When we talk about the Ferrari Dino, it is above all its curves from the 70s and its sad tribute that come to mind. But today, thanks to the British Kevin O’Rourke and his team, this retro icon offers a second life. The Dino Evo Restomod project pushes all the limits: the last evolution will take a V8 from Ferrari 458 Italia!
Ferrari Dino: A too wise car?
Launched in 1967, the Dino 206 GT was the first rear central engine ferrari. Followed in 1969 by the 246 GT, it gained in displacement (2.4 L) and in power (195 hp), but remains far from the performance of Ferrari V12. At the time, Enzo Ferrari had decided to Badger Dino and not Ferrari to pay tribute to his disappeared son, Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, who had contributed to the development of the V6 engine.
Many love her for his style, his story. Little for its performance.
The Dino Evo project: a first already impressive project
From the first glance, the work accomplished on the Dino Evo impresses. The aluminum body, painted in a superb deep metallic blue, was handmade according to the classic methods, up to the smallest detail. We are far from a simple restoration project: here, each piece has been thought, tested, adjusted, and the whole breathes quality. A complete, almost artisanal overhaul, with body panels overhauled by hand.
Under the hood, more original V6 Dino engine. It was replaced by a V8 block of Ferrari 328, deeply modified. Realized at 3.8 liters, equipped with titanium connecting rods, lightened pistons, modern injection, latest generation electronic management and Tubistyle exhaust line, this engine transforms the car without distorting the mind. Everything remains coupled with a manual gearbox, for a purist driving experience.
To guarantee road behavior at the height, technical motorcycle has left nothing to chance:
- Ferrari 360 Modena brakes,
- Suspension with reinforced arm,
- Electric power steering,
- 17 -inch magnesium rims welcoming modern Michelin tires.
Each element has been designed to improve efficiency, safety and pleasure without ever betraying aesthetics or original balance.
An even more extreme project: a Dino with 458 Italia engine
But Kevin O’Rourke has another project, barely visible in the background. And not just any.
It is a Dino equipped with the atmospheric V8 V8 engine of the Ferrari 458 Italia, developing nearly 600 horsepower, with a 6 -speed manual gearbox, ceramic brakes of F430, and Brembo calipers.
With such a mechanics, this dino will be transformed into a modern supercar, while keeping its vintage look. A project that we can’t wait to see rolling!
