Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
AM1011038
Estimate:
$275,000 - $375,000 US
In the late 1950s, Maserati found themselves in a bit of predicament. The company built an extremely successful reputation on the racetrack, but began to find it increasingly difficult to keep up with the expenses associated with racing. So in 1958 the decision was made to officially suspend its factory racing program, and refocus their efforts to the production of road-going cars. All while still supporting privateers who chose to race a Maserati.
In 1957 Maserati introduced the 3500 GT at the Geneva Motor Show. Designed by Guilio Alfieri, it marked the first car produced by Maserati solely for the purposes of road use. The 3500GT featured a 2+2 design with elegant coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring, built utilizing their Superleggara technique in which aluminum is hand-formed over a steel tubular frame. The car was a success, and some argue that it even saved the company from financial ruin. Maserati would go on to produce the 3500 GT through 1964, and while the production run was long, it was done so in small numbers. Coupé production totaled fewer than 2,000 units.
According to the Maserati Certificate of Origin, this 3500 GT Coupé by Touring, chassis number AM101*1038*, was produced in August of 1960. It was built with engine number AM101*1038* and completed with Touring body number 8681.
The Maserati 3500 GT on offer is presented in a gorgeous shade of maroon with brilliant accenting brightwork throughout the vehicle. The car rides on Vredestein Sprint Classic tires which are mounted on steel wheels with factory wheel covers. Additional exterior features include amber foglamps and a driver’s sideview mirror. The car is powered by a 220-hp, 3,485-cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine featuring triple Weber carburetors and twin-plug ignition. The magnificent sound of the Maserati six can be heard through dual exhaust featuring ANSA Marmite exhaust tips. The engine is paired to a manual transmission.
The interior is completed in black featuring leather bucket seats and wool carpet. The dashboard features full Jaeger instrumentation as well as a Blaupunkt radio. The odometer states the car has completed less than 42,300-km (26,300 miles), a number which is believed to be original. The car’s 2+2 seating configuration features two Maserati branded ashtrays one for front and another for rear passengers.
This is an excellent opportunity to own a rare Italian grand turismo. This 1960 3500 GT Coupé by Touring would make an excellent addition to any collection.
