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This article reviews the 1968 Fiat Dino 2.4 Spider, renowned for its theatrical V6 engine, striking design, and exhilarating driving dynamics. Though once overlooked, the model's value and appeal have been rediscovered by enthusiasts.
The V6 is pure theatre. Blip the throttle and it's all whoops and wails overlaid with what sounds like machine-gun fire. Updates resulted in a power boost to 180bhp at 6600rpm, with greater torque—166lb ft at 5500rpm. A ZF five-speed gearbox with a dog-leg first was standard, while a Fiat 130 saloon-derived independent suspension was used.
Spiders and Coupés were assembled in Maranello, with bodyshells trimmed and finished before delivery. Production continued until both models were dropped in 1972, though unsold cars lingered into the following year due to the fuel crisis. Only 424 of the 2.4-litre Spiders and 2414 Coupés were made. Dinos were never officially offered in right-hand drive, and in the UK they were often overlooked, frequently suffering poor maintenance as they aged.
Over the years, values languished; for decades the model was undervalued. Now, enthusiasm for proper restoration has returned, with owners willing to invest knowing the cars may hold their value. The Spider is considered the more striking model, with the Hagerty Price Guide listing it at £123,000—£72,000 more than the Coupé. The 1968 example features the earliest and nicest detailing, such as a chrome grille and smooth bumpers.
Unlike its sibling, the Spider looks more Ferrari than Fiat, but owner Marc Gordon has chosen to forego the Cavallino Rampante badges. The interior offers more space than expected, with an attractive aluminium fascia and a driving position that is comfortable despite offset pedals. Gordon, a historic racer and Goodwood winner, regularly uses the car, including a recent trip from the UK to Spain and back—evidence of its reliability and well-sorted mechanicals.
The short-stroke V6 engine feels lively and is free-spinning, making the driving experience engaging rather than outright fast by modern standards. The gearbox is enjoyable to use, though early models have a reputation for weakness; still, the setup remains rewarding when driven with enthusiasm. Performance is compelling, with the car pulling energetically despite its modest torque figure, encouraging spirited driving, especially with the top down.
