In 1969, Ferrari updated their mid-engined 206 Dino with the Dino 246 GT. Following a production run of only 150 206 Dinos, the major update with the Dino 246 GT was of course its larger 2.4-liter engine. The earliest Dino 246 GTs, internally designated as the L-Series, were considered by enthusiasts to be the “bridge” between the 206 and 246 Dinos. As such, these cars retain many desirable features normally associated with the 206 Dinos, while benefitting from the 2.4-liter engine. Additionally, they’re fitted with 206-style seats, dashboard, a deeper passenger footwell with a folding footrest, a Daytona-style steering wheel, and knock-off wheels. Most significantly, L-Series Dino GTs feature handmade lightweight alloy doors and decklids, which sets them apart from the later, heavier, all-steel-bodied M- and E-series Dinos.

Delivered new to through Ferrari’s official Ferrari dealership in Geneva, this particular L-Series 246 Dino GT, which bears chassis number 00690, was originally finished in Rosso Dino (20-R-350) over Nero. By 1974, the car was exported from Le Harve, France to the United States, where it was purchased by George Ider of San Francisco, California. Several documents in the history file chronicle the car’s importation and early service work in California in Ider’s ownership, which include invoices for body repairs to the front end, indicating damage and subsequent repair and paintwork in 1984.

Ider owned the Dino through at least 1984 and further documents on file show that it was in the ownership of Alex Albarian of Glendale, California in 2008. By this time, the car’s interior had been restored with the correct black vinyl upholstery. Albarian commissioned a Southern California-based marque expert to perform a mechanical restoration, which included a rebuild of the suspension, and overhaul of the steering rack and brake. Further work included a cleaning of the carburetors and distributor, which were cleaned and rebuilt as needed.

Two years later, Albarian showed the car at the Cavallino Classic in 2010, winning an FCA Gold award and scoring 92 points. The car was purchased by Tom Shaughnessy in 2010 and subsequently sold to the consignor in 2011. Imported to Canada, the car has been regularly serviced by Ferrari of Ontario during his ownership, and it is accompanied by an owner’s manual, parts book, jack, and tool kit. Importantly, the car still retains both its original engine and gearbox.

L-Series Dinos rank amongst the most desirable 246 Dino’s for their carry-over features from the 206 Dinos and relative rarity to the rest of 246 Dino production. Presented in its original color scheme and having spent the majority of its life in California and FCA Gold award at the Cavallino Classic speaks to its impressive presentation. This would be an excellent Dino to drive and enjoy and would be a welcome addition to any Ferrari collection.