The Ferrari Dino: Birth of a Mid-Engine Legend

December 10, 2024November 24, 2024 by Mark Sullivan

The Dawn of a New Era

In the mid-1960s, the automotive world was undergoing a revolution. Formula 1 racing had embraced mid-engine designs, signaling the end of front-engine dominance in motorsports. Yet Ferrari, led by its founder Enzo Ferrari, remained hesitant to bring this configuration to their road cars. Enzo’s concern was simple but profound: he worried that his clientele lacked the skill to safely handle mid-engine vehicles.

A Father’s Tribute

The Dino story is as much about family as it is about engineering. Named after Enzo’s son Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, who died tragically in 1956 from muscular dystrophy, the Dino series represented more than just a new model line. Before his death, the younger Ferrari had worked alongside engineer Vittorio Jano to develop the V-6 engine that would eventually power these cars. This engine proved its worth by securing Ferrari a Formula 1 championship in 1958.

The Birth of the Dino Brand

When Sergio Pininfarina presented Enzo with designs for a sleek, mid-engine sports car, Ferrari finally relented—but with a condition. The car would use a smaller, less powerful engine than Ferrari’s traditional V-12s, making it more manageable for everyday drivers. This decision led to the creation of Dino as a sub-brand, separate from Ferrari’s main line.

The Evolution of the Model Line

Dino 206 GT (1968)

The first production model, the 206 GT, featured:

A 2.0-liter aluminum V-6 producing 180 horsepower
All-aluminum bodywork
Five-speed manual transmission with the iconic Ferrari gate
Limited production run of just 152 units

Dino 246 GT/GTS (1970-1974)

The evolution continued with the 246 series, bringing significant changes:

Enlarged 2.4-liter engine delivering 195 horsepower
Steel bodywork replacing most aluminum components
Introduction of the GTS Targa model in 1972
Total production of 3,569 units (2,295 GTs and 1,274 GTS models)

The Transition: 308 GT/4

By 1974, Ferrari introduced the Bertone-designed 308 GT/4, initially under the Dino brand. This model eventually transitioned to Ferrari badging, marking the end of the Dino sub-brand but establishing the foundation for Ferrari’s future mid-engine V-8 lineup.

The Dino’s Legacy and Market Evolution

Initially positioned as a more accessible model, the Dino faced years of debate over its “true Ferrari” status. Many owners and dealers added Ferrari badges despite the cars originally carrying only Dino branding. Today, these concerns have evaporated, with Dinos commanding six-figure prices and recognition as genuine products of the Enzo era.

Buying Guide

For modern collectors considering a Dino:

Provenance and service history are crucial
GTS models typically command higher prices in the U.S. market, while GT coupes are more valued in Europe
The V-6 engines are relatively reliable and less expensive to maintain than Ferrari V-12s
Body condition is critical due to rust susceptibility
Complete restoration costs often exceed the price of well-maintained examples

Historical Significance

The Dino represents a pivotal moment in Ferrari’s history, marking their first serious venture into mid-engine road cars and establishing a template that continues to influence the company’s V-8 models today, including the modern F8 Tributo. More than just a car, it stands as a testament to innovation, family legacy, and the evolution of Ferrari as a manufacturer.