Description
History:
The Dino 308 GT4 was the first Ferrari to be fitted with an eight-cylinder engine as standard; previously Ferrari had only used six and twelve-cylinder engines. The robust, high-revving engine was used in various other Ferraris for many years afterwards and a total of around 15, 000 units were produced. A special feature of the Dino 308 GT 4 is that, like its predecessor, the Dino 246, it bears the brand name Dino and not the usual Ferrari logo. Enzo Ferrari ran the small Ferrari models under the name Dino for several years in memory of his deceased son Alfredo ‘Dino’ Ferrari. It was not until May 1976 that the brand name Dino was replaced by Ferrari on the 308 GT 4 model. A total of 2826 units of the Dino 308 GT 4 were built in the six years of production, 1332 units of the pure Dino 308 GT 4 and 1446 units of the Ferrari Dino 308 GT 4. This example of the 2nd series was delivered by the Ferrari dealer Ruf from Oftringen on 3 March 1978. A few years later, the Dino moved to a garage owner and Ferrari enthusiast in central Switzerland, where it was lovingly cared for and regularly driven by its owner until the summer of 2024. From June to August 2024, the Dino was renovated in Goodtimer's restoration workshop with great attention to detail and prepared for the veteran's test in all technical respects. Its mileage is 75, 600 kilometres, service and timing belt are of course freshly done.
Bodywork and paintwork:
The original paint has been professionally renovated in a 3-phase process and shows a shine of new car quality. Some traces of stone chips are visible up close and have been very neatly repaired. The body of this accident-free vehicle is absolutely undamaged and unwelded.
Interior:
The Connolly leather was refurbished in the Goodtimer leather workshop and the entire interior was sterilised. You can feel a slight patina in a very well-kept cockpit.
Engine and mechanics:
Constant mechanical care pays off with cars like this. The test bench values are impeccable, all wearing parts have been replaced and the timing belt has also been replaced. At just under 76, 000 kilometres, the engine is in the middle of its life, at which point it is usually due for an overhaul.
Chassis:
The chassis and brake system are in good condition, the frame parts are unwelded and preserved. The four brake discs are applied vigorously and show optimum deceleration values on the test bench. Only the handbrake requires a firm pull on the lever.
Driving experience:
Even the entry-level Ferrari is a real Ferrari. The great thing about the Dino GT4 is the space behind the seats. Moving passengers can sit comfortably, and luggage or sports bags can be stowed quickly and easily without having to open the boot. The V8 engine with its four twin Weber carburettors has a wonderful bite and catapults the Sport Tourer to 100 km/ h in just over 6 seconds. A figure that was phenomenal at the time and still demonstrates sports car class today.
Recommendation:
With just 1, 446 Series 2 Dinos produced, this exotic car is one of the collectible classics. Ferrari is myth, Dino is history. And both together form an automotive-historical foundation for collectors.
These sports cars are still available in Europe for less than 100, 000 francs. Examples like this one already far exceed this value in the USA. This will also be the case in Europe.
