The Ferrari Tipo 049 is a 2,927 cc, 90° naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 1981 and 1984 as the powerplant for Ferrari’s 308 GTB/GTS Quattrovalvole (QV) series. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and Weber-Marelli IAW 026 electronic fuel injection, delivering 220 kW (300 PS) at 7,700 rpm and 326 Nm of torque. This engine replaced the two-valve 308 GTB with a high-revving quad-cam architecture, marking a significant leap in performance and efficiency.
Fitted exclusively to the 308 QV models, the Tipo 049 was engineered to enhance both road usability and track responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and oxygen sensor feedback control, allowing it to meet early Euro 1 standards in certain markets. The engine’s aluminum block and heads contribute to a dry weight of 185 kg, maintaining the 308’s renowned weight distribution and handling balance.
One documented technical evolution is the transition from mechanical to electronic fuel injection in 1983, detailed in Ferrari Engineering Bulletin EB-049-002. This update improved throttle response and cold-start reliability while reducing hydrocarbon emissions. The switch from Bosch K-Jetronic to Marelli IAW 026 also introduced digital diagnostics, a novelty for Ferrari road cars at the time.
Production years 1981–1982 meet pre-regulatory standards; 1983–1984 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/308QV).
The Ferrari Tipo 049 is a 2,927 cc 90° naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine engineered for mid-engine sports cars (1981–1984). It combines a quad-cam 32-valve head design with Marelli electronic fuel injection to deliver high-revving performance and improved emissions control. Designed to meet early Euro standards, it balances traditional Ferrari V8 character with modern fuel management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,927 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Leaded, 98 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 220 kW (300 PS) @ 7,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 326 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber-Marelli IAW 026 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulatory (1981–1982); Euro 1 (1983–1984) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, single-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (interval: 45,000 km or 3 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 mineral (API SG) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated 90° V8 delivers high-RPM responsiveness and linear power delivery, but requires adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using SAE 10W-60 mineral oil to maintain camshaft and bearing longevity. The belt-driven timing system is critical and must be replaced every 45,000 km or 3 years per SIB-MECH-049; failure results in interference engine damage. Fuel quality is essential—leaded petrol or additive-treated unleaded is required to prevent valve seat recession. The Marelli IAW 026 system requires periodic sensor calibration and oxygen sensor replacement to maintain emissions compliance and drivability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-60 mineral oil (API SG) specification (Ferrari SIB-MECH-049). Modern synthetics not recommended due to seal compatibility.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1983–1984 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/308QV). Pre-1983 models are pre-regulatory.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified with 98 RON fuel and factory exhaust (Ferrari PT-1983).
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P0490, P0494, P0495, EB-049-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/308QV)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification
The Ferrari Tipo 049 was used across Ferrari's mid-engine platforms with transverse mounting and shared design principles with Lancia for compact performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-upgraded exhaust manifolds in the 308 GTS QV and revised intake plenums in the 308 GTB QV-and from 1983 the updated 308 QV adopted the Marelli IAW 026 fuel injection system, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Lancia's 037 Rally to leverage Ferrari's V8 architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the rear face of the engine block near the bellhousing (Ferrari TIS P0498). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 308 QV series). Tipo 049 engines have black cam covers with "Quattrovalvole" script and a central air intake. Critical differentiation from earlier 308 models: Tipo 049 uses Marelli IAW 026 ECU with digital diagnostics, while two-valve engines use Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical injection. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1983 models are not compatible with post-1983 fuel-injected variants due to accessory drive revisions (Ferrari SIB-ENG-049).
The Tipo 049's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with delayed maintenance. Internal Ferrari service data from 1986 reported timing-related engine damage in 20% of high-mileage examples, while Italian MOT (CT) records indicate a rising trend in fuel injection faults for poorly maintained units. Extended oil intervals and infrequent warm-up cycles exacerbate valvetrain and belt stress, making fluid integrity and thermal management critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1981-1984) and Italian Ministry of Transport CT inspection records (1985-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-049.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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