The history

The Fiat Dino Spider was the first small-series car to be fitted with the 2-liter engine developed by Agostino Ferrari for Formula 2. When production came to an end after 1,163 Spiders, the press wrote:  

 “As a Spider, the Fiat Dino is not just beautiful, but also quite rare. And very expensive, because it is actually a Ferrari.”

In 1968, this Dino Spider with chassis 904 was registered for the first time in the canton of Zurich with the license plate ZH222212 and remained in the possession of the Fiat enthusiast for 14 years. 

On November 23, 1982, a young man, also from Zurich, was able to realize his dream and buy this Dino Spider. The car has remained in his possession to this day. Over the past 42 years, he has regularly looked after his Spider and kept every receipt, making this example a valuable documented car. A gentle restoration was carried out in 2016. Another CHF 24,000 was invested in overhauling the technology to make it ready for sale and for the fresh MFK inspection.

Bodywork and paintwork 

The paintwork was refreshed in its original color in 2016 as a result of a bodywork restoration with the renewal of the sills. The paintwork has very good substance and a beautiful shine. In 2021, the paintwork and interior were gently restored at a cost of CHF 14,000.

Interior

The leather interior was also renewed, as was the carpet landscape. The same applies to the dashboard, which was renewed due to weathering and age.

Engine and mechanics

The engine was regularly serviced and any necessary repairs were carried out immediately. Very good exhaust emission values, tested compression values of the engine and a freshly overhauled gearbox mean that the Dino's original 71,000 kilometers of mileage are hardly noticeable.

Chassis

The chassis and brakes were revised for the recent veteran's test and show very good test values.

Driving experience

Although built by Fiat, the Dino Spider was designed by Pininfarina and fitted with the engine by Ferrari. And this is evident when driving with all the senses. With 160 hp of power, the 1100 kg kerb weight is light as a feather. The engine revs up and shows that even 2 liters of displacement can hiss. The rigid rear axle requires a good feel and a little practice for a very sporty driving style. 

Acoustics and torque, beauty and fresh air - this makes the Dino Spider a wonderful pleasure car.

Recommendation

This Dino fulfills all the criteria of a collector's vehicle. 

- The Pininfarina-designed Spider is rare

- with the engine developed by Ferrari's son - Agostino (Dino) Ferrari - who died young, the car carries an incomparable legend

- this example with Swiss first delivery and over 40 years in second hand is unique and extensively documented.

- The Dino Spider is not only a good investment, it is also a pleasure to drive.