The year was 1958, and the automotive world was forever changed with the unveiling of the Maserati 3500 GTI. A true work of art, the automobile boasted unparalleled speed, power, and elegance, capturing the hearts of automotive enthusiasts around the world.
Source: Girardo & Co
At first glance, the Maserati 3500 GTI was a sight to behold. With its sleek, aerodynamic lines and shining chrome exterior, it exuded an air of sophistication and style that was simply irresistible. But it was under the hood where the true magic lay.
Source: Auto Vercity
In 1958, Maserati found itself at a critical juncture. Despite having a well-established reputation for producing some of the world’s most exquisite and high-performance sports vehicles, the Italian automaker was facing significant challenges to remain viable in a fiercely competitive marketplace. The story of the 3500 GTI began in 1953 when the brand hired engineer Gioacchino Colombo, a veteran of the racing world, to help develop a new line of sports vehicles. Colombo’s first task was to design a new engine, and he came up with a masterpiece – a 3.5-liter inline 6 that would become the heart and soul of the new automobile. But it wasn’t until 1957 that the vehicle began to take shape. Maserati hired designer Touring Superleggera to create the body and what they came up with was nothing short of breathtaking. The 3500 GTI boasted a striking blend of smooth lines and aerodynamic curves, showcasing a true masterpiece of automotive design that captured the attention and admiration of car enthusiasts far and wide. This exceptional sports vehicle not only possessed a commanding engine, generating an impressive 220 horsepower and achieving a rapid 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 8 seconds but also reached a top speed of 140 mph, firmly establishing itself as the fastest sports car of its era. The interior of the 3500 GTI was crafted with both comfort and elegance in mind, offering passengers a luxurious experience with its spacious layout and plush leather seats, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. Making its grand debut at the prestigious 1958 Geneva Motor Show, the vehicle received an overwhelming reception, gaining instant acclaim for its remarkable engineering and cutting-edge design. Orders poured in from various corners of the globe, as the 3500 GTI became a symbol of triumph for Maserati. Over the subsequent years, the company went on to produce a remarkable 2,200 units of this automotive marvel, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of automotive history.
Source: YSM Motors
1958 was a landmark year for the Italian automaker. It was the first year that the model featured fuel injection, hence the “I” in the name. The introduction of fuel injection increased the vehicle’s horsepower output and improved its performance. In technical terms, the 1958 edition featured a powerful 3.5-liter inline 6 engine capable to produce 220 horsepower and reach a top speed of 140 mph, revving from 0-60 mph in just 8 seconds. In addition, this engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The 1958 model was designed with the classic Italian style in mind, featuring a lengthy, smooth body accented by chrome trim and bumpers. It had 16-inch wire wheels and came in various colors. The car’s standout feature was its distinct grille, which took inspiration from the brand’s Tipo 60/61 “Birdcage” race car. Inside the 1958 model, luxury was the main focus as high-grade materials like leather and wood were used throughout. The dashboard boasted a complete set of gauges including a tachometer, speedometer, and oil pressure gauge. The seats were both comfortable and supportive, and the car had sufficient room for passengers and their belongings. In addition, the most significant difference between the 1958 version and previous model years was the introduction of fuel injection. This change increased the vehicle’s horsepower and improved its performance. Additionally, the 3500 GTI featured a revised suspension system that provided better handling and ride comfort. Other changes included the addition of disc brakes and a larger fuel tank. In conclusion, 1958 was a significant model year for the Italian automaker. The introduction of fuel injection and other improvements made the car faster and more enjoyable to drive, while its classic Italian styling and luxurious interior made it a highly desirable vehicle.
Source: Maserati
The 1958 release of the model attracted several famous owners over the years. The list of notable owners of this iconic Italian sports vehicle included famous British racing driver Stirling Moss, French actor and a major star of French cinema Jean-Paul Belmondo, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, a legendary American actor Anthony Quinn, and a British actor, and comedian Peter Sellers.
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