by What Is Dino Ferrari?
Dino Ferrari isn’t just a car—it’s a legacy born from emotion, innovation, and tribute. Named after Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, the son of Enzo Ferrari, this sub-brand represents Ferrari’s first step into mid-engine sports cars. Though not initially badged as Ferraris, the Dino 206 GT and Dino 246 GT are now iconic. These cars introduced a V6 engine layout and were aimed at challenging competitors like the Porsche 911. Today, many ask, “Is the Dino a real Ferrari?” The answer lies in its story, engineering, and lasting impact on automotive history.
Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari: The Man Behind the Name
Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari’s beloved son, was a gifted engineer with a passion for innovation. Despite battling muscular dystrophy, Dino helped design Ferrari’s first V6 engine. He passed away in 1956 at just 24, but his vision lived on. To honor him, Enzo launched the Dino marque—a tribute to his son’s legacy. Dino wasn’t just a name on a car; he was the heart behind Ferrari’s shift toward mid-engine performance.
Why the Dino Ferrari Marque Was Created
Ferrari created the Dino brand to enter a market it had never touched—affordable, high-performance sports cars. These vehicles were:
- Powered by V6 engines instead of V12s
- Designed to rival the Porsche 911
- Marketed as a “junior Ferrari” without the iconic badge
The idea was revolutionary. Ferrari didn’t want to dilute its premium image, so Dino cars were sold under a separate name—yet still crafted with Ferrari DNA.
The Evolution of the Dino Ferrari Engine
Dino’s influence lives under every hood. The original Dino V6 engine was first designed for racing and later adapted for road use. Over time, this engine evolved and powered several models.
Dino V6 Engine Highlights
| Generation | Engine Type | Displacement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen | V6 – Aluminium | 2.0L | Used in Dino 206 GT |
| 2nd Gen | V6 – Cast Iron | 2.4L | Found in Dino 246 GT & GTS |
| Racing | V6 – Tasman Spec | 2.4L+ | High output, used in F2/Tasman cars |
This engine later appeared in Fiat Dino models and paved the way for Ferrari’s modern V6 hybrid platforms like the 296 GTB.
Dino Ferrari Models Breakdown: Design, Specs & Performance
Here’s a quick look at the most famous Dino models, their specs, and key features:
Dino Model Comparison Table
| Model | Engine | Power | Body Material | Production Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dino 206 GT | 2.0L V6 | 180 hp | Aluminum | 1967–1969 |
| Dino 246 GT | 2.4L V6 | 195 hp | Steel | 1969–1974 |
| Dino 246 GTS | 2.4L V6 | 195 hp | Steel (Targa) | 1972–1974 |
| Dino 308 GT4 | 3.0L V8 | 255 hp | Steel | 1973–1980 |
Dino 246 Tasmania & Racing Legacy
The Dino 246 Tasmania was Ferrari’s answer to the Tasman Series—a racing league in Australia and New Zealand. It was a single-seater based on the F2 car and used a special V6 engine with high rev limits and Lucas fuel injection.
Notable Features:
- Lightweight aluminum body
- 2400+ cc engine displacement
- Dominated the Tasman Series in the late ’60s
Although short-lived, it showcased Dino’s power in motorsport and added racing credibility to the name.
Design Aesthetics: Pininfarina, Scaglietti & Styling Legacy
Dino Ferrari Cars models were a blend of performance and beauty. Designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, they featured:
- Flowing curves and low-profile silhouettes
- Compact wheelbases for agility
- Hidden fuel filler caps and flush-fit elements
This design influenced future Autodromo Enzo E Dino Ferrari models, including the 308 GTB and modern V6 hybrids.
Dino in Popular Culture & Collectibility
Alfredo Dino Ferrari cars have appeared in:
- The 2023 film Ferrari
- Classic TV shows and car collector episodes
- High-end auctions fetching up to $800,000
Popular long-tail search phrases:
- Dino Ferrari auction results
- Is Dino Ferrari collectible?
- Cheapest vintage Ferrari with real racing DNA
Myths & Misconceptions About Dino Ferrari
Let’s clear up some confusion:
- “It’s not a real Ferrari” → Technically true at launch, but it was built by Dino Ferrari For Sale and later accepted as one.
- “They’re slow” → Dino cars were lightweight and competitive, especially the 246 GT.
- “They’re not valuable” → Prices have skyrocketed in recent years.
Modern Impact: How Dino Influenced Today’s Ferraris
The mid-engine layout, V6 efficiency, and compact performance DNA of the Dino line directly inspired:
- Ferrari 308 & 328 series
- Hybrid V6 cars like the Ferrari 296 GTB
- Ferrari’s modern shift to more accessible, agile sports cars
The Dino Ferrari Death wasn’t just a product of its time—it was ahead of it.
Final Verdict: Why Dino Ferrari Still Matters
Dino Ferrari represents passion, loss, and innovation. It marked Ferrari’s bold move into new territory: smaller engines, new layouts, and a tribute to a son whose dreams changed automotive history. Whether you’re a collector, an enthusiast, or just a fan of beautiful cars, Dino stands as a symbol of engineering excellence and emotional legacy.
