For Sale at Auction: 1974 Ferrari Dino in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. 07738

The lucrative American market in the 1960s was hungry for sporty and exhilarating open-top sports cars, especially those from Europe. The Germans produced the beloved Porsche 911 Targa and the Mercedes-Benz SL line, while the British were responsible for a variety of Austin-Healey roadsters and the Jaguar E-Type Roadster. Naturally, the Italians were responsible for numerous examples of fantastic open-top sports cars, with one notable exception: Ferrari. Of course, open-top Ferraris were available, but only in limited numbers and on a special request basis.

The winds of change first arrived in 1968 when the Dino marque was unveiled. Initially launched as the 206 GT coupe, the third and final series of production appeared in June 1971, with customers eager for an open-topped Dino waiting until February 1972 for the debut of the 246 GT Spyder. Ferrari now had a car, well-positioned to capture a new market for them. The GT Spyder became a resounding sales success, with clients ordering a remarkable 1,282 GT Spyders in just two and a half years of production, with nearly half being sold in the US market.

A revised and enlarged engine was the most significant of many upgrades from the 206 GT to the 246 GT Spyder, with the V6's displacement increasing from 2.0 to 2.4-liters and a name change to reflect this upgrade. Cars destined for the American market, like the car on offer, produce 175 hp breathing through three Weber 40 DNCF/19 carburetors. The Dino's transmission was revised to complement the upgraded engine. While the driver still shifts through the familiar gated five-speed, each gear features a longer ratio increasing comfort and drivability.

This particular 246 GT Spyder comes from the final year of production and is finished in distinctive Rosso Chiaro over the optional Beige Scuro Connolly leather with black inserts creating an excellent contrast inside and out. The seats are the optional and highly desirable Daytona style, named for those found in the 365 GTB/4. Other noteworthy options for this well-equipped US market car include electric windows, air conditioning, and Autovox radio with an electric antenna.

Research indicates that this GT Spyder was the recipient of a sympathetic restoration approximately ten years ago. During this restoration, chassis no. 07738 received a fresh coat of paint in the original and classic shade of Rosso Chiaro, and the Cromodora Dino script wheels were refinished to the factory standard. The interior received attention as well, with the optional Daytona style 'chairs' receiving new leather. This work was done to a high level, with an eye for authenticity, which is readily apparent today. Following the completion of this restoration, this Dino entered the discerning collection of the consignor, where it has been regularly enjoyed. Comprehensive service invoices are on file from 2016 and 2021. Today, this Dino 246 GT Spyder remains in very much the same condition as when it emerged from its restorative work and, as such, would be an ideal candidate for inclusion in any collector's stable looking for a vintage al fresco Ferrari sports car.