@1ongava]

End of an era, but many of us where there before the Influenzo, and many more will stay after! Can't wait for the next chapter

[@AndrewDobie]

I will never tire of your laughter at 8:30. Joy, disbelief, fear. Amazing!

[@Dwelijan]

You can very proud of yourself, selling something like that car, which is so dear to your heart. I know it feels painful, but we know we‘ve been through pain with the car as well. Once had this situation were I had to sell my 635CSi and it took me such a long time to deal with it and accept it. But once it’s gone, you’ll also feel a relief and it’s always a great thing to move on and try something new. Pretty sure you‘ll not regret your decision in the long term. I never looked back but feel happy I had a great time with the Bimmer…

[@Number27]

Thanks chap!! Life has to move on!!

[@WizzardPrang]

That was tough to watch. Thank you for sharing the journey with us, Jack.

[@herrickmky]

What a journey! has been followed the series for 3 years. look forward to the new project

[@jonathangalloway6796]

Honestly, it only feels like 6 months 😮😮😮 that is scary! But a great 3 years viewing for us may not be so much for you! I remember that you had not one grey hair 😉 before the 308 😂😂😂😂😂 ✌️✌️✌️👌👌👌

[@broomad]

Felt like this when I sold my mustang but hey, done that - on to the next Jack 😉

[@joelvantwillert]

Gone but certainly not forgotten. Proud to say I have witnessed the Influenzo saga from beginning to end. And now, on to new beginnings!

[@eze8970]

Thanks Jack (& James), onto new adventures! Influenzo legend will not be forgotten! Looking forward to you unveiling your next project! 🙏🙏

[@Laz_Arus]

Gonna miss that little red bundle of angst and joy. 😞 Thanks for bringing us along for the journey. Hope you find a Pantera to your liking soon and that it has at least a few minor issues so we can be looking over your shoulder while you sort them out. 👍

[@ryanmccormick2150]

End of an era Jack! Onwards and upwards buddy! A pantera will be a cool addition tho..... I'm still getting over number 27 being sold Never mind the Influenzo! 😢😉👍

[@leeh9420]

I'm so sad to see it go :(. Looking forward to your future. :)

[@iansmeath8674]

Hi Jack! I started watching your channel because of the 308 so.........good bye from me! No no no, of coarse not😁 You have built this channel with great content, your undying love of cars and your great personalty! Long may it continue mate!

[@Number27]

Thank you buddy!!

[@presstodelete1165]

Reminds me of when I sold my first MV Agusta, at the time I needed the money more than the bike. What I didn't know then was that over the next 17 years I would get to own about 20 of them.

[@philhawley1219]

You lucky bugger. One old Ducati is fun but sometimes hard work. And a Bonny. And rebuilding a BSA. We are martyrs to the cult of great but sometimes frustrating vehicles. My daily work vehicle is a 27 year old Discovery, the most modern vehicle I own and she is still as solid as a rock.

[@twoknuckles]

Very sad to see this video. I've watched since the very beginning due to my sinful worship of the 308 admittedly. It's been fun, and although I still favor the 308, I'm looking forward to the Pantera vids. Carry on friend!

[@dl242ti]

Congrats on finishing the saga of the Influenzo. I think you did a great job bringing this car back from it's neglected condition. Happy shopping for the replacement.

[@tristan7586]

Don't want to know what you got for it, but I hope it paid you well. You really transformed that car, and it was great viewing content. Thanks Jack for sharing your journey! :D

[@verdict1163]

I don't think I've ever seen a more tasteful selection of cars at one show. Your subscribers have good taste!

[@robsmith1a]

I still miss the 328 I sold in 2006. I think a lot of 80s cars are actually better suited to todays road conditions than modern Ferraris. I like narrow cars and you can rev them out a bit without risking your licence every time you do so. I enjoyed your journey - hope the next ones is as much fun.

[@foadrightnow5725]

When I think of Ferrari, I think of that exact car! The 308 is such a gorgeous timeless design that epitomizes the sexiness of the Ferrari brand! Bittersweet to see her go, I'm sure!

[@michaelpegasiou4531]

You gave that Ferrari part of your soul that’s for sure,look forward to the Pantera and selfishly hope it has a few fixable problems to add some comedy value to my day 😊

[@Number27]

Thanks dude.. no doubt there will be issues…

[@manumores]

Totally wasn't tired of the Influenzo at all but everything has its time to shine and fade away eventually. Sad to see it go BUT, i'm sooooooo glad it's successor will be a Pantera!!. What a design! I never ever ever get tired of those hips and closed eyes. Looking forward to it! Great call Jack!

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Awesome vlog. Looking forward to the new car and series. Keep up the good work.

[@andrewgurney6019]

Gutted , that was such a great car and was superb to see you working on it to make it so special. But also very pleased to hear there will be another project, the reviews are ok but nothing is better than seeing you work on your cars.

[@grahamtipping4891]

One of the best series on You Tube, I've even started to watch again from the beginning. Sorry to see it go but look forward to the new adventure.

[@jonwarshawsky5288]

The 308 isn’t really replaceable. I’ve had a 308 QV and 328, as well as two air-cooled 911s. They’re all unique in their own ways, and I’d take any of them over a modern car. Once you’ve invested the time and money, a classic sports car is hard to part with. They are “the most important car” in our lives, absolutely. I’m currently the custodian of a 1993 911 that has required some significant refurbishing, but selling it would be traumatic… it may be a forever car for me, despite its shortcomings.

[@bartoni79]

That’s awesome!! Good luck with the Pantera. What a great replacement. Best get some shares in Shell

[@edwowen]

Free motoring! Fine work! Look forward to the replacement!

[@paulallen1143]

I found and started watching your channel when you got the Ferrari. Really impressed with your fix-it skills and attitude. Hope you find a Pantera, those are such neat cars. I have a Porsche 944 I have loved and wrenched on for 34 years. Also have two Jags, F-type and XJ8. And I bought a 1952 Chevy pickup I am restoring. I really like the wrenching and fixing from your channel…shared knowledge and experience helps all us “gear heads”. I can only imagine how tough it was to sell the 308, but keep looking for that Pantera!

[@seanoneillsongs]

A truly real and emotional video. All the best for what’s next. Back in about ‘75, my son came back from Montessori school and, even at just four years old, was raving about a ‘flat’ car one of his friends was picked up in. It wasn’t until a couple of weeks later, I saw it - a pristine, white De Tomaso Pantera. Hope you get a good one.

[@mattmpower5977]

I can’t believe its been 3 years!! I remember the 1st vid on this car ,who knew it was going to be a real roller coaster!!! Looking forward to a new chapter !!

[@btilly75]

Sad to see the old girl go, Jack, but I can't wait for your next project!

[@Number27]

Thank buddy!!

[@TheRedRocket]

I suppose that some day, I'll have to let mine go too. It will be a heartbreaking day. You have my sympathies.

[@patrickodonnell4109]

We learned a lot watching the Influenzo series of videos. Thank you.

[@Number27]

Great to hear! Thank you 🙏

[@phil920]

Gosh Jack selling this gem for a Pantera ... at least you'll have fun fixing it ;)

[@nickwright5531]

Shame I missed your meet-up. The Cotswolds Barn is local to me too.😢 It's a stunning 308 and you've done a fantastic job bringing it back to life.

[@thetruthwillout3347]

I can totally sympathise with you. I was getting choked up when I sold my 69 Mustang Mach 1 and watched it disappear over the horizon on the back of a car transporter. I spent nearly 5 year's of blood, sweat and tears restoring the car to showroom condition....so it was quite a wrench! However seeing the pile of cash laid out on my kitchen floor did soften the blow....this was before internet banking when we dealt in cash! The garage didn't stay empty for long as I soon bought a stunning BMW e30 M3. So your sadness now will soon be replaced with joy when the Pantera arrives....but you'll always have fond memories of the 308. Looking forward to seeing it.

[@bzilla1090]

Damn Giacomo, i feel all teary eyed, the influenzo is what brought me to the channel as it has always been a dream to have my own Ferrari. I hope the new owner takes care of her as well you did.

[@cryptopatient2574]

I’m sad too 😞 I know the pain .Good luck with the next project.

[@johangenade9314]

Looks so beautiful when you pulled it out of the garage, I know the feeling ! but awesome anyway. Best of luck with the next project !

[@dannystrachan475]

That laugh on the couch for a second reminded me of Tom Selleck. Pretty car...amazing start up sound.

[@robsx4280]

Beautiful car, been a fantastic series and my childhood dream car, well done Emillio ❤ what a car.

[@MrTaurrean]

One of the most beautiful cars ever made,I couldn't let it go.Fair play to you for obtaining something us mere mortals dream about,Brilliant stuff 😊

[@andybakr]

Hey Jack, it was great to see all of this, thanks for doing all the hard work, editing and sharing it all. I know it’s sad 😢but you have the Pantara coming so this will bring its own challenges and build new experiences and friends. Thousands will be watching you , so be prepared 😅

[@aldostefanini1392]

Nice Jack. I think you did a better choice now getting the Pantera. 308 is plentiful but the Pantera is a much more special car. Can't wait to see the Pantera. Good luck 👍🏽 greetings from South Africa

[@davidiglesiasgomez7616]

Sad days for some of us too. I “meet you” the day you won the bidding in your sofa. Regards from Germany.

[@Thomas-lz3wh]

Awesome video, you did it! Bring more of this classic number 27 with a fun (maybe more gentle) but Italian(?) project car - it’s what built this channel into something magical with you, the human magic amongst the steel. Pantera would be Epic!

[@ChishanFipz]

This great saga is what brought me to your channel - the fact you got in there and got your hands dirty trying to fix that crazy fault was really enthralling stuff. You have a Rover now so that guarantees future spannering.

[@lukemallory7832]

"Man sells Ferrari. Buys Rover..." - what a headline that would have been back in the day!

[@timbullough3513]

It shouldn't rust in Texas ... assuming its not on the coast. I will keep my eyes out in DFW for it.

[@theapplepaul]

Courage, tenacity and passion. A fitting end for a long journey. Glad you will replace it with something else special. The 308 and 328 are my vote for the most beautiful Ferraris ever. Thank you for saving and restoring this one.

[@dadcars]

Gone but not forgotten! Maybe in a few years you can have a holiday to the states and make a video with the new owner. I’m very excited about a Pantera though! That has to be your next big purchase 😎

[@gavinmvagusta7769]

Had my '78 GTB, full Euro spec, dry sump, RHD, red/tan on 16 inch wheels for 17 years and no plans to ever sell it! Your video made the idea of selling mine even more distant. regards Gavin, New Zealand.

[@liamtownshend7726]

FairPlay man , when I sell my cars it’s horrible they look so goood driving away but when I own them I pick holes in them ! Been brilliant series on that car .. I joined the channel when it arrived … can’t wait to see the pantera!

[@RogerNewsham]

I've just had a similar experience to you. After watching your video review of the Maserati Coupe (4200) and Jayem's review, I bought one. I could never afford a Ferrari but could access the Ferrari experience with that engine. Number 27 had prepared me for the slow Cambiocorsa gearbox and unresolved handling but the soundtrack was worth it, it could seat four and the dog was happy in it... then I got offered double the price I paid for it at auction... Everyone of my friends immediately said 'take the money'. BUT in my heart, it was my Italian GT, with a Ferrari derived V8. In the end, I took the money to fund another project and decided to buy a luxury run around... so, in the vein of your Rover75, I went for a x350 V6 XJ, which I bought for silly money, until, perhaps, another day.

[@boydsargeant7496]

Has been a great series! Best of luck with the new purchase!

[@azagrial]

One of my favorite car series ever in youtube. Thank you.

[@handjive7321]

Big thanks for showing the work you've been doing to get your 308 properly running. It will probably stay a dream to do the same for most of us viewers. What I would love to see next: you building/reviewing your RC cars which cameo in your video's. You must be an RC guy too. Let us see your shelf queens up close!!! I've got an original RC10, Rough Rider and Super Champ and loads of other vintage beauties. Love the look of those old cars.

[@sebastiend.5335]

What an epic journey. The saga continues! Greetings from the Netherlands

[@rickdorsey1696]

You did a great job with it. It sounded really good on the last start up.

[@1Z50railtourinfo]

Was great to see the Influenzo for real at the Cotswold Barn meet up in August! Will be sadly missed on your channel :(

[@polygamous1]

I can understand your emotions Jack, the influenza is was part of your life/channel you will always have soft spot for it in your heart mate, but you still have your best driver's car to take out on a spin whenever you feel nostalgic, the Lotus will always be there a blast on twisting country lanes and you be happy you never sold the Lotus, wish you great success with your future project Jack

[@jonathangalloway6796]

Make sure you have first refusal if he ever sells it. It's been a major part of your channel and the success that you've worked hard for!! 👏 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@Number27]

No plans to sell the Lotus.. never say never but can’t see it going anywhere any time soon!

[@domtoni4567]

Ciao Giacomo, I understand how you feel. I am here in the US, came for a University reunion which I booked months ago. About 6 wks ago, I decided it was time to get rid of my parents furniture I have had in storage for 18,5 years. It took me that long to decide to sell it. Yet the memories of the furniture are still there, and I hope that the people who buy my stuff will be as happy as Emilio will be with the Influenzo.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

Wow! Bye old Ferrari buddy! It’s been a great journey, with some real highs and lows - and congratulations on the finished article - it’s stunning! You’ve introduced us to some real characters during your Influenzo journey - most notably the marvellous Iain Tyrell, whose own KZbin channel is essential viewing. Looking forward to seeing what you buy next!

[@dantheman7357]

Hello Jack, and Congrats to Emilio as he is going to love that Ferrari. The sound, and the appearance of it is wonderful. You looked good in it too Jack, it suited you. See you on the next video.

[@andrewfraser7614]

Been there a few times and the feeling sucks! But… I bet that car’s made you a better mechanic and that has a real value. Keep on moving forward. You have my Oily Salute.

[@213davidhunter]

Really enjoyed watching this car Mr. 27, we will all miss the Inflenzo. I do look forward to the next chapter however!

[@paulrowley71]

Wow. End of an era. 😢. Thanks for all the great vids Jack. Especially the carb balancing ones! 😂 looking forward to the next project.

[@SuperLuckyCat7]

Been following You since the first Pyjama-pants days. One of my joys during the Pandemics 😊 Sad to see the Influenzo go. But hey; You've got a Pantera comin' 🤩 Good development of Yr channel, way to go 🏆👍

[@francescorochira773]

Wow, Jack, a really sad day. I loved every video of that Influenzo. Good luck with your next project and the De Tomaso Pantera will make an interesting and different change. Bravo

[@Tinker2006]

Well done on the sale, and on the future next car - looking forward to seeing it and following the videos when it arrives

[@judih.8754]

Well with the closeness of your home to the others, your neighbors are going to love hearing a Pantera! I will make the 308 seem like a Rolls! Best of luck finding the right car Jack.

[@nigel.w]

A sad day. Must say, I am strangely feeling a bit emotional as I write this. But as one chapter ends another begins. Looking forward to a Pantera joining you soon. And may The Influenzo have a safe journey, and live a long and good life in Texas. Maybe one day you'll get to visit and drive it on the type of roads you think it is best suited to.

[@rhodaborrocks-dy3fb]

Number 27 and Jay Emm…both my go-to guys for all things car. Cheers fellas👌🏽

[@DouweBuruma]

Thank you Jack, I discovered your channel through the Ferrari, I am looking forward to see more interesting car’s on your channel.

[@anders6155]

I will so miss the InfluEnzo😢 and honestly, also your your struggles with it😊 your positive attitude is so inspiring 🎉

[@gazzafloss]

Sad day for me, I was really fond of the "Influenzo". Looking forward to the next project Jack, as we know you are.

[@aloneinanearthship4010]

I could not have parted with that car. I started watching this cannel because of the 308 and it continued to hold my attention throughout the process. Looking back I can imagine being drawn to this channel by a Pantera as well, but I will miss the 308 videos.

[@andrewstubbings5628]

Ah, well done you did a fabulous job sorting it, look forward to seeing the Pantera!