A Thing for Cars

The fabulous V6 engine designed by Alfredo Ferrari was named after the Commendatore’s son who suddenly passed away in July 1956. The Dino make, itself, was created by Ferrari in 1965.

The same year Fiat wished to merge with Ferrari as Ford were trying to buy the name. The giant of Turin was also looking for an engine to equip a high standard sports car in preparation. Similarly, Ferrari needed a partner for the type certification of the V6 engine within the framework of the new Formula II. Both companies finally signed an agreement early March 1965.

Fiat Dino 1971 image source

The 1986 cc engine was adapted to a series car. It is fed by 3 Weber carburettors placed in the center of the V. Designed by Ferrari and manufactured by Fiat, the engine will be used by both makes and also on the Lancia Stratos. Pininfarina unveils a “Berlinette” prototype in October 1965 with the engine placed in central rear position.

Fiat Dino Spider 1967 image source

The famous designer also presented the 206 GT with the V6 in transverse position in 1967. It will be the Ferrari Dino. In 1966 the Fiat Dino Spider is proposed. The engine is now at the front and surprisingly without a correct rear suspension. The V6 engine reaches 158 HP (118kW) and exceeds the symbolic speed of 200 km/h.

Fiat Dino Coupé 1967 image source

The style of the car was unanimously accepted. The front part is extremely elegant and the general line appears very characteristic with the undulation of the wings. The boot lid is in aluminium. The coupé appears in 1967 with 4 real seats and the body is now designed by Bertone.

Rear view of the Fiat Dino Coupe image source

It is quite homogeneous, full of distinction and discretion. The balance between the masses and roof is a work of delicacy. The inside of the car is very clear. The so wise design does not actually reflect the character of the car though. Comfortable and very well equipped, the Dino receives a superb wood dashboard aligning not less than 7 meters.

Front view of the Fiat Dino coupe image source

Pininfarina also created a coupé with 2 seats only, and in 1967 a new version called “Berlinetta” that was an extrapolation from the spider. In 1969, the Fiat Dino receives a new suspension for the rear, the engine is now the 2419 cc and no longer in aluminium but cast iron,  but the car thus became heavier. 180 HP are now available and speed is 225 km/h. The spider will be manufactured until 1970.

The elegant hatchback line of the Fiat Dino coupé by Bertone image source

In 1972, the oil crisis puts an end to this sports car.  With 2398 units, the coupé 2400 was far less produced than the coupé 2000  which reached 3670 units. As for the spider 2400 only 420 units were built until 1974. Needless to say that this model really is sought after.

Fiat Dino Coupé of 1968 image source

With an exceptional engine created by Ferrari and a body designed by the greatest Italian names, Pininfarina and Bertone, the Fiat Dino was a superb and gifted car. The Fiat network was also an asset and yet the car was a commercial flop. The Dino was also too expensive. Although Fiat became a major  shareholder of Ferrari, the firm never renewed the experience of such a delicate cocktail.

Fiat Dino spider image source

The engine needs careful adjustment and constant maintenance. Spare parts are difficult to find today, this makes the Dino very exclusive and rare. The car was never sold in the United States. It remains one of the beauties of the ’60s and ’70s.