The Maranello archives confirm that chassis 03846 was built in April 1972 and delivered new to Ferrari’s authorised dealer, Chinetti in New York, then to its first owner in Ohio USA. The car’s original factory specification included air conditioning, electric windows and Cromodora wheels.
Though not officially designated as such, there were three distinct series in the production of the 246 Dino and chassis 03846 is an example of the last ‘E’ series cars.
The Dino Register traces this Dino’s history almost from new, showing early ownership in Texas by Dr Ahlschier, then in 1988 via Ed Niles (the well-known USA Ferrari expert) to Mr Leslie Ward in England whose ownership lasted for the next 27 years.
After being imported to England in 1988 the car was unregistered during its restoration, finally being registered with the DVLA in 1994. Subsequent MOT certificates confirm that the car travelled only 7,910 miles during the ensuing 21 years. Though little used during this period invoices in the history file confirm that the car has always been serviced and fully maintained.
In 1989 the engine was fully rebuilt by BGM Motor Engineers of Derby, since when the car has travelled just 7,900 miles, and in 2003 FAB Racing in Earl Shilton completely rebuilt the gearbox, including new synchromesh and a new clutch. In May 2015 the distributor was fully rebuilt by Bob Houghton Ferrari and the car fully-serviced by the experienced ex-Graypaul Ferrari mechanics at McGurk Performance Cars.
Most importantly, and very unusually for a Ferrari Dino, the car is exceptionally rust-free due no doubt to its long sojourn in the dry State of Texas, followed by careful storage and very little use since its arrival in England.
The car is complete with its original Sales Invoice, very rare Factory Warranty Card (showing the service stamps), Owners Handbook, Service Manual, Document Wallet Folder, tool kit, jack and bag. Within the history file is its V5, current MOT and invoices outlining of all the work completed since its arrival in the UK. A good, usable example of the pretty Dino that represents good value in the current market.
