Imagine owning a piece of Ferrari history for a mere $129,500—sounds too good to be true, right? Well, there's a small catch. This 1972 Ferrari 246GT Dino being offered by Gullwing Motors of New York is not just a classic; it’s a fire-ravaged wreck. Described as “completely burnt,” the car looks like a ghost of its former self with gaping holes and rust eating away almost every inch of it.
The State of Disrepair
The steel bodywork of the Dino has been thoroughly scorched, leaving holes in the hood, tail, and rear quarter panel. The fire spared nothing except what was resilient enough to withstand extreme heat. The interior is entirely destroyed, but surprisingly, the 2.4-liter V-6 engine mostly survived, although anything that isn't metal has melted beyond recognition. This once-beautiful Ferrari was initially finished in Marron Colorado with tan leather, featuring power windows and Cromodora wheels, now reduced to a heap of molten metal.
Gullwing Motors optimistically claims that “This deal is on fire!” indeed, the Dino market is hotter than ever. But can this charred relic ever be restored to its former glory? It's a gamble, but one that might be worth it.
A Worthwhile Investment?
For those willing to take the plunge into what will undoubtedly be an intensive and expensive restoration project, the rewards could be significant. In 2022, a 1974 Dino set an all-time auction record at $858,000. The market consistently shows rising interest in these cars, and Dinos are now even outselling Daytonas.
Past owners like Wayne Carini have praised the Dino for its driving experience, mentioning its perfect balance and the overall pleasure of driving a car that fits like a glove. “From how well the car fit me to the perfect balance front to rear, as well as the car’s overall balance of power, handling, braking, and shifting from the five-speed manual transmission,” Carini reminisces.
Considering the potential for high returns, someone with the right resources and dedication could transform this burned-out shell back into a sought-after classic.
Think Before You Dive In
If you're tempted to rescue this Dino, it's crucial to do your homework first. Reading comprehensive guides and consulting valuation tools can offer a more grounded perspective. Hagerty's detailed buyer's guide for Dino 246 models is an excellent resource to start with. Understanding the insane amount of effort, parts and funds required to bring this car back to life will hugely impact your decision.
In conclusion, while the idea of owning a Ferrari Dino for less than $130,000 may sound enticing, it's essential to weigh in all the factors carefully. Restoring this legend is not for the faint-hearted, but if done right, the result could be spectacular.
Click below for more about