Ferrari 308 GTB - Budweiser

The Paul Newman Ferrari 308 GTB, on the track in your hand

Few names combine the glamour of Hollywood with a passion for competition as well as Paul Newman. Avant Slot recreates with its reference AV51409 the Ferrari 308 GTB that the actor and amateur driver raced under the colours of Budweiser in the ProCelebrity Ramsey Racing series, one of the most popular exhibition series of the time, where celebrities from the entertainment and sports worlds shared the asphalt in real competition conditions.

Technical features

• Inline motor at 21,000 rpm: the motor is arranged inline with the rear axle (longitudinal), which lowers the centre of gravity and improves cornering stability.
• Gear ratio: 9-tooth pinion and 27-tooth crown gear.
• Calibrated axles as standard to ensure concentricity and smooth running from the very first moment.
• Aluminium rear wheels of 15.5 × 9 mm, offering greater rigidity and mounting precision compared to conventional plastic ones.
• Cushioned guide, for more consistent contact with the track and more stable driving on uneven surfaces.
• Neodymium magnet, with high magnetic efficiency for optimised grip without resorting to large magnets.
• Extra mirror kit included in the box, an exclusive detail from Avant Slot to protect the integrity of the model in case of an accident.

Scale and level of detail

Avant Slot is one of the leading manufacturers of 1:32 scale resin cars in the sector. The body of the Ferrari 308 GTB faithfully reproduces the proportions of the real car, including the Budweiser / ProCelebrity Ramsey Racing livery with which Newman competed. The level of finish is designed for both those who want to display the model in a showcase and those who prefer to run it regularly on their track.

On-track behaviour

The inline configuration favours a lower and more centralised mass distribution, resulting in greater stability in fast corners and a more predictable response under braking. The 9-tooth pinion with 27-tooth crown gear offers a balanced gear ratio, suitable for both home tracks and club circuits with long straights. The cushioned guide is a particularly valued plus on tracks with imperfect rail joints, as it keeps the braids in constant contact with the conductive rail.

Ideal for…

• Collectors attracted by the figure of Paul Newman and his role as a racing driver.
• Slot enthusiasts looking for a car ready to run with superior quality components straight from the box.
• Club racers wanting a competitive Ferrari 308 without the need for prior preparation.
• Fans of motorsport from the 70s-80s and American ProCelebrity series.

Points to consider

As this is a resin body model with high-fidelity decoration, we recommend handling it carefully to avoid scuffs on the more exposed panels. The additional mirror set included in the box is a gesture from Avant Slot designed precisely to ensure that the model's appearance is not compromised after any inevitable contact on the track. Regarding spare parts, Avant Slot has a wide catalogue of replacement parts, ensuring the long-term maintainability of the car.

Paul Newman and the ProCelebrity: the story behind the livery

Paul Newman was not just a casual driver: he obtained his racing licence at over 50 years old and went on to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where in 1979 his team crossed the finish line in second place in class. Before establishing himself in high-level motorsport, Newman participated in various American celebrity races, including the ProCelebrity Ramsey Racing, where cars like the Ferrari 308 GTB served as a stage for entertainment figures to demonstrate that their passion for motorsport was much more than just a pose. The Budweiser decoration was part of the usual sponsorships of the time, associating popular brands with the image of recognisable celebrities both on and off the circuits. Over time, Newman became one of the most admired examples of what a talented, disciplined enthusiast with access to the right machinery can achieve, a story that Avant Slot captures with this replica of the 308 GTB in its most recognisable colours from those years.

Frequently asked questions

What type of motor does this Avant Slot Ferrari 308 GTB have?

It has an inline motor, meaning it is arranged in a longitudinal position relative to the rear axle. This allows for a lower centre of gravity and improves its cornering stability compared to other configurations.

Is it compatible with Scalextric or Ninco tracks?

Compatibility depends on the guide mounted on the car. The cushioned guide from Avant Slot is designed for universal track, making it compatible with Scalextric and Ninco tracks. For sport track (Scaleauto, Slot.it), it may be necessary to change the guide.

Does the extra mirror set come assembled or does it need to be installed?

It comes as an additional kit inside the box. It is not pre-assembled: it is a replacement for the original mirrors if they are damaged during use.

Do the aluminium rear wheels improve performance compared to plastic ones?

Yes. Aluminium wheels offer greater rigidity, better concentricity, and a more precise mounting surface for the tyres, resulting in smoother and more uniform running, especially at high speeds.

Can this car be used in club races or is it just for collection?

It is perfectly prepared for competition. Its inline configuration, calibrated axles, neodymium magnet, and cushioned guide make it a valid car for club sessions without the need for additional preparation.

What gear ratio does it come with as standard?

The car comes with a 9-tooth pinion and a 27-tooth crown gear, a balanced ratio for most home and club circuits.

The Avant Slot Ferrari 308 GTB Budweiser (ref. AV51409) is a 1:32 scale slot car capturing Paul Newman's iconic ProCelebrity Ramsey Racing livery. Featuring an inline motor at 21,000 rpm, 9/27 gear ratio, calibrated axles, 15.5×9mm aluminium rear wheels, cushioned guide and neodymium magnet, this model delivers both collector appeal and genuine on-track performance. A must-have for fans of 1970s–80s American celebrity racing, Paul Newman motorsport history, and Avant Slot's renowned resin bodywork craftsmanship.