The Ferrari Dino 246 GT recently for sale on eBay combines timeless sculpted styling by noted coachbuilder Pininfarina with numerous technical firsts for Ferrari.
The V-6 and the lack of Ferrari badging were scorned by some brand loyalists who insisted this was not a “real” Ferrari. Nevertheless, it justifiably appears on numerous lists of the most beautiful cars ever made.
Dino’s V-6 Dream
The Dino is named for the son of company founder Enzo Ferrari, who first envisioned the car’s V-6 engine. It was the first model to emerge from Ferrari’s Maranello facility with a mid-engine layout and a six-cylinder engine instead of a V-8 or V-12.
The decision to go with a V-6 was rooted in the elder Ferrari’s passion for racing rather than making a more frugal Ferrari. Enzo needed to build a certain number of six-cylinder street cars to meet road-racing homologation requirements.
Period reviewers raved about the 246 GT’s handling and the intoxicating soundtrack produced by the high-tech V-6 located inches behind the driver. The smaller engine and lack of a prancing pony on the hood irritated some Ferrari enthusiasts. But the Dino was widely praised by the automotive press, who lavished praise on its striking good looks, sharp handling, and lively performance.
Better Than Its Predecessor
This impressive 1970 Dino, from the first year of 246 GT production, benefits from evolutionary upgrades made to the 206 GT introduced two years earlier. This sports car looks almost identical to its predecessor while retaining its mid-engine layout for balanced handling.
The list of improvements to the 246 GT include:
- A larger, more potent 2.4-liter dual overhead cam V-6 engine pumping out 195 horsepower
- Three Weber carburetors
- A two-inch-longer wheelbase
An Early Example
Showing just 55,444 kilometers or 34,451 miles, this Euro-spec Dino was one of the first 246 GT models to roll out of the Ferrari factory in Maranello. As such, it is all the more unique as a transition car. It has the lightweight aluminum doors, hood, and engine cover from the earlier 206 GT. Steel components replaced the aluminum in later models.
This example also has a lighter tube frame and bumpers than later models. The European spec doesn’t have the power-sapping emissions equipment like cars from the United States.
Following a complete restoration by a Ferrari-authorized shop in the 2000s, this very low mileage and numbers-matching Dino has been driven sparingly since. The sale includes documentation of regular service performed over the ensuing years. It also includes the original factory tool kit, manuals, and a signed copy of the Dino Compendium Book.
Everything inside and out is in impeccable condition, making this one of the nicest examples you’ll likely find.
Rising Value
When the Dino 246 GT was new, its sub-$15,000 price tag made it competitive with a Porsche 911. Times have changed. Dino values have soared above its German competitors.
Few automotive investments are as solid as cars built by the skilled craftspeople of Maranello—whether it wears a Ferrari badge or not. Dino values have been increasing particularly fast. This one represents an excellent opportunity to own a gorgeous exotic with exhilarating performance.
