Dino 246 GTS (1974)

The much sought-after Ferrari 246 Dino GT was named after Enzo Ferrari's son Alfredo, who died in 1956, aged just 24. Enzo Ferrari credits his son with the inspiration for a series of successful small and medium capacity V6 racing engines built by Ferrari from 1956, and in turn, the name was given to a new line of mid-engined production Ferrari V6 coupés, which first went on sale in 1969. The Dino 246 GT has proved to be one of the most satisfying and successful automobiles built by Ferrari and paved the way for the emerging generation of mid-engined Ferraris. It is widely regarded as one of the best-handling and most gratifying automobiles of the early 70s, it is one of the most attractive, delicately balanced designs ever produced by the masters at Pininfarina. As a result, Dinos have enjoyed a well-deserved recent surge in popularity.

The GTS version of the 246 Dino arrived at the Geneva Salon in March 1972, it was built on the series III platform and featured a removable targa roof panel that could be stowed behind the seats. The chassis was also modified with reinforced extra bracing along the sides and front of the engine frame. Aside the targa top visibly the GTS could be identified by the lack of rear three-quarter windows, these being replaced by a bank of three vents carved out from each sail panel. Production of both the GT and GTS came to an end in 1974, just 1274 GTSs were built.

This Dino GTS was imported into the UK by Maranello Concessionaires, and their records show it had originally been intended for Dick Lovett before a re-allocation to H.R. Owen. Originally specified in Giallo Fly with the addition of both the extremely rare and highly desirable wider, sand-cast Campagnolo alloy wheels, flared arches and the leather ‘Daytona’ seats. As such this example forms the ultimate roof-off, Dino specification; a "Chairs and Flares" GTS, built as one of just 6 RHD examples of such worldwide.

Its first custodian, Mr Timothy Maltby, would split his time between London in the heart of Belgravia, and East Sussex, retaining the vibrant yellow Dino for a period of two years before selling to a local in the latter, Mr Kemp of Lewes. Each of the owners from new are documented in the accompanying history file; just shy of two years later, in 1977, the Dino was sold to gentleman in Beaconsfield. In October 1983 the Dino was purchased by Mr William of Camberley and just 10 days after purchase he submitted a colour change notification to the DVLA of the car now refinished in white.

04.04.1974 - Mr Timothy Maltby of London

19.02.1976 – Mr Kemp of East Sussex

01.12.1977 – Mr Granaski of Beaconsfield

22.07.1981 – Mr Regan of Sidcup

20.10.1983 - Mr William of Camberley

17.09.1984 – Mr Gawthorpe of Orpington

The GTS would remain white until 1989 at which point its latest owner, Mr Gawthorpe of Orpington entrusted the car into the care of Foskers Ferrari for a comprehensive restoration and retrim.

Testament to their workmanship and diligence of the restoration, Foskers would purchase the car in late 2007, selling to the car’s eighth owner in 2008. In the decade after the restoration, the car would cover a mere 2,000 miles.

31.07.2007 – Fosker Sales ltd

01.02.2008 – Mr Learmonth of Cuckfield

02.01.2014 – Mr & Mrs Allen

In 2014 the car was purchased by noted collector Mr & Mrs Allen of Weybridge who had specifically sought a ‘Chairs & Flares’ example. With vast knowledge and experience attributed to the ownership numerous special Ferraris and their restoration to international concours standard, the Dino GTS was no different. A stickler for details, after purchase the car was sent to Barkaways for mechanical works as well as an interior retrim by O’Rourkes of Guildford.

In 2014 the car was sent to Barkaways for mechanical preparation works ahead of a European road trip. With a no expense spared approach these works saw the replacement of all fuel and water lines, braking system overhaul including hoses as well as cosmetic works to further improve the standing of the car. Following these improvement works which totalled nearly £30,000, the car was inspected for Ferrari’s red book Classiche certification which was granted in December 2014.

A remarkable example, this Dino GTS presents superbly as 1 of just 6 right hand drive ‘Chairs and Flares’ examples built. Accompanied by two history binders documenting the continued care of sequential diligent owners including a wealth of invoices for recent works, this GTS is further offered with its Ferrari red book Classiche, leather document wallet and books and is available to view at our showrooms outside London immediately.

• 1 of just 6 RHD 'Chairs & Flares' GTS built
• Supplied new by H.R. Owen in April 1974
• Supplied new in Giallo Fly over Nero Vinyl Daytona seats
• Comprehensively restored by marque specialist in 2020
• Accompanied by original leather pouch, original warranty card
• Known and documented ownership from new
• Ferrari Red Book Classiche Certification
• Available to view at our showrooms outside London immediately