FERRARI DINO 246 GTS

The Ferrari Dino was born from the need for a production-based engine for Ferrari’s new Formula 2 car. Styled by Pininfarina, the Dino was named in memory of Enzo Ferrari’s son, Alfredino Ferrari, who passed away at the age of 24 whilst working on the engine that would feature in the model.

The first iteration of the model was the 206 GT which featured a 2.0-litre V6 engine but in 1969 this was replaced by the 246 GT, which featured an uprated 2.4-litre unit. The 246 GT was split into three model series: the L-Series, the M-Series and the E-Series. Compared to previous series, the E-Series benefitted from a continual stream of model developments and changes, the most important being a redesigned gearbox.

In 1972 a targa-top version of the 246 GT was released to satisfy the growing demand for such a car, particularly in the United States. All 246 GT Spyders were E-Series cars and thus benefitted from the improved gearbox as well as other model advancements.

The 246 GTS proved to be incredibly popular and 1,282 Spyders were produced in total. However, only 235 of those were UK supplied, right-hand drive examples, making them the rarest version.

Chassis 04434 is one of the 235 UK supplied, right-hand drive cars and it was delivered to Maranello Concessionaires in July 1972. It was finished in the traditional Ferrari colour of Rosso Chiaro over a black interior and featured the factory optional extra of power-operated windows.

The car was subsequently exported to Australia where it remained from the mid-1970s until 1988 when it was brought back to the UK. In recent years, the car has been well-maintained by noted classic car specialists and has been used sparingly.

It boasts full matching number status including its chassis, body, engine and gearbox and the car presents very well throughout. It comes complete with a dedicated history file, handbook and Battaini jack.

An incredibly well-priced example that can be used and enjoyed as it is but would also make the perfect candidate with which to carry out a concours-standard restoration.