1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

Ferrari’s beloved Dino continues to hold a special place for Maranello enthusiasts, noteworthy for its competition-pedigreed engine, sensuous styling, and some groundbreaking historical footnotes. The model named for Enzo Ferrari’s son was not only powered by his namesake racing V-6 motor used to great success in the 206 sports racing prototypes, but it was the first in a long line of mid-engine production cars, a tradition that lives to this day in the 458 Italia.

The production Dino GT featuring the second-generation 2.4-liter V-6 was built in three discreet series between 1969 and 1974, with the final E-series commencing in mid-1971. In Ferrari’s typical fashion, each evolution featured improvements over the prior series, with the E-series cars featuring small-diameter leather-trimmed MOMO steering wheels, and an assortment of interior updates.

In 1972, an open-top spider version dubbed the GTS became available, breathing new life into Pininfarina’s handsome design. According to the Dino Register, just 1,274 examples of the 246 GTS were built before the model was discontinued in 1974, and they remain the preferred Dino for many Ferrari enthusiasts.

Chassis no. 06286 beautifully exemplifies Scaglietti’s scintillating open Dino coachwork, which looks particularly striking in black with contrasting black and red Daytona seats. Factory optioned with air-conditioning and power windows, the GTS was retailed by Chic Vandagriff’s famed Hollywood Sports Cars and purchased new in 1974 by Dr. Eli Mishuck, a physicist and Ferrari enthusiast then residing in Arcadia, California.

Dr. Mishuck retained possession of the Dino for 36 years, and during this long period of devoted stewardship the car was routinely serviced by some of Southern California’s most renowned Ferrari experts including Bobileff Motor Cars. In 2009, the original owner commissioned a major freshening that included rebuilding significant portions of the suspension and transaxle.

The GTS was then purchased by Colin Comer, who shepherded the Dino through a cosmetic restoration, executed to fastidious standards. Since coming into the current owner’s care, 06286 has continued to benefit from regular exercise and routine maintenance.

Impressively documented with receipts dating back to the mid-1970s, this longtime Southern California-based Dino is further accompanied by a tool kit and owner’s handbooks. Ideal for local show outings and spirited weekend drives, this handsomely presented 246 GTS offers an exceptionally well-rounded package for serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.