1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS by Scaglietti

In the realm of iconic Italian sports cars, the name Ferrari shines like a bright star. The mere mention of a Ferrari evokes images of speed, passion, and beauty. However, within the hallowed halls of Ferrari’s history, there is a model that holds a special place, not just because of its performance but due to the story it tells. The Ferrari Dino 246 GTS is not just a car; it’s a piece of history, a symbol of innovation, and a classic that continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

The Ferrari Dino 246 GTS was born from the legacy of Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari’s beloved son. Alfredo was a brilliant engineer, and it was his dream to create a V6 engine that could power both road cars and race cars. Tragically, Alfredo passed away at a young age, and to honour his memory, the engine he envisioned became a reality. The V6 engine found its place in the Dino 206 GT, the first Ferrari road car to carry the Dino name.

The Dino 206 GT marked a significant shift in Ferrari’s design philosophy. In 1967, when it made its debut at the Turin Salon, it was a breath of fresh air. At a time when Ferrari was renowned for its powerful front-engined V12 grand tourers, the Dino 206 GT stood out. The car featured a mid-mounted engine layout, a V6 configuration, and a beautiful, compact design that set it apart from its stablemates.

The Dino 206 GT’s innovative design wasn’t just for show; it delivered on the road as well. With a 2.0-liter all-alloy Dino V6 engine, the car was not just a looker; it was an exceptional performer. The engine begged to be revved and produced exhilarating power for its size. It married pin-sharp handling with sublime driving dynamics, making it a true driver’s car. Enthusiasts marvelled at the 206 GT’s ability to carve corners with precision and provide a thrilling driving experience.

While the Dino 206 GT was a remarkable car, it was not without its shortcomings. Some felt that the engine lacked the grunt to fully exploit the car’s incredible chassis. Ferrari listened to feedback, and in 1969, the Dino 246 GT was introduced. This was the second chapter in the Dino’s story, and it marked a moment of perfection.

Aldo Brovarone and Leonardo Fioravanti’s striking Scaglietti-built coachwork remained a hallmark of the Dino, but this time, steel took precedence over alloy. The most significant change lay beneath the bodywork,a 2.4-liter version of the Dino V6 engine. This upgrade finally gave the Dino the power it needed. The 246 GT was the embodiment of the Dino’s true potential, and it found its way into the hearts of automotive enthusiasts around the world.

The Dino 246 GT became a significant success for Ferrari. From its introduction in 1969 to the end of production in 1974, approximately 3,761 open and closed examples of the 246 GT were built. It was a testament to the Dino’s enduring appeal and the validation of its innovative design and exhilarating performance.

The Dino 246 GT journey didn’t stop at its introduction. Like any iconic model, it underwent refinement through different series. For instance, it transitioned from the early L-series to the M-series in the summer of 1970. This transition brought changes such as windshield wipers and smart five-bolt Cromodora alloy wheels, enhancing both style and functionality.

The E-series update, which started in July 1971, marked a significant milestone. It introduced tweaks in gearing and fuelling, addressing some mechanical concerns, but most significantly, it offered a new variant,the GTS, or Gran Turismo Spider. The introduction of the GTS expanded the Dino’s appeal to open-top enthusiasts. The GTS embodied all the characteristics of the Dino 246 GT while allowing drivers to enjoy the wind in their hair and the sound of the V6 engine to its fullest.

The Dino 246 GTS was a limited-production marvel. Only 1,274 of these special cars were ever made. This exclusivity made them highly coveted among collectors and Ferrari aficionados. The Dino 246 GTS was a symbol of Ferrari’s innovation, a tribute to Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, and an embodiment of the joy of driving.

The Dino 246 GTS, born out of love, vision, and innovation, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. It represents a pivotal point in Ferrari’s history, a moment when they dared to break from tradition and create something new, something remarkable. It’s a car that tells a story,a story of passion, performance, and the pursuit of perfection. The Dino 246 GTS is a testament to the enduring legacy of the prancing horse, and it will continue to captivate generations of car enthusiasts.**