The necessity for a production-oriented engine for the emerging Formula 2 led to the debut of the ‘junior’ Ferrari, the Dino 206GT, unveiled at the 1967 Turin Motor Show. Crafted as a compact, visually striking coupe with aluminum bodywork and Pininfarina styling, the Dino was a tribute to Enzo Ferrari’s late son, Alfredino Ferrari. Positioned as the inaugural model for a distinct yet interconnected marque, the Dino housed a 2.0-liter, four-cam V6 engine, transmitting power through a five-speed transaxle integrated into the unit.
In late 1969, the Dino 206 made way for the 2.4-liter iteration, the 246 GT, featuring a longer wheelbase. Although the body transitioned to steel and the cylinder block to cast iron from aluminum, the augmented power of the larger engine, producing 195bhp at 7,600rpm, effectively compensated for the increased weight.
The convertible counterpart, the 246 GTS, with a Targa-top, joined the lineup in 1972. While not matching the straight-line speed of its larger V12 counterparts, the agile Dino excelled in navigating winding roads, showcasing its capability to outpace nearly anything in its path.
Source: Bonhams Cars
