Robin Master’s red Ferrari is a 308 GTS model (1975-1985). Throughout the series there were three 308 GTS models. In the first episode, it was a 1978 308 GTS.

 

During the second and third seasons, it was a 1980 308 GTSi. For the remaining seasons, there was a 1984 308 GTSi Quattrovalvole and a green '84 308 GTSi QV.

 

The Ferrari in the TV series Magnum P.I. had to be specially modified for the extremely tall Tom Selleck. The upholstery of the seats has been removed so that he could sit more comfortably. The seats were turned back as far as possible in order to increase the amount of legroom.

 

But even with these changes, the audience could still see that Tom Selleck was actually too tall for this car. His head was literally out of the roof. Accordingly, one could only very rarely see Tom Selleck driving with the Ferrari’s roof closed.

 

Originally they had asked Porsche if they would make the car for the Magnum series. They wanted to have a Porsche with an extra-large sunroof for aerial photography. However, Porsche strictly refused to make any specific changes to their production models.

 

The film crew took advantage of the many Ferraris used throughout the series. One was showed during action scenes and another one for the scenes in which only the Ferrari was featured.

 

All Ferraris driven by private investigator Magnum in the series were auctioned off in 1988, after the end of the series. One of the actors, Larry Manetti, who played Magnum friend, Rick Wright, bought one of the early Ferraris and still has it today. Today the Ferrari from Magnum is a cult car like no other.

 

You may find all episodes of Magnum P.I. here.