1970 FERRARI DINO 246 GT - L-SERIES

This Ferrari Dino 246 GT is a restored example of the rare and coveted interim ‘L-series’ model that bridges the gap between the early Dino 206 GT and the main series Dino 246 GT. It is powered by a 2.4-litre V6 producing around 195hp, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 18,480 km.

A development of the 2.0-litre 206 GT, the 2.4-litre L-series had a 60mm longer wheelbase, but retained many of the features of the previous Dino, including knock-off wheel nuts, headrests mounted on the firewall, a passenger foot rest, ventilation controls on the centre console, an external bonnet lock, and a few of the aluminium opening panels.

Completed at the factory in March 1970, this Dino left Maranello finished in Argento Auteuil Metallizzato, with Nero ‘Skai’ vinyl interior trim. It was first registered in Italy, supplied by dealer Nocentini Automobili S.p.A. in Florence, to the first owner in Lucca. At some point in the car’s life, there was confusion over its identity, and the car was believed to be Dino 206 GT chassis 00354 - so some of the car’s early history is likely to be on record, but attributed to the wrong serial number.

Offered for sale in the UK in the mid-2000s, it was purchased by the previous owner in March 2008, who is a major collector with a vast and impressive assembly of classic icons. He subsequently commissioned DK Engineering to carry out a cosmetic restoration, with instructions to completely refurbish the bodywork – taking it back to bare metal – as well as strip and service the mechanicals where necessary, carry out a major engine service, and refresh the interior trim.

The restoration was completed in 2010, and today the car’s exterior hue is closer to the period colour of Grigio Notte, and the cabin is upholstered in a mix of black leather, Panno Grigio towel cloth, and black vinyl. While the car’s true identity as chassis 00694 was only discovered relatively recently, a thorough inspection was then carried out by Ferrari historians, and the car was corrected to its original serial number.

Today, the bodywork presents in superb order, and the Grigio paint finish is also in excellent condition. The car has covered around 1,000 km in the 10 years since the completion of the restoration, and now it shows with just some very light microblistering in the paintwork, which is barely noticeable. There is a wonderful glossy shine all around the panels, which is further accented by the brilliantly bright chromework, which still looks fresh.

It is equipped with the correct European specification clear indicator lenses at the front, while the ‘Cavallino’ badge on the rear is a nod to the fact that early Dinos were all given some Ferrari branding by Maranello Concessionaires in period. The car rides on the correct 14-inch magnesium alloy Cromodora wheels, with three-eared centre-lock nuts, while its four ANSA exhaust tail pipes peek out from below the rear bumper.

Stepping inside, the quality of the re-trim is evident in the superb pair of seats, finished in Nero leather with Panno Grigio towel cloth centre panels - the latter an option that was only available on the 206 GT and L-series 246 GT, and which gives this particular car’s cabin a charming period-correct flourish. There is also a pair of leather centre panels stored in the boot, that could be swapped back into place should the next owner prefer. Nero ‘Skai’ vinyl is present around the bulkhead panel, and for both headrests, as well as on the door caps. The lower door panels are finished in leather trim, while the perforated headlining is in very good order.

Mechanically, this Dino 246 GT is reported to be in great shape, and is fresh from a major service and overhaul carried out in 2020. The engine oil and filter were changed, a new fuel filter and air filter were fitted, the spark plugs were renewed, and a new Magnetti Morelli condenser and ignition contact points were installed. The carburettors and throttle linkage were synchronised, and a new steering rack was fitted along with new mount bushes. CV joints were renewed on the left-hand driveshaft, the cooling fan relay was rewired, and the coolant reservoir was repaired. Finally, its chassis number - having been certified by Ferrari historians - was corrected.

There are no original handbooks accompanying the car, though such items are commonly traded, so are available to buy should the next owner wish to acquire them. There is a good history file with the car, along with a record of the restoration, as previewed in the photo gallery below. Official documentation is on file from Ferrari providing a dating letter for chassis 00694 along with its original specification, and there are numerous restoration and maintenance invoices that provide a clear picture as to the car’s condition and recent history.

This Ferrari Dino 246 GT ‘L-series’ is a well-sorted and solid example of a very limited early model, of which it is understood just 357 were built. As is often the case with cars that were built in small numbers, this particular series of Dino is now sought after by collectors, who wisely see it as the model that combines many of the elegant features of the 206 GT with the increased performance of the 2.4-litre model. Lauded in period as a superb driver’s car, the Dino 246 GT is a sporting classic that never fails to attract positive attention, and is rightly regarded today as one of Pininfarina’s most beautiful and well-balanced designs.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently covered by a finance agreement, but the remaining balance will be cleared before ownership is transferred to the buyer.

Car Overview

  • 18,480 km (indicated)
  • manual
  • LHD
  • Grigio
  • Black / Grey cloth inserts
  • 2.4L V6


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #02096
  • managed Sale
  • Chorleywood, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

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