1971 Dino 246 GT Coupe Scaglietti – Auto Zürich Classic Car Show 2021

In 1971, the Dino 246 GT offered a mid-engined driving experience under the Ferrari umbrella, yet it did not carry a Ferrari badge. Its compact proportions and V6 engine distinguished it from the brand’s traditional front-engined V12 models. The 246 GT became one of the most influential Italian sports cars of its era.

Technical Details

The 1971 Dino 246 GT was powered by a 2,418 cc (2.4-litre) 65-degree V6 engine, mounted longitudinally in a mid-rear position. The engine featured dual overhead camshafts per bank and was fed by triple Weber carburetors. Output was rated at approximately 195 horsepower (DIN), depending on market specification.

Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox, integrated into a transaxle assembly. The chassis used a steel tubular frame, with body panels made primarily of steel (earlier 206 GT models had aluminum bodywork). Suspension was fully independent, with double wishbones, coil springs, and telescopic dampers at both front and rear. Disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels.

The mid-engine layout contributed to balanced weight distribution and responsive handling characteristics. Compared with larger Ferrari V12 models of the time, the Dino 246 GT offered a more compact and agile driving experience.

• Manufacturer: Ferrari (sold under the Dino sub-brand)
• Model Name: Dino 246 GT
• Coachbuilder: Carrozzeria Scaglietti
• Year of Manufacturing: 1969–1974

Design

The Dino 246 GT was styled by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti. Its design emphasized flowing curves, compact dimensions, and a low, wide stance. The front featured covered headlamps (in early European versions) and a subtle air intake below the bumper line. The pronounced rear haunches visually highlighted the mid-engine placement.

The coupé’s roofline was gently curved, flowing into a short rear deck with a louvered engine cover. Chrome details were minimal, reinforcing the car’s clean surfaces. Five-spoke alloy wheels became a defining visual element.

Inside, the cockpit was focused and driver-oriented. The dashboard featured a prominent central tachometer and auxiliary gauges angled toward the driver. Leather-trimmed bucket seats and a gated metal gear selector were standard features. The cabin was compact but purposeful, emphasizing engagement rather than luxury.

Historical Significance

The Dino 246 GT occupies a distinct position in Ferrari’s history. It was named in honor of Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, the son of Enzo Ferrari, who had been involved in the early development of Ferrari V6 engines. The Dino brand was created to differentiate V6-powered models from Ferrari’s traditional V12 cars.

Introduced as a successor to the 206 GT, the 246 GT featured increased displacement and steel body construction, making it more practical for series production. By 1971, the 246 GT had evolved through different series updates (L, M, and E series), incorporating mechanical and detail refinements.

The model played a significant role in establishing mid-engine architecture for road-going sports cars under the Ferrari umbrella. It also helped broaden the company’s customer base during a period of expanding production.

Quirks and Pop Culture

Although built by Ferrari, the Dino 246 GT did not initially wear Ferrari badging, instead carrying “Dino” scripts. This distinction has become part of its identity among collectors.

The 246 GT gained visibility in international markets during the early 1970s and has since become a recognized symbol of Italian sports car design. Its proportions and driving characteristics influenced later Ferrari mid-engine models. Today, it is regarded as one of the most balanced classic sports cars of its period.

Display and preservation:

The vehicle was exhibited at the Auto Zürich Classic Car Show in 2021. As part of the broader Auto Zürich Car Show, the Classic section has grown into a key attraction for lovers of historic vehicles in Switzerland. In 2021, the event took place at Messe Zürich and featured a dedicated hall showcasing a curated selection of vintage automobiles, spanning from pre-war icons to youngtimers. The atmosphere combined elegance with accessibility, allowing visitors to admire rare collector cars alongside enthusiast vehicles. Special displays highlighted Swiss automotive heritage and featured club presentations and dealer exhibits.

Conclusion

The 1971 Dino 246 GT Coupé represents a key chapter in Ferrari’s evolution toward mid-engine road cars. Equipped with a 2.4-litre V6, fully independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes, it combined compact dimensions with precise handling. Styled by Pininfarina and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti under the Ferrari umbrella, the Dino 246 GT remains an enduring example of early 1970s Italian sports car engineering and design.