This Ferrari Dino, which had been abandoned for four years, was estimated at €210,000: it sold for much more than expected amid applause

No one expected such a scenario. At the summer auction organized by Historics Auction, a Ferrari Dino 246 GT The 1972 model, presented as a «barn find» in need of restoration, literally set the auction ablaze. Estimated at between 140,000 and 180,000 pounds sterling (approximately 165,000 to 210,000 euros), it ultimately sold for £274,560, or nearly €320,000, including fees.

A dusty Dino… but far from abandoned

At first glance, this Ferrari It looked like a classic “barn find.” It had been sitting idle for four years, covered in a thin layer of dust, and hadn’t been driven since its owner had to stop using it for health reasons.

But behind this appearance lay a car far more interesting than just a wreck. The car had been owned by the same owner since 2003 and had an impressive maintenance history. Most importantly, just before it was taken off the road, it had undergone more than £25,000 worth of work performed by the highly renowned British specialist DK Engineering.

In 2021, the transmission was removed and rebuilt, which required removing the engine. The brake calipers were also refurbished. The following year, the suspension, engine mounts, exhaust, ignition wires, and several other components were replaced or overhauled. At the time it was put into storage, the Dino was running perfectly and now requires only a return to service rather than a complete restoration.

Unexpected Bidding War

When bidding began at £130,000, everything seemed to be going according to plan. Bids quickly reached the estimate range and then surpassed it without slowing down. The £200,000, then £220,000, and finally £240,000 marks were crossed to the applause of the room. The hammer finally fell at £240,000—or £274,560 including fees—nearly £95,000 above the high estimate. This result is all the more remarkable given that the car, despite its excellent history, remains a restoration project after several years of inactivity.

A particularly desirable Dino

This Ferrari has several features that partly explain buyers« enthusiasm. Its chassis, engine, transmission, and body are all authentic to Ferrari’s records (»matching numbers”). It is also one of only 51 Dinos originally delivered in the rare Rosso Cordoba Metallizzato paint color, even though it was later repainted in Rosso Corsa.

Produced in 1972, this 246 GT—marketed under the Dino brand—is now considered one of the most attractive Ferraris ever designed. Its naturally aspirated V6 engine, mid-engine layout, and Pininfarina-designed styling have long made it a benchmark among collectors.

Is the market for classic Ferraris picking up again?

This result could be more than just a flash in the pan. For several years now, the classic car market has seemed to be treading water, with estimates being revised downward and buyers becoming more cautious, as we saw with this a collection of cars, 77 of which were sold below their low estimate.

This sale shows, however, that cars with impeccable provenance, a well-documented history, and preserved authenticity continue to attract fierce competition. Even a Ferrari in need of restoration can now far exceed its estimates when it has all the right ingredients.

This Dino 246 GT provides a spectacular example of this: initially listed at around €210,000, it ultimately sold for nearly €320,000, confirming that the most beautiful classic cars retain their appeal.