This model, introduced as a GTS variant in 1972, features a removable targa roof — a key element for taller drivers and a highlight of the Dino’s iconic Pininfarina styling. You can read more about the model’s design heritage in this Ferrari Dino 246 buyer’s guide from Hemmings.
Mechanical Excellence
The Dino’s 2.4-liter V6 engine, mounted in the middle for ideal weight distribution, was paired with a lightweight frame and independent suspension on all four corners, delivering a nimble and responsive driving experience. Ventilated disc brakes provided ample stopping power, a necessity for high-speed road runs like the Cannonball.
Learn more about Ferrari’s V6 performance heritage in this deep dive by Evo Magazine.
A True Collector’s Dream
When a vehicle carries both unrestored originality and a documented racing legacy, it becomes more than just a car — it becomes a piece of living history. This Dino 246 GTS, presented as Lot R19 at Mecum Monterey 2025, is one such example.
Its matching-numbers engine, period-correct finish, and preserved interior all contribute to its collector-grade status. The market for classic Ferraris, especially ones tied to iconic motorsport events, has remained robust — with values for Dino 246 GTS models ranging between $500,000 and $700,000, and sometimes more based on provenance.
For current Ferrari auction trends, visit RM Sotheby’s Ferrari auction listings.
A Car That Shaped Cannonball Culture
While Hollywood later turned the Cannonball Run into a comedy franchise starring Burt Reynolds, it’s cars like this Dino 246 GTS that defined the original spirit: adventure, rebellion, and a love for the open road.
Its participation in the real 1975 Cannonball — not a dramatized version — gives it a legacy no other Dino can claim.
Want to explore more on how this car fits into the evolution of Ferrari design and endurance racing? Check out this timeline from Ferrari’s official website.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Car
This 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS is a true rarity: a road-legal sports car that didn’t just look good — it set records, crossed a continent, and became a legend in the process. Its auction appearance is a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of authentic motorsport history.
As it goes under the hammer at Mecum Monterey 2025, this car carries more than horsepower — it carries the weight of American automotive rebellion and Italian engineering brilliance, all rolled into one mid-engine marvel.
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