Ferrari Dino 246 GT turns 50

By: Unique Cars magazine

Date: 19.12.2019

Celebrating half a century for one of the stellar models from the stable of Il Cavallino Rampante

Arguably the most recognisable Ferrari of all is the Dino 246 GT, which evolved from the 206 GT but featured a bigger V6 engine and a 60mm longer wheelbase. A correspondingly longer body was made but the design was virtually identical to the 206. The Dino 246 GT was launched in 1969 at the Turin Motorshow and was a commercial success for Ferrari with three series produced during its lifetime, which ceased in 1974.

Apart from the increase in engine capacity from 2 litres to 2.4 litres, the engine block material was changed from aluminium to cast iron and a subtle increase in the diameter of the paired twin exhaust pipes was another noticeable change.

During the production lifespan of the 246 GT there were only minor changes to smaller items leading to the three series of cars referred to as "L", "M" and "E". This is apart from the different market versions, and the targa-roof 246 GTS model.

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Around the time of the Dino 246 GT launch, Enzo Ferrari was reaching agreement with Gianni Agnelli of Fiat to take over the production of Ferrari road cars. This secured the long-term future of the production car business and freed Enzo Ferrari, by now over 70 years of age, from the day-to- day responsibilities giving him more time to indulge in his passion, racing.

The Dino 246 GT starred in on the silver and smaller screens, with Tony Curtis driving one in The Persuaders, alongside Roger Moore in an Aston Martin.

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