1976 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4

• The first Bertone-designed production Ferrari

• One of only 547 right-hand drive, UK-delivered examples

• Supplied by Maranello Concessionaires on 15 July 1976

• Classically finished in gleaming Rosso Corsa over Nero

• The 3-litre, quad-cam, all-alloy V8 produces 250bhp

• Genuine 22,550 miles from new

• Only available due to lack of space required for more recent acquisitions

Introduced at the 1973 Paris Motor Show, the Dino 308 GT4 was a significant departure for Ferrari in several ways. It was the first production car from Modena to feature a mid-engined V8, a layout that would become common to their core range for decades to come, along with the first production model to feature Bertone styling rather than Pininfarina bodywork. The styling was controversial at the time, with some journalists comparing it to the Bertone-designed Lancia Stratos and Lamborghini Urraco. The chassis was based on the Dino 246 but was stretched to make space for a 2+2 configuration. The 3.0-litre V8 was integrally joined with the gearbox and had an alloy block and heads with dual overhead camshafts fed through 4 Weber 40 DCNF carburettors.  As is often the way, Bertone's styling effort probably looks better now than it ever has, but at the time, the proportions gave traditionalists an attack of the vapours. For all this, the car was a huge success being bigger and more usable than any other mid-engine car had managed or would manage for a while. More than 3,600 were sold, dwarfing sales of V12 models and showing Ferrari the way forward. Today, these '70s Ferraris have come of age with their classic looks and brilliant handling and are as fast as you are ever going to need in the real world, with a top speed of over 150mph and a 0-60mph acceleration time of 6.4 seconds. 

This Dino GT4, finished in its original factory shade of Rosso Corsa with a Nero interior, has covered an incredibly low 22,550 miles from new (NB the odometer was replaced at 14,000 miles with just 8,550 miles being covered since). Having formed part of a private collection for some years, this particular Ferrari is only now available to make space for more recent acquisitions. With significant works by Moto Technique of West Molesey, Surrey some years ago, including a total body refurbishment, engine and gearbox overhaul, the condition is excellent. With little use since but constant and regular care, it is difficult to criticise this car in any serious way. With a striking exterior, the interior presenting extremely well and the engine bay nicely detailed, this very low mileage example is one that deserves your serious consideration.  A highly recommended and inexpensive route into Prancing Horse ownership.