If we could pick one Italian car to do it all...well, we'd disappoint many. But for us, it would be the Fiat Dino 2000 Coupe. The whole undertaking motivated by Ferrari's need to sell 500 of the Dino V6 engine in order homologate for Formula 2 racing, Fiat was to produce grand touring coupe to accept the tamed Formula 2 engine. The aluminum V6 engine sported a wider 65 degree angle between banks, likely for better routing of air to the combustion chambers, and was tamed from its racing tune to a streetable version by noted engineer Aurelio Lampredi.
We love the combination of late 60s Giorgietto Giuigiaro styling, long grand tourer shape, basic live axle and leaf spring underpinnings, and Ferrari-derived powertrain. In a more unique color like this blue, we are even more sold on the concept. We've been in a Dino 2000 Spider, and the experience was so memorable that somehow we remember the date of the ride - June 23, 2015.
Year: 1968
Model: Fiat Dino 2000 Coupe
Engine: 2.0L V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 14,500
Price: Auction
Location: Greenville, KY
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1968 Fiat Dino 2000 Coupe
Mechanics The all alloy 2-litre engined Dino with the beautiful honeycomb grille that adorns the frontend, makes this in my opinion, the more pretty and desirable car than the 2400 that followed. The 2-litre engine is peppy and sounds better than the 2400, with the reduced weight of the alloy block also making this a more enjoyable drive. The interior of the car is in superb condition, and all original, retaining its original seats, carpets, gauges, headlining and even steering wheel. The upholstery is not cracked nor ripped in any places, and the dash is also pristine. These Dino interiors are rarely presented in such wonderful condition, especially when considering all elements are original and unrestored. Engine and gearbox both overhauled with the heads on the engine rebuilt New stainless steel exhaust New stainless steel fuel tank New sills All bushes replaced Suspension replaced correct Koni shock absorbers fitted Rebuilt steering box Brakes overhauled New hoses and belts Original Cromadora wheels refurbished and fitted with new Michelin MXV-P185R tyres New Exide Battery
The seller hasn't neglected this car, having recently replaced a number of components, including the exhaust, the fuel tank, the suspension bushings, shocks, hoses, and more. The engine and gearbox are said to be overhauled. While we're not sure what was performed on the gearbox, the engine had its cylinder heads rebuilt. Brakes and steering box were both rebuilt as well. We would want to see before photos of the sills, which are said to be new - hopefully the bodywork was completed by a competent workman.
Our only gripe with this car is that the price will surely exceed our mental budget. We are not sure whether the market favors the aluminum block 2000 or the cast iron block 2400, with its extra 20hp. The 2000 is the one we'd go for. We're looking forward to seeing where this one ends up. Who knows, maybe we'll make room for one of these in the near future.
-Graham