1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS 'Chairs & Flares'

In the world of classic Italian sports cars, few names evoke as much passion and reverence as Ferrari, and few models from that era carry the allure of the Dino 246 GTS, especially the rare and coveted “Chairs & Flares” edition. This variant represents not only one of Ferrari’s most beautifully designed and meticulously engineered automobiles, but also an intriguing chapter in the brand’s history,a time when the marque dared to depart from its V12 tradition and embrace a V6 layout. Though adorned with the Dino name, this car’s Ferrari DNA is unmistakable.

Introduced under Ferrari’s Dino marque, the 246 GTS followed its predecessor, the Dino 206 GT, in 1969. Enzo Ferrari, determined to challenge Porsche’s dominance in the sports car market, tasked his engineers with creating a road car to bear the name of his late son, Dino. It was a move that emphasised a commitment to producing lighter, more agile vehicles with the mid-engine layout that was taking hold in the racing world. The 246 GTS, featuring a 2.4-liter V6 engine with dual overhead cams and a steel body, would become the pinnacle of this vision.

Pininfarina’s masterful design gave the Dino 246 GTS a seductive, curvaceous silhouette, while Scaglietti’s craftsmanship ensured the bodywork was as functional as it was beautiful. The car’s handling was razor-sharp, and its 195 PS (192 bhp) engine allowed for thrilling performance. With a top speed of nearly 150 mph, the Dino was every bit as quick as its contemporaries, yet it retained the refinement expected of a Ferrari.

Among the various iterations of the Dino 246 GTS, the “Chairs & Flares” model stands out as the ultimate expression of this mid-engined marvel. The name refers to the combination of two highly sought-after options: flared fenders and Daytona-style seats. These features were not merely cosmetic, but served to enhance the Dino’s performance and aesthetic appeal.

The flared wheel arches gave the 246 GTS a more aggressive stance, accommodating wider Campagnolo wheels that hinted at its racing heritage. The addition of the Daytona-style seats,borrowed from the flagship Ferrari 365 GTB/4,wrapped drivers and passengers in sumptuous leather and offered increased comfort and support during spirited driving. Fewer than 150 of the 1,274 E Series 246 GTS models were equipped with this desirable package, making the “Chairs & Flares” variant one of the most collectible Ferraris of the era.

While the Dino 246 GTS may not boast the raw power of Ferrari’s larger V12 models, it is often praised for its balanced and responsive handling. The lightweight V6 engine positioned behind the driver and the car’s mid-engine layout provided exceptional weight distribution, resulting in precise cornering and confidence-inspiring control. This, combined with its tactile manual gearbox and sharp steering, has cemented the Dino’s reputation as one of the best-handling Ferraris of all time.

Motoring enthusiasts and journalists alike have long lauded the Dino for its driving dynamics. It feels nimble and alive, delivering a driving experience that connects man and machine in a way that few cars of any era can replicate. The 246 GTS’ relatively compact size and lively V6 make it an ideal companion on winding roads, where its capabilities can be fully enjoyed.

The Ferrari Dino 246 GTS ‘Chairs & Flares’ is a work of art. The design, by Pininfarina’s Leonardo Fioravanti, is pure 1970s Italian flair: flowing lines, seductive curves, and an elegant, yet purposeful stance. The open-top Spyder configuration allows drivers to fully immerse themselves in the sound and sensation of the Dino’s sonorous V6, enhancing the driving experience in a way that only a convertible can.

More than 50 years after its introduction, the Dino 246 GTS continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the world. Its blend of classic Ferrari performance, stunning design, and exclusivity ensures that the Dino remains a highly sought-after model in today’s market. The “Chairs & Flares” edition, in particular, is one of the most desirable, thanks to its rarity and the enhanced presence of its flared fenders and Daytona seats.

The Ferrari Dino 246 GTS ‘Chairs & Flares’ is a rare jewel in the pantheon of classic sports cars. A perfect blend of style, performance, and engineering, it encapsulates everything that makes Ferrari,and the Dino marque,so beloved by enthusiasts.**