As Ferrari’s first production car to boast a V-6 engine and rear-mid engine placement, it can be argued that the Dino was the most important Ferrari ever produced to never sport a Ferrari badge (save for the prancing horse on its data tag). Nevertheless, there’s no doubt that this little Ferrari was near and dear to Enzo’s heart, as it was in part a tribute to his late son, Alfredo, or “Dino,” as he was known to his family. Educated as an engineer and with a passion for racing, Dino suggested to his father that Ferrari should consider utilizing V-6 engines in their racing cars. Sadly, Dino never lived to see his idea come to fruition, but there is no doubt that he would have been proud of the 206 and 246 Dinos, as well as their 206 S and SP prototype forbearers.

The 206 Dino of 1968 and 1969 only saw the production of 153 units, and the Dino finally came into its own with the 246 GT and open-top GTS variants. These cars offered a 2.4-liter V-6 rather than a 2.0-liter engine and were sold worldwide, while most 206 Dinos remained within Italy. It was a huge success for Ferrari, and enthusiasts adored the car’s driving dynamics and overall charisma.

Produced in February 1973, this E-series 246 GT Dino was originally delivered to the United States and was originally finished in Rosso Bordeaux (20-R-351) over a Beige (VM 3218) leather interior. According to documentation supplied with the car, it was originally purchased by its first owner, Thomas D. O’Brien, of Little Rock, Arkansas, through William Harrah’s Modern Classic Motors in Reno, Nevada. It was then purchased by Richard Ghilotti, of San Rafael, California, in 1976 and sold to Gary Robinson, of Bishop, California, in 1988. It has remained on the U.S. West Coast ever since.

A recent recipient of a full restoration, the car presents beautifully in quintessential Ferrari red over a beige interior with Daytona-style seats and black contrasting inserts. The odometer currently shows 76,950 miles, which are believed to be original. The car is offered with a set of manuals, jack, and tool kit. This Dino also has an extensive file that is said to chronicle a large portion of its life, containing service and restoration receipts, along with numerous photographs of its most recent restoration.

Many consider the Dino to be one of Ferrari’s greatest cars, not only for its looks but also for the wonderful driving experience it provides. The Dino helped Ferrari realize that rear-mid-engined cars were here to stay, and it spawned a wonderful series of cars that continues through today as Ferrari’s most popular line of sports cars. Beautifully restored, this Dino GT truly needs nothing and is ready to be enjoyed as Dino intended.