Reports of a future Dino have been wide-spread recently, accompanied with several artists impressions. Although exact specifications of the project are still sketchy, certain details of the project have been emerging slowly for several months already.

Two separate projects have been mentioned, which focus around a new Ferrari to challenge fierce competition from the Stuttgart rival Porsche. Both cars have completely different features, and it is possible that both will hit the road as separate new models. Intriguingly, both projects have ties to Maserati.
 

The more established Dino replacement project can be described as a true evolution of the original concept. A completely new light weight V6 engine with around 380-400 bhp is under development, designed to be used in a mid-mounted position.

Development of the engine started in collaboration with the Maserati engineering arm of the group, intended for use on future Maserati models, to be fitted on the new Spyder and GT from 2008 onwards. Rumours also suggested that the engine could filter down through Maserati to high-end Alfa Romeo models in 2010.

Unlike the original Dino, Ferrari do not intend the replacement to be sold far below the average range price, although the car will be labelled as a separate brand. Instead of targeting the Porsche Boxtser and Cayman category, a price of approximately 100,000 euros is likely. Competition would include the Porsche Carrera S, and the new Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

The Dino will be targeted at the US market in particular, and will offer North American Ferrari dealers a potential new 'entry level' brand to sit alongside the Prancing Horse models in their showrooms. The new Dino could replace Maserati which may evolve away from the existing sales and distribution network as it chases higher volumes. The modern-day strength of the historic Dino 'name' means that it would be instantly accepted by potential US buyers, something that has been more difficult for the less well remembered Maserati name to achieve thus far.

The Dino's close yet distinct separation from Ferrari would prevent any dilution of what is comfortably the world's most valuable automotive brand name, while at the same time firmly hooking into the myth. Allowing Ferrari to increase production, it is an ideal scenario from all sides.

A classic space-frame chassis is expected to be developed by US company Alcoa, who collaborated successfully with Ferrari engineers on the 360 Modena chassis. The pioneering design was so successful that it was also used for the F430 and 612 Scaglietti. Benefits of the construction method include a notably lower weight, combined with remarkable strength.

In terms of exterior design, no credible information has yet surfaced. Artists impressions clearly show that the incorporation of features from the original Dino 206 and 246 would be appreciated, such as the small louvers on the front luggage lid. Pininfarina are expected to deliver an initial concept car in 2007.  
 

A more recent report, by English car magazine Autocar, has briefed about a project codenamed “California”, which has been considered by many as a likely candidate for a Dino reintroduction. According to several magazines ncluding Autocar, Ferrari are about to give the green light to a model based off the future Maserati Spyder mechanicals. Autocar state that this car's replacement has been halted for a complete reengineering using a modified version of the Premium platform, as used on the Alfa Romeo 159 and Brera models.

Conflicting inside information has cast a shadow of confusion over the matter, with a Maserati Spyder prototype being spotted driving around Modena recently. So far this year, no Spyder's have been spotted on the Nürburgring though, and spies who closely monitored the car's testing in Arjeplog suspect that the development has matured to a point where no further extensive testing is required.  The Spyder has already undergone testing on the Nürburgring in mule form, as well as on Porsche's Weissach track.

Although insiders still claim that the Spyder is due for a launch at Frankfurt later this year, reports about a temporary halt, and the use of the Premium platform have been emanating from many angles. The Maserati GT Project has witnessed a long development history, with the exterior design having seen proposals from both Italdesign and Pininfarina.  Now, with extensive testing over, a further set-back would be a stab in the back to the Maserati range.  Ferrari employees have, however, so far denied that the Maserati GT project is being used as a basis for a future Ferrari.
  

by Paddy Granger