Cher's First Ferrari Dino Hits the Auction Block: A Legendary Icon in Unbelievable Condition
When the 1970s rolled around, it brought along not just 'Star Wars' and economic challenges but also a gem for automotive enthusiasts: the Ferrari Dino. Named in honor of Enzo Ferrari’s late son, the Dino represents a pivotal moment in the car maker's history, with its V-6 engine and its first-ever mid-engine layout for a road car. Among those lucky to own this classic was none other than Cherilyn Sarkisian, universally known as Cher.
The Star and Her Ride
This very 1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS isn’t just a collector's item; it's a pop culture artifact. Believed to be Cher's first Ferrari, this iconic car is currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, with bids already reaching a staggering $500,000, and more than a week still to go. It’s like a dream wrapped in nostalgia for both car aficionados and Cher’s fans.
According to renowned Ferrari historian Marcel Massini, this specific car, chassis number 04036, was initially delivered to Modern Classic Motors in Nevada in 1972. Shortly thereafter, it found its way to Cher through Hollywood Sports Cars in California. Though Cher didn’t hold onto the car for too long, it passed into the hands of racing driver Chris Cord by 1974.
Tracing the Roots of the Dino
Launched in 1967, the Dino came fitted with a 2.0-liter V-6 engine, initially in 206 GT guise. The concept was simple yet revolutionary—an entry-level Ferrari aimed at the Porsche 911 market. It was also Ferrari's very first road car with a mid-engine layout, a move Enzo Ferrari had previously resisted. The original 206 GT was succeeded by the more potent 246 GT in 1969, which packed a 2.4-liter V-6 engine producing 192 hp. Cher’s 1972 246 GTS was the targa-roof version introduced that same year and maintained the same engine as its coupe sibling.
1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS once owned by Cher - Photo credit: Bring a Trailer
Musical Connections on Four Wheels
This isn’t the first time a Dino with musical ties has gone on the market. Earlier this year, another 246 GTS connected to rock royalty found a new home. Previously owned by Led Zeppelin’s manager, Peter Grant, the car was auctioned off for £300,000 (approximately $381,600) in a Car & Classic online sale.
Cher’s Dino, however, is expected to fetch a much higher price, driven by its celebrity provenance and the appeal of owning a slice of automotive history. Intrigued buyers with deep pockets might soon find themselves in a bidding war, each hoping to own this legendary icon.
This auction reveals how much value we place on the intersection of fame, history, and craftsmanship. The Ferrari Dino is more than just a car; it’s a story, a memory, a piece of art. And when it once belonged to someone as legendary as Cher, it becomes an irreplaceable artifact worth far more than just dollars and cents.
If you're a seasoned car collector or just a fan of Cher, this Dino isn’t just a car; it’s an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of both automotive and pop culture history.