Beauty was once defined as “the proportionate adjustment of all parts so that they cannot be added to, subtracted from, or altered without destroying the harmony of the whole.”
These words, written by Leon Battista Alberti, a Renaissance poet who lived 400 years before the invention of the automobile, perfectly capture the essence of the Ferrari 206 S Dino Spider. I finally had the chance to see this car in person during the annual Pistonheads event at Bicester Heritage.
The 206 S was elegantly displayed among other iconic Ferraris against the backdrop of a former Royal Air Force guard house. Girardo & Co., one of the UK’s leading classic car dealers and who currently manage the 206 S, have given us a glimpse of their incredible stock.
From a distance, you might mistake the 206 S for a Ferrari P330, but a closer look reveals its small, lightweight frame (more than 200kg lighter than its sibling). Both models originate from the famous Carrozzeria sports car workshop and are often referred to as Drogo-bodied cars, named after the design house’s founder Piero Drogo.
The 1960s ushered in an era of advanced aerodynamics and technology. It was no longer all about smooth, simple profiles and tall spoked wheels. The 206 S is a testament to this evolution. It features an elegantly flowing design with few straight lines and bodywork that wraps around the vehicle like a silk gown.
The more you look at it, the more subtle details emerge. The crease along the front fender is hidden from some angles but sharply cut from others, tapering seamlessly into the bodyline before forming a cut in the rear arch.
Among its peers, the 206 S is very popular. Only 18 were built, of which only 13 were in Spider form. Only two of these were equipped with the highest specification engines. It’s the F1-derived Tipo 233 S V6.
The mechanical harshness of the engine is at odds with the bodywork, emphasizing function over aesthetics. Six intake stacks suck air through mesh panels in the deck lid, creating a great soundtrack.
To experience this sound, check out the video released by Girardo & Co. Be sure to turn up the volume.
With 270 horsepower, the 206 S boasts an excellent power-to-weight ratio, weighing just 650 kg (1,433 lb) with driver for propulsion.
Its spartan interior further reduces weight and features a minimalist dashboard dominated by a prominent tachometer in the centre. There’s little to share in the compact cabin other than two low-back bucket seats separated by exposed gear linkage and a gated shifter.
Competing in the 1967 FIA World Sportscar Championship, the 206 S raced alongside the P330/4 in the sub-2000cc class. The 206 S did not have much success in endurance racing, but did well in European hillclimb events. There, its lightweight construction, agile handling and strong power output proved to be a capable combination.
Over time, cars have become larger and more flashy. Styling has shifted to angular designs, creases, and very few surface clumps throughout the product. Safety regulations certainly play a big role in this, but if a company like Mazda can still produce the MX-5, perhaps it’s time to ask, “Where did we go wrong?” I don’t know.
Chaydon Ford
Instagram: Chai Core
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