Dino 246 GTS Restomod (Prototype)

Ferrari 3.2 Litre V8 Engine with 300bhp

What if….

Having restored more Dino 246’s than probably anyone else in the industry and knowing them inside out and back to front, Kevin O’Rourke decided one day to ask himself the question: “…What if ?”

For the best part of 30 years Kevin O’Rourke had by his own admission been a “Copyist” reproducing exactly the same old Dino 246 that had left the factory gates of Maranello and in most cases “better” with many concours winners to his name.

Now, as every red blooded petrolhead knows, the Dino 246 is arguably one of the prettiest sports cars ever designed, but its power output (reputed to be 195bhp from a 2.4 litre V6) always left a little to be desired.

And so it was, that the Moto Technique engineering department set about developing and producing an updated evolution of a sports car that the Dino had always had the potential to be.

The original 2.4 V6 engine and gearbox was replaced with a 3.2 litre V8 engine and transmission from a Ferrari 328.

But, this was not just a case of an engine and gearbox change. The engine was updated with modern throttle bodies and MoTec engine management ECU’s which helped raise the engine output from the standard 270bhp to 300bhp, but with increased torque and drivability.

Naturally with more horse power you require better handling and braking power. Hence the chassis was developed to be stiffer along with the addition of Ferrari 360 disc brakes and callipers for better stopping. With the bigger brakes and callipers came 360 wheels and the ability to use wider modern Pirelli tyres to give superior grip. The decision to use 360 wheels on a classic car has divided opinions, as Kevin admits himself its a bit of a Marmite situation, but on this first generation development, there was no other choice really as the wheel has to clear the calliper.

Once all these elements had been added and developed to work together in perfect harmony by the Moto Technique team, the result you get is a classic Italian sports car of the late 60’s early 70’s that drives and handles like a modern sports car in terms of power, handling, reliability and safety, whilst retaining all the charm and character of the original Dino 246.

Other modern touches that were added to this Dino update were electric power steering and air conditioning. Little features that again just add that bit more to bring this timeless classic into the 21st Century.

The Moto Technique “Evolution” Restored of the Dino 246 was carried out using genuine Ferrari parts throughout where applicable.

Check out the full photo set of this completed project in our portfolio section:

DINO 246 GTS Restomod 3.2 Litre V8 300bhp PORTFOLIO.