Spy Shots: 2008 Ferrari Dino

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Here is the first proof that Ferrari is working on a new 911 fighter, in the spirit of the Dino. The classic Dino was built between 1968 and 1976, and its name honored founder Enzo Ferrari’s son, Alfredino “Dino” Ferrari, who died in 1956 at age 24 from muscular dystrophy.

These exclusive pictures show a Dino test mule undergoing early tests. Based on an F430 body, the prototype’s front fenders are a little wider and the side rocker panels are missing due to a different cooling system. It also looks like the area around gearbox and rear axle is slightly different. Another thing that identifies the test car as a mule for the Dino is the engine sound, or should we say the lack of it. It clearly doesn’t sound as sharp as an F430.

While that vintage Dino had a V-6 behind the driver, the new one will be powered by a V-8 with 400 hp. A Coupe will come first, with a Spider version to arrive later. It’s likely that Pininfarina will do the design work with input from former Ferrari design boss Frank Stephenson, who now heads Fiat’s Centro Stile operation.

Both BMW M6 and Aston Martin V8 Vantage testers were spotted at the Ferrari facility in Maranello, so it seems like they are the main target for the Dino as well, along with the Porsche 911. Insiders expect the Dino to be priced from about $140,000, with estimated production of 4000 units annually, which would double Ferrari production.

The Dino could arrive as early as 2009. Our computer illustration shows an artist’s interpretation of the new vehicle’s styling direction. —Hans G. Lehmann/ Hidden Image

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