We’ve lost count of the number of times rumors about a new entry-level Ferrari have surfaced, only to be shot down by company executives. Most recently, Ferrari General Manager Amedeo Felisa said there were absolutely no plans for a new model positioned below the F430. But again the rumors have surfaced, this time with AutoZeitung claiming the new model will arrive in three months.
This latest report from Germany makes no mention of the name “Dino,” which many publications have speculated would be revived for Ferrari ’s rival to the Aston Martin Vantage, Audi R8 , and Porsche 911. Costing a bit over $100,000, the car would be Ferrari’s least expensive model by a significant margin.
If these rumors are to be believed, one possible explanation for Mr. Felisa’s comments at the Los Angeles auto show about no new “Dino” — which he mentioned by name — is that Ferrari will use a different name.
Frankfurt debut?
Most reports have indicated the the new low-cost Ferrari will arrive for the 2009 model year. AutoZeitung says the new car will first show its face at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September, bug that vehicle would probably be billed as a concept.
Over the past two years, rumors have continued to circulate about the car. In October 2006, AutoWeek said the new “Dino” was “very much alive and in the early stage of development in partnership with Maserati .”
All of this comes despite vehement denial from Ferrari officials as often as rumors pop up. In 2006, Ferrari Deputy Managing Director Amedo Felisa said the idea had been shelved. In April of that year, Ferrari CEO Luca Cordero di Montezemolo also denied plans for a new, cheaper model.
Mystery car connection?
Given Ferrari’s continual rejection of these rumors, we’re far from convinced. However, recent photos showing a mystery Ferrari model under a car cover at the automaker’s headquarters should not be ignored.
Although the spies at Hidden Image claimed this car is the next-generation F430, we suspect it’s far too soon for Ferrari to have a finished prototype of a 2010 model. With that in mind, one can’t help but wonder if what we’re looking at is Ferrari’s new entry-level concept car.
