1969 FERRARI DINO 246 GT

The Dino range of sports cars was named in honour of Enzo Ferrari's son, Alfredino, who designed a dual overhead-camshaft V6 engine for both road and racing use before tragically passing away at the age of 24.

The 206GT was the first model to be introduced in 1967, proving that Ferrari could compete with the likes of Porsche by producing a car in the more budget end of the sports car spectrum. The 206 featured a 2.0 litre transverse-mounted V6 engine capable of producing 160bhp at the 8,000rpm redline.

Following production of only 150 206 GTs, the more powerful and refined 246 GT was introduced in March 1969. The model was divisible into three different production series (designated L, M, and E respectively); the L-Series examples bore the closest resemblance to their forbearers and are easily distinguished by their centre-lock "knock-off" wheels, front quarter bumpers extending into the grill openings, external truck-lid release, lights for the rear license plate mounted in the rear bumpers, and headrests mounted on the rear bulkhead. While total Dino 246 GT production amounted to 3,761 cars, only 357 L-Series examples were built, representing less than 10% of total production.

This particularly special example, which we are delighted to offer for sale, left the Maranello factory in 1969 and was exhibited at that year’s International Motor Show Germany (IAA) in Frankfurt. It was delivered to its first owner in West Germany via the Düsseldorf-based dealer Auto Becker on 5 September 1969. Notably, it was the first Dino sold in the country and only the seventh L-Series ever produced by Ferrari.

Built to European left-hand-drive specification, this 246 GT was finished from factory in Rosso Dino – the distinctive ‘orangey-red’ developed initially for Ferrari’s Formula 1 cars and famously used on Tony Curtis’s Dino in The Persuaders.

After time in Germany, France, Canada, and the United States, the car arrived in the UK in 2017 and was soon treated to a complete and meticulous restoration to original ‘concours’ specification.

The 2.4-litre V6 engine was fully stripped, along with its triple Weber 40 DCF carburettors, five-speed gearbox, all-round disc brakes, and front and rear coil-spring, double-wishbone suspension. Every component was painstakingly restored to factory specification, with worn parts refurbished or replaced as required.

The engine was completely rebuilt, fully dyno tested, and run in on a bench prior to installation to ensure perfect performance and reliable starting. Once fitted, it was dyno tested again on a rolling road and tuned, producing the exact stock output of 191 bhp.

The car then received its correct Rosso Dino finish, a process beginning with the period-correct grey primer, followed by a Rosso Corsa undercoat and a final coat of Rosso Dino. The seats have been reupholstered in period-correct black leather with orange towelling inserts, accompanied by a newly built dashboard. Even the engine cam covers have been returned to their original bronze hue, ensuring the car appears exactly as it left the factory in August 1969 – only better.

Following meticulous final assembly and road testing, this exceptional L-Series Dino completed its restoration and was featured in Magneto Magazine Issue 13 (2022). It has also received Classiche Certification from Ferrari, confirming matching-numbers engine, gearbox, and body, as well as its factory-original specification.

Since completion, the car has covered minimal mileage and presents in outstanding condition today. It is supplied with two sets of keys, its Classiche Certification, a copy of the Magneto issue in which it appeared, and a comprehensive history folio documenting the entire restoration, including an extensive portfolio of photographs.

L-Series Dinos have always been highly sought after due to their limited production and close relation to earlier models. Representing the 246 Dino GT at its purest, these cars are both wonderful to drive and beautiful to behold. This example now stands as a concours-quality car, restored with passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to originality. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.