1959 Maserati 3500 GT

THIS CAR By the mid-1950s, Maserati cars had more than proven their capabilities on the racetrack. With the success of the A6G and 300S clearly established, chief engineer Giulio Alfieri began development of a 3,500 cc engine specifically for racing that would then be refined for production use. The new 3500 GT represented a critical moment for Maserati. Customers were eager for a grand tourer, but building cars by hand was extremely time-consuming. Enter Carrozzeria Touring, renowned for its patented Superleggera coachwork, which was brought on to develop a new design. The 3500 GT emerged with a low-profile body, powerful grille, and a steeply raked wraparound rear window, and created an immediate sensation upon debut at the 1957 Geneva Auto Show.

Maserati Classiche confirms that this left-hand-drive example was produced on July 25, 1959, finished in Grigio Verde (Gray Green), and delivered to Milan. In the 1970s, two California brothers purchased the car, intending to use it as a driver. However, a problem with second gear meant the car would be garaged for the next 30-plus years.

In 2009, the brothers decided it was time for an expert restoration. In a note on file, they state that the Touring bodywork was in excellent original condition with no significant rust or body damage. Brian Moore Restoration stripped and painted the car in its current and highly attractive blue livery. While disassembled for paint, its braking system, suspension, and ancillary systems were rebuilt. The interior was reupholstered and Wilton wool carpets were installed. Unrestored and original features were retained wherever possible, including the distinctive quilted vinyl trunk liner. The car was upgraded with improved insulation, stainless steel exhaust, a period-correct Autovox radio, and Koni shocks. The gearbox was shipped to ZF in Germany for final assembly and testing, then reunited with the rebuilt engine. The finished car went on to place Second in Class at the Niello Concours at Serrano in 2012.

This handsome 3500 GT, fitted with its matching-numbers engine, represents a wonderful combination of long-term ownership and quality restoration under the guidance of dedicated enthusiasts and thoughtful care. Eligible for concours display or driving events, this refined 3500 GT exhibits all the wonderful characteristics that defined the golden age of Italian sports cars.