Overview<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>Variants<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>Models In-Depth<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>Buyer’s Guide<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>Videos<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>Images<\/span><\/a> \/ <\/span>More Updates<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n The Dino 206 GT is a beautifully balanced machine, with a superb chassis and a wonderfully responsive engine.<\/p>\n <p>Road & Track (1968)<\/p><\/small><\/p>\n Ferrari had mid-engine layouts in their racing cars, but to date all of its road cars were front-engined V12s. The legend goes that Enzo Ferrari was concerned that his buyers did not have the skills to manage a mid-engined sports car. Designers presented Enzo with sketches of a small, sexy mid-engine sports car and Enzo relented and agreed to build the car, but only if it had a less-powerful engine. Enzo chose a V-6 engine design that his son Alfredo (Dino, for short) had helped develop for racing with lead engineer Vittorio Jano. The “Dino” name was a tribute from Enzo to his late son, who had died in 1956 from effects of muscular dystrophy. Widely regarded as one of the best-handling cars of its era, the Ferrari Dino\u2019s mid-engine layout proved a radical leap in road car design when it was released in 1968. Three series of the Dino 246 GT were built, with differences in wheels, windshield wiper coverage, and engine ventilation. Dino 246 production numbered 2,295 GTs and 1,274 GTSs, for a total production run of 3,569. For completeness, we also included the non-Dino models that came afterwards and still fit into that genre and era.<\/span><\/p>\n The Ferrari Dino series, encompassing the Dino 206 GT, 246 GT, and 246 GTS, remains one of the most cherished and collectible groups of classic sports cars. Known for their timeless design, exhilarating performance, and unique place in Ferrari\u2019s history, these mid-engine masterpieces are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors. However, as with any classic car, careful inspection and attention to details are essential to ensure a sound investment and enjoyable ownership experience. Here\u2019s what to look for when considering a Dino, common issues, and insights into its desirability and investment potential.<\/span><\/p>\n The Dino\u2019s V6 engine, while robust when properly maintained, requires thorough examination.<\/span><\/p>\n Timing Chain and Valve Adjustment:<\/span><\/strong> The timing chain should be inspected for wear, as a worn chain can lead to poor engine performance and expensive repairs. Valve adjustments are critical for optimal operation and should be checked during a pre-purchase inspection.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Cooling System:<\/span><\/strong> The Dino\u2019s cooling system is prone to overheating, especially in older cars with neglected radiators and cooling hoses. Look for evidence of recent radiator refurbishments or upgrades, and inspect for coolant leaks.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Oil Leaks<\/span><\/strong>: Common areas for leaks include the valve covers and sump. While some seepage is normal for older cars, excessive oil leaks can indicate poor maintenance.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Carburetors:<\/span><\/strong> Early Dinos (especially the 206 GT) use Weber carburetors, which require regular tuning to maintain peak performance. Inspect for smooth idle and proper response during acceleration.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The Dino\u2019s five-speed manual transmission is a joy to use when well-maintained but can exhibit issues over time.<\/span><\/p>\n Synchro Wear:<\/span><\/strong> Pay special attention to second gear, which is prone to synchro wear. Difficulty engaging gears or grinding during shifts may indicate transmission problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Clutch Health:<\/span><\/strong> The clutch should engage smoothly without slipping or shuddering. A worn clutch will need replacement, which can be labor-intensive and costly<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The Dino\u2019s suspension system provides precise handling but is subject to wear with age.<\/span><\/p>\n Bushings and Ball Joints:<\/span><\/strong> Worn suspension bushings or ball joints can result in clunking noises and imprecise handling. Inspect for play in the suspension components and ensure they\u2019ve been regularly serviced.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Shock Absorbers<\/span><\/strong>: Leaking or worn shocks can compromise the car\u2019s ride and handling. Upgraded dampers are a common improvement on older Dinos.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Rust is one of the most significant concerns when buying a Dino, particularly on steel-bodied 246 GT and GTS models.<\/span><\/p>\n Rust-Prone Areas<\/span><\/strong>: Inspect the wheel arches, door sills, lower panels, and undercarriage for signs of rust. Early 206 GTs, with their aluminum bodies, are less prone to rust but may have issues with panel corrosion or cracking.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Body Repairs:<\/span><\/strong> Look for evidence of past body repairs, such as uneven panel gaps or mismatched paint. Poor-quality restorations can hide underlying structural issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Originality:<\/span><\/strong> Many collectors value originality, so verify the presence of correct Dino badging and other period-specific details.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The Dino\u2019s electrical system can be a source of headaches, particularly in poorly maintained cars.<\/span><\/p>\n Fuse Box and Wiring<\/span><\/strong>: Inspect the fuse box for signs of overheating or corrosion, and ensure all wiring is intact and functional.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Lights and Gauges:<\/span><\/strong> Test all lights, switches, and gauges to ensure proper operation. Malfunctioning components may require expensive repairs or replacements<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The Dino\u2019s interior, while simple and elegant, is prone to wear over time.<\/span><\/p>\n Leather and Upholstery:<\/span><\/strong> Check for cracks, fading, or shrinking on the leather seats and dashboard. Restoring the interior to original specifications can be expensive.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Carpets and Trim:<\/span><\/strong> Inspect the carpets for water damage or excessive wear, particularly in the footwells.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Targa Top (246 GTS):<\/span><\/strong> On GTS models, inspect the targa top for fitment and water sealing to prevent leaks.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The Dino has grown significantly in value and desirability over the years, driven by its stunning design, connection to Ferrari\u2019s history, and engaging driving experience.<\/span><\/p>\n Rarity:<\/span><\/strong> With only 152 examples produced, the aluminum-bodied 206 GT is the rarest Dino and highly sought after by collectors.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Value:<\/span><\/strong> Early 206 GTs command a premium due to their exclusivity and lightweight construction.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Versatility:<\/span><\/strong> The 246 GT is praised for its balance of performance, reliability, and design. Steel-bodied models are more durable, making them popular for regular driving.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Investment Growth:<\/span><\/strong> Values for the 246 GT have risen steadily, especially for well-preserved, numbers-matching examples.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Open-Top Appeal:<\/span><\/strong> The 246 GTS is particularly desirable in markets where convertible sports cars are in demand. Its targa-top design offers the thrill of open-air motoring without sacrificing rigidity.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Market Trends:<\/span><\/strong> The 246 GTS often commands a slight premium over the 246 GT due to its versatility and rarity.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Service History: Verify records of regular maintenance, including valve adjustments, timing chain replacements, and carburetor tuning.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Rust Inspection: Carefully inspect for rust on steel-bodied models and ensure aluminum-bodied 206 GTs are free from corrosion or cracking.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Mechanical Condition: Test the engine, transmission, and suspension during a thorough test drive. Address any signs of leaks, worn components, or difficulty shifting.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Originality: Confirm that the car retains its original engine, chassis, and interior components, as authenticity significantly affects value.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pre-Purchase Inspection: Always have a professional pre-purchase inspection (PPI) conducted by a Dino specialist to identify potential issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n The Ferrari Dino series represents an alluring blend of beauty, performance, and heritage, making it a highly desirable addition to any collection. While maintenance and upkeep require attention to detail, a well-maintained Dino can provide an unmatched driving experience and strong long-term investment potential. Whether you\u2019re drawn to the rarity of the 206 GT, the versatility of the 246 GT, or the open-air excitement of the 246 GTS, the Dino series offers a timeless connection to Ferrari\u2019s storied history.<\/span><\/p>\n The Dino 246 GT is a true Ferrari in every sense of the word. It’s fast, agile, and beautifully built.<\/p>\n <p>Car and Driver (1972)<\/p><\/small><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Ferrari Dino Ultimate Guide to the Dino The Dino, with its captivating blend of Pininfarina design and exhilarating V6 performance, marked Ferrari’s foray into a more accessible market, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts with its distinctive charm and undeniable pedigree. Overview \/ Variants \/ Models In-Depth \/ Buyer’s Guide \/ Videos \/ Images \/ More Updates The Dino 206 GT is a beautifully balanced machine, with a superb chassis and a wonderfully responsive engine. <p>Road & Track (1968)<\/p> Ferrari Dino […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":866746,"parent":337936,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-866745","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n![](\"https:\/\/www.supercars.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/1966-Ferrari-Dino-206-GT-001-1536.jpg\")
<\/p>\nFerrari Dino Model Variants<\/h2>\n
Ferrari Dino Buyer\u2019s Guide<\/h2>\n
Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing a Dino 206 GT, 246 GT & 246 GTS<\/h3>\n
Key Areas to Inspect and Common Issues<\/h3>\n
1. Engine and Mechanical Health<\/h4>\n
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2. Transmission and Clutch<\/h4>\n
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3. Suspension and Steering<\/h4>\n
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4. Bodywork and Rust<\/h4>\n
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5. Electrical Systems<\/h4>\n
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6. Interior Condition<\/h4>\n
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Desirability and Future Investment Potential<\/h3>\n
Dino 206 GT<\/h4>\n
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Dino 246 GT<\/h4>\n
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Dino 246 GTS<\/h4>\n
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Summary of Key Inspection Points<\/h3>\n
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Conclusion<\/h3>\n