The 1973 Dino 246 GTS classic car for sale represents a pinnacle of automotive design and rarity. This particular example, chassis number 07182, stands out as one of only six right-hand drive (RHD), UK-delivered 246 GTS Dinos finished in the exceptionally rare Bleu Chiaro Metallizzato. This makes it one of the most spectacular of the 256 UK-delivered cars to emerge recently. Its unique attributes and comprehensive history elevate its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
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Original Specifications and Early Journey
Invoiced to Maranello Concessionaires in October 1973, factory records show this Dino was equipped with electric windows, metallic paint, and black cloth seat inserts complementing a beige leather interior. Instead of remaining in Great Britain, it was sold new to Henry Linton Cars Ltd. of Jersey in the Channel Islands. The car’s detailed history file remarkably traces its lineage back to 1975 when it was registered to Digby Martland of St. John. Martland, a notable racing driver in the UK, shared a works-entered Chevron B16 at the 1970 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Dino returned to Britain in 1977, sold via the Greencoat Motor Company in London.
An Australian Chapter and Return to UK
Mr. Speairs, director of the Australian Express newspaper, purchased the Dino with intentions of enjoying it in his native Australia. The car embarked on a journey to Brisbane, arriving in March 1978. Early Australian ownership is thoroughly documented, including a classified ad from October 1983 detailing its “almost concours condition” and “low mileage.” Peter Steensel of Sydney owned the car from December 1983 until 1999. Subsequently, Paul Stevenson, also of Sydney, exported the car back to the UK.
Certified Authenticity and Continuous Care
Upon its return to the UK, Geoffrey Rollason of London acquired the car, followed by Mario Bondini of Surrey in 2014. Under Bondini’s ownership, Ferrari Classiche certified the car in 2020. This certification confirmed the retention of its original chassis, engine, gearbox, and bodywork. Numerous service invoices from authorized Ferrari dealerships and specialist workshops like Meridien Modena, Autofficina, and Bob Houghton are on hand. Following this meticulous work, the car received an invitation to the prestigious Cartier “Style et Luxe” Concours D’Elegance at Goodwood’s Festival of Speed.
Exquisite Restoration and Current Condition
In the summer of 2024, a decision was made to restore the Dino to its as-delivered specification. Webster and Lancaster in Watford were tasked with stripping and repainting the car to precisely match the period-correct Bleu Chiaro Metallizzato. They meticulously used both period photographs and the expertise of Dino specialist Matthias Bartz. Simultaneously, O’Rourke Coachtrimmers in West Sussex retrimmed the interior. Photographs of this extensive work are available in the comprehensive history file.
Provenance and Rarity
The results of the restoration are truly spectacular to witness. The car’s history file comprehensively chronicles its journey from Jersey to London, then to Australia, and back again. It also verifies the car’s original mileage of just under 52,500 miles. Significantly, the car includes its original manuals and service book, featuring a stamp from an April 1974 service in Jersey. Finding a beautifully restored, tastefully specified Dino with documented history and Classiche certification proves a challenging task. With only six RHD Dinos finished in Bleu Chiaro Metallizzato, this particular example stands as a remarkably rare classic. It simply awaits an enthusiastic new owner ready to cherish it for years to come.
Disclaimer: Vehicle details are provided for informational purposes only. Potential purchasers should conduct their own thorough research and inspection.
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