Following in the footsteps of the Dino 206 GT, Ferrari’s introduction of the Dino 246 GT in March of 1969 brought about more power and refinement. The model was divisible into three different production series (designated L, M, and E respectively); the L-Series examples bore the closest resemblance to their forbearers and are easily distinguished by their center-lock “knock-off” wheels, front quarter bumpers extending into the grill openings, external truck-lid release, lights for the rear license plate mounted in the rear bumpers, and headrests mounted on the rear bulkhead. While total Dino 246 GT production amounted to 3,761 cars, only 357 L-Series examples were built, representing less than 10% of total production.

Chassis no. 01004 was completed by the factory in July 1970, falling late in L-Series production. Built to European specifications and originally finished in Celeste Metallizzato (106-A-16) over a Nero vinyl interior with Panno Blu cloth inserts, it was originally delivered to an official Ferrari dealership in Prato, Italy. Its first owner was Marco Paoletti, a resident of nearby Florence. Paoletti would keep the car only briefly as the car was sold later that year to a Mr. Henrikus of Saarbrücken, Germany, who kept the car until 1978. It would remain in Germany for the vast majority of its life, passing through the hands of five German owners in total, and at some point undergoing a color change from the original Celeste to red.

In 2015, the Dino was subject to a full, concours-level restoration by the marque experts at Modena Motorsport of Langenfeld, Germany. Stripped to bare metal, the car was repainted in its original Celeste Metallizzato and the interior was retrimmed in its original colors to match. Mechanically, the engine, gearbox, suspension, and braking systems were fully overhauled, and the car was fitted with new wiring throughout. Lasting two years from start to finish, the restoration is documented by extensive photographs and invoices.

Following the completion of its restoration, in 2017 the Dino was purchased by its most recent previous owner, who imported the car to the US and drove the car approximately 500 kilometers in his six years of ownership. With him, the car received oil and filter changes at regular intervals and other repairs were performed as necessary, all accounted for on accompanying invoices dated from 2018 to 2022. In his ownership, the car was granted Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming its original colors and that it retains its original chassis, engine, and gearbox. Acquired by the consignor in 2023, the car has been well-kept in its current collection, accumulating less than 100 kilometers since.

L-Series Dinos have always been sought after given their limited production and similarities to their predecessors. Representing the 246 Dino GT at its most pure, these cars are wonderful to drive and beautiful to behold. This particular example’s restoration presents very well and is further bolstered by its Classiche certification, and would make a standout addition to any collection.