1968 FIAT Dino 2.0-Litre Spider with Hardtop, Coachwork by Pininfarina Registration no. BHJ 305F Chassis no. 135AS000081

* Delivered new in Italy
* Imported in 2002
* One owner from 2003 to 2016
* Recently serviced

In the mid-1960s, Ferrari needed a 2.0-litre production-based engine for the new Formula 2, and conceived the mid-engined Dino to provide the necessary basis. Since the late 1950s, Ferrari's V6-engined sports-racers had used the Dino name, after Enzo Ferrari's late son, Alfredino, who had died in 1956, and this was duly applied to the new road car. Indeed, at this time it was intended that it would be the first of an entirely separate marque. The new V6 power unit would prove as successful on the racetrack as in the showroom: Derek Bell and Ernesto Brambilla both winning races in the European Championship, while Andrea de Adamich triumphed in the 1968 Argentine Temporada series.
However, faced with the daunting task of building 500 units per annum to meet the FIA's homologation requirements, Ferrari turned to FIAT for assistance, the resulting agreement for the latter to build the Dino's four-cam V6 engine leading to a spin-off model for FIAT. Launched in Pininfarina-bodied two-seater Spider form at the 1966 Turin Show, the FIAT Dino carried its 2.0-litre, 160bhp engine ahead of the driver in conventional manner, and was notable as the first FIAT to employ four overhead camshafts and a limited-slip differential as standard. Steel bodied, the newcomer employed a FIAT five-speed gearbox and featured independent front suspension by means of wishbones and coil springs, a live rear axle, and disc brakes all round.
A longer-wheelbase 2+2 Coupé model with Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed Bertone coachwork appeared the following year at the Geneva Salon. In 1969 the V6 engine's capacity was increased to 2,418cc, a ZF gearbox and FIAT 130-type trailing-arm independent rear suspension being adopted at the same time. Power went up to 180bhp (DIN) at 6,600rpm. Styling changes were few: in the Spider's case being confined to a new front grille, rubber centre strips in the bumpers, and different wheel centres, while the interior benefited from improved switch gear and a carpeted boot. A most stylish conveyance, the FIAT Dino raced to 60mph in around 8 seconds and could reach 135mph while making all the right Ferrari-esque noises. Manufacture of the 2.0-litre version ended in 1969 and that of the 2.4-litre in 1973. Total production of the 2.0-litre cars amounted to 3,670 coupés and 1,163 spiders.
This delightful early FIAT Dino Spider has the lightweight all-aluminium 2.0-litre engine (the later 2.4-litre engines had cast-iron blocks). The Dino was delivered new in Italy, though there is little Italian history on file apart from a copy of the libretto. Imported into the UK in 2002, the car was acquired by the recently deceased owner in 2003 and registered in his company's name. He passed away in 2016. Recently serviced (bills on file), the Dino is described by the vendor as in excellent condition for its age; the bodywork, paintwork, and interior appearing to be original. A 1980s radio is fitted at present, though an in-period radio is included in the sale. The car also comes complete with a (very rare) hardtop, jack, tools, workshop manual, and an original owner's manual. Presented in incredibly original condition, this represents a wonderful and rare opportunity to purchase a fabulous example of this most iconic model in such good condition.