1973 Ferrari Dino GTS – SOLD

From the Collection of a Discriminating Collector

An Appreciating Classic – One of 1,274 Examples Produced

Absolutely Brilliant Cosmetic Restoration – Originally Configured Dino GTS
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HISTORY

Named for Enzo Ferrari’s son, Alfredino, who died in 1956 at the age of 24 as the result of muscular dystrophy, the Dino was, fittingly, a ‘Baby’ Ferrari that was dimensionally smaller and more nimble than any other street Ferrari. Its mid-placed engine was a Ferrari first for a street car, and the engine itself is a gem: a lovely quad cam V6 that reflected the lessons learned from producing V6s for Dino race cars like the 206 SP. The styling for the car was done by Pininfarina, and remains to many one of the most beautiful and exotic Ferrari’s of the period. Certainly the view from the driver’s seat over the two prominently curved fenders is one of the most evocative road going driver’s seat views. In fact, the car has been labeled “One of the Most Beautiful Ferrari’s of all Time” by multiple publications including: Forbes, Gear Patrol, CNBC, Motor Trend and others.

CONDITION

This particular car represents a very an example that has been through a comprehensive, no expense spared cosmetic restoration. As a U.S. market example, it is beautifully presented and retains factory correct components and configuration. When the car received a bare metal re-spray and cosmetic restoration, approximately 10 years ago, it was finished in a striking bright red with a lovely tan interior. The restoration is photo documented and represents a complete restoration of a very original example. Current mileage shows 84,548 and is stated as correct although the cars age qualifies it as Total Mileage Unknown (TMU) due to it being 25+ years of age. Since the restoration, the Dino has traveled fewer than 1,000 miles.

For the past 6+ years, the Ferrari has been in a dry region in Northern California in a climate controlled facility as part of an exclusive collection of vehicles. We are representing the collection as a result of the owner’s medical realities and desire to liquidate his collection of vehicles. The Dino was purchased from the caregiver who managed the comprehensive restoration and has a history of being in California for many years.

The car is in absolutely beautiful cosmetic condition, certainly meeting show quality standards for local and regional gatherings. The body is extremely straight with excellent panel fit and operation. The door bottoms, rockers, splash areas, and the remainder of the body are exceptional the undercarriage remains in original condition. As a long time California car, the Dino shows absolutely no indication of rust or even the patina seen on cars that have “lived” in humid or inclement weather regions.

The paintwork was done to very high standards and is brilliant. It is totally free from significant defects with high gloss paint and lovely brightwork. It has the appearance of a fresh restoration as a result of being properly stored and used minimally. The rubber trim is in excellent shape, as are the lights and glass. The top is a nice original complete with fasteners but not restored to the quality of the body, interior and rear trunk. The wheels are nice originals and sit on older Michelin XWX tires. The car is devoid of Ferrari badging with the exception of an added “prancing horse” on the left rear of the Dino.

The interior is correct and in exceptional condition throughout. The seat upholstery and dashboard both appear to have been re-done in factory materials and are free from any defects that detract from the beauty of the Dino’s interior. The carpets are in lovely condition and appear new and logo floor mats cover the front sides. The instruments and controls are in excellent condition, as is the center console, all of which appear to be original. The steering wheel has been upgraded to a signed Nardi wheel and is fitted with a “Dino” yellow center horn button.

The engine compartment, trunk, and front compartment are all very clean and correct in appearance. The engine is correctly restored in appearance and is virtually spotless. The factory air-box remains in place with correct semi-gloss finish and decals. The front compartment (“Frunk”) is in excellent shape with correct plastic liner, fuse covers, and original spare that includes a Ferrari logo cover that could be installed. The spare wears an XWX tire. The windscreen washer bag is present and intact. The trunk has correct type carpet in excellent condition and the car comes with tool roll with tools, jack bag with jack, and an aftermarket repair manual. In both the front compartment and the trunk, the plastics are in exceptionally nice condition.

The car runs and drives very well, and benefited from a recent minor tune. The motor is responsive, powerful, and, of course, emits and intoxicating exhaust note. The gearbox functions well with good synchromesh gears once the car is warmed up.

Characteristically, the car can occasionally slip out of first gear on heavy acceleration but, when driven easily this is not an issues and may well be a function of improper linkage adjustment. The steering is tight, as is the chassis, giving the car a nice coherent feel. The brakes are effective and linear in operation.

While the Dino starts, runs and drives very well, a recent independent inspection reveals the need for some relatively minor updating to bring the car into a level that corresponds with the exceptional condition of the body and interior. To ensure safety we recommend changing the older factory proper Michelin tires with a new set, replacement of fuel lines and coolant hoses, a valve cover gasket and replacement of a few suspension bushings. Considering the rapid appreciation of Ferrari Dino’s and the anticipated upward trend, the investment to bring the car to a higher level would be relatively nominal.

This is a unique opportunity to acquire a Dino GTS at a very competitive price and may be especially attractive to a buyer who has contacts that are able to address the minor mechanical issues. It is a truly striking, desirable, limited production Dino GTS that is complete with factory tools, jack and other factory items and remains in its original configuration.