Footnotes

• It was the need for a production-based engine for the new Formula 2 single-seater racing series that led to the introduction of a 'junior' Ferrari, the Dino 206GT, at the Turin Motor Show in 1967. Building on experienced gained with its successful limited edition Dino 206S sports-racer of 1966, Ferrari retained the racer's mid-engined layout for the road car but installed the power unit transversely rather than longitudinally. A compact coupe of striking appearance, the Pininfarina-styled Dino - named after Enzo Ferrari's late son Alfredino Ferrari was powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cam V6 driving through an in-unit five-speed transaxle. The motor's 180bhp was good enough to propel the lightweight, aerodynamically-efficient Dino to 142mph.
  
  A 2.4-litre version - the 246GT - replaced the Dino 206 in late 1969. The bigger engine increased power to 195bhp at 7,600rpm and a Targa-top version, the 246GTS, followed in 1972. The nimble Dino was capable of showing almost anything a clean pair of heels over twisty roads, truly a driver's car par excellence.
  
  As the first production mid-engined Ferrari, the Dino V6s are landmark cars. The line they founded would prove to be an immense commercial success for Maranello, production amounting to 2,487 GT coupés and 1,274 GTS spyders by the time the model ceased production in 1974.
  
  This car's early history is not known, although it did undergo a comprehensive body restoration before being imported to Europe from the USA in the late 1980s. Acquired by the present owner in 2005, the Dino was despatched to the Ferrari factory in Maranello for restoration and the all-important certification. Between February and December 2006, the factory restored the engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes and interior trim, the bodywork already having been restored. Upon completion the Classische dossier was produced and presented to the owner – which accompanies the car. It was noted by Ferrari at this time that the car had had a previous engine replacement, and they confirmed it was an original and correct specification unit.
  
  Currently MoT'd to 2011, the car was fully operational during the recent photo-shoot and looked stunning under the Dubai sun. Minimal mileage has been covered since Ferrari's restoration and we feel that the car would benefit from a high-speed run of some distance to clear its throat. There would be no shortage of volunteers.
  
  This Dino, a fine example of one of the most iconic sports cars of the 1970s, is finished in the most desirable classic colour combination of Rosso Corsa (Ferrari racing red) with black leather interior, and has period six-spoke Cromodora alloy wheels.
  

---

Category: Motoring / Motor Cars

---

Auction terms and conditions