Makes and Models: 3500

The 3500 GT was the first road car produced by an Italian brand. It became an important part of the brand’s history, helping to establish the reputation of an automobile manufacturer in addition to its racing image.

Source: Supercars.net

The Maserati 3500 GT was the first production vehicle built by an Italian manufacturer of the same name. Designed by Aldo Brovarone, who also penned 5000 GT, this performance automobile was a 2+2 seater coupé available with gray leather upholstery and red carpets, or Saddle Brown leather upholstery and matching carpets. The futuristic design and elegant proportions of the roadster represented a break from the short-lived “Boxer” era of the brand, which preceded it. A prototype four-seater two-door sports coupe, created under the leadership of the company’s chief engineer Giulio Alfieri, was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1957.

The origins

Source: Mecum Auctions

Before the introduction of the production 3500 GT, Maserati was in a relentless pursuit of racing glory. By the mid-50s competition with Ferrari reached its highest point, and new victories became more and more difficult. The races took a lot of time and money, which hit the financial state of the Orsi family (brand’s founders) harshly. At the same time, Europe recovered from the war, and living standards and road quality improved significantly. This contributed to the return of expensive automobiles to the market. The future of the company depended on whether it could gain a foothold in the segment of luxury sports vehicles of the Gran Turismo class and increase production from tens to hundreds of units a year. Thus 1957 became a turning point for the Italian brand, as the introduction of the 3500 GT opened up a whole new period for mass production. Equipped with a tubular frame, an in-line 6-cylinder engine with a DOHC valve scheme, and hemispherical combustion chambers, the automobile could develop a power of 230 hp.  Those parts were manufactured in Italy, however, the rest had to be sourced from the UK and Germany. The vehicle received a ZF 4-speed manual transmission, Salisbury rear axle, Alford & Alder suspension, Girling brakes, etc. Interestingly, at the  1957 Geneva Motor Show, the company introduced two prototypes – one with an Allemano-made body, the second from Touring, known as the “White Lady”.  The “White Lady” won the hearts of the public and this body went into series production. In 1959, an open version appeared from the Vignale studio, designed by Giovanni Michelotti. In 1961, a modification of the 3500 GTi was released with Lucas mechanical fuel injection, with a power of 235 hp. In total, from 1957 to 1964, the company sold 2226 vehicles, which was 15 times more than all previous models combined.

The 1957 model year

Source: Carrozzieri-Italiani

The 3500 GT was a 2+2 coupe powered by an Inline 6 engine. The vehicle was driven by a SOHC all-alloy, quad-cam 4 valve per cylinder straight-four at the front with a capacity of 3.5 liters. It was first produced in 1957, called for one year as the 3500, and then renamed “GT”. The body had been designed by Carrozzeria Boano and built by Pininfarina, which also constructed both coupes and convertibles depending on customer demand. The interior upholstery designs were created by Franco Martinengo, brother of Tino Martinengo who set out his idea in Maserati’s Style Studio in Turin. The body was built using proprietary Superleggera technology from extruded aluminum panels on a steel tubular frame. In road setup with three Weber carburetors, Marelli twin ignition, dual fuel pump, and wet sump lubrication system, it developed 220 hp and accelerated to 220 km/h. The roadster received a tubular frame, an independent front suspension with double wishbones and springs, a dependent rear suspension with semi-elliptical springs, telescopic shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars, as well as steering in the form of a recirculating ball and 16-inch wheels with diagonal Pirelli Cinturato tires. The roadster was very expensive, but the company showed exceptional attention to its customers and provided quality after-sales service. The model was owned by Prince Rainier III of Monaco, singer Giuseppe di Stefano and actors Tony Curtis, Stuart Granger, Anthony Quinn, Rock Hudson, and Alberto Sordi.

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Source: Mecum Auctions

The 1957 Maserati 3500 GT was the last model that incorporated the traditional ‘Superleggera’ technique of the factory, which ensured that the automobile was both lightweight and extremely rigid. The roadster had a body of glass-reinforced plastic resin, placed on a steel floor.

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With its unveiling in the early 1960s, the Maserati 3500 GTI sent shockwaves through the automotive realm, capturing the imagination of enthusiasts and critics alike. Beyond being just a means of transportation, the 3500 GTI transcended the boundaries of mere machinery, becoming an embodiment of the extravagant and glamorous Italian lifestyle that captivated the world.

Source: JD Classic

This automotive masterpiece was not merely an extravagant indulgence; it served as a powerful catalyst for the brand. The 3500 GTI marked a critical juncture, propelling Maserati into the upper echelons of the automotive pantheon. Its success paved the way for subsequent iconic models, solidifying the brand’s reputation as a formidable force in the world of luxury sports vehicles.

The origins

Source: Bring a Trailer

In the realm of automotive history, the story of the model stands as a testament to the triumph of human ingenuity and unwavering dedication. It is a narrative that weaves together the extraordinary talents of several visionaries, each leaving an indelible mark on the birth of this legendary vehicle. The journey began in the early 1950s, when the Maserati brothers, Alfieri, Bindo, and Ernesto, sought to create a masterpiece that would elevate the brand to new heights. It was Alfieri who spearheaded the design and engineering efforts, driven by an unyielding desire to craft a vehicle that would not only mesmerize the senses but redefine the very essence of luxury sports cars. In 1957, the model project took its first definitive shape. Under the watchful eye of chief engineer Giulio Alfieri, a team of skilled craftsmen and engineers toiled tirelessly to bring Alfieri’s vision to life. Each element was meticulously crafted, from the striking exterior lines to the powerful heart that would beat within. The year 1959 marked a significant turning point for the project. Maserati enlisted the expertise of Carrozzeria Touring, an esteemed Milanese coachbuilder renowned for their innovative Superleggera construction technique. This collaboration birthed a seamless marriage of design and engineering, with the lightweight and rigid Superleggera bodywork perfectly complementing the car’s dynamic capabilities. On March 9, 1961, at the Geneva Motor Show, the Maserati 3500 GTI made its grand debut. The world held its breath as the curtain fell, revealing a masterpiece that left onlookers spellbound. The timeless elegance of the body, crafted with passion and precision, showcased the artistry of Carrozzeria Touring. The sensuous lines flowed effortlessly, each curve harmonizing with the next, capturing the essence of Italian design. Beneath the mesmerizing exterior, the car boasted technical marvels. The beating heart of the GTI was a 3.5-liter inline-six engine, engineered to perfection under the guidance of Giulio Alfieri. Its remarkable power output of 235 horsepower was complemented by a sophisticated suspension system, ensuring unrivaled performance and handling. The interior of the 3500 GTI was a testament to luxury and refinement. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, sumptuous leather upholstery and fine wood accents cocooned passengers in opulence. The melding of comfort and style created an ambiance that transported occupants to a world of unparalleled luxury, a sanctuary on wheels. As the 3500 GTI roared onto the roads, it captured the imagination of drivers and critics worldwide. The automotive press hailed it as a groundbreaking achievement, praising its remarkable performance, breathtaking design, and uncompromising quality. The model was not just a car; it was a testament to the unwavering dedication and boundless creativity of its creators.

The 1964 model year

Source: JD Classic

The exterior of the 1964 edition of the model remained true to its timeless design language, captivating onlookers with its graceful and harmonious lines. The long, sinuous bonnet stretched elegantly, leading the eye to the distinctive brand’s trident adorning the grille. The sleek chrome accents and gracefully flared fenders accentuated its sporty allure, while the iconic triple air vents on the front fenders added a touch of aggression to its refined aesthetics. The 1964 model year brought forth a few subtle exterior refinements, further enhancing the car’s allure. Maserati introduced new color options, allowing owners to personalize their 3500 GTI to their unique tastes. Whether bathed in a classic shade of Rosso Bologna or the gleaming brilliance of Argento Auteuil, the 1964 GTI effortlessly commanded attention wherever it ventured. Stepping into the opulent interior of the 1964 edition was akin to entering a realm of unparalleled luxury. The cabin enveloped passengers in an ambiance of refined elegance, showcasing the brand’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Supple leather upholstery, meticulously stitched by skilled artisans, cocooned occupants in sumptuous comfort, while the availability of various color schemes allowed for personalized expression. Every detail of the interior was thoughtfully considered, from the polished wood trim to the exquisite instrumentation. The dashboard, adorned with a plethora of gauges, provided vital information to the discerning driver, ensuring a harmonious connection between man and machine. The tastefully appointed controls and switchgear exuded a sense of purpose and precision, embodying the marriage of performance and luxury. Beneath its alluring exterior, the 1964 version continued to impress with its technical prowess. The beating heart of this grand tourer remained the 3.5-liter inline-six engine, meticulously engineered to deliver exhilarating performance. With an output of 235 horsepower, the car roared to life, propelling drivers to exhilarating speeds and delivering a symphony of mechanical harmony. The engine’s refined power was complemented by a smooth-shifting four-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to extract every ounce of performance and enjoy the art of driving. The 1964 model year introduced subtle improvements to the suspension and handling, enhancing the driving experience. Maserati’s unwavering commitment to dynamic excellence shone through, allowing drivers to conquer winding roads with confidence and finesse. The GTI effortlessly balanced the exhilaration of a sports car with the comfort and poise of a grand tourer, creating an unrivaled driving experience that was both invigorating and refined.

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Source: Classic Trader

The 1964 model was presented as a gift to Italian President Antonio Segni by the Shah of Iran during Shah’s state visit to Italy. This unique gesture highlighted the significance and prestige associated with the brand.

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The 3500 GT was the first production model of Maserati, which allowed the brand to cope with financial difficulties in the late 50s.

Source: Car Pixel

Under the leadership of chief engineer Giulio Alfieri, a prototype four-seater two-door sports coupe called the Maserati 3500 GT was constructed and introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1957. This was Maserati’s debut in conventional road cars, following the release of exclusively racing cars. The car’s body was developed by Touring studio (Milan). Moreover, the vehicle was released until 1964, with a total of 1983 3500 GTs produced. Interestingly, this car was purchased mainly by people from high society: among the most remarkable owners of this automobile were the Prince of Monaco – Rainier III, Anthony Quinn, and Alberto Sordi. Outwardly, the 3500 GT was magnificent – the long body was somewhat reminiscent of the American aero style. In a word, it was a respectful automobile for a respectful owner. As mentioned earlier, the car became a lifeline for Maserati, saving the company from bankruptcy. In the first year, 119 cars were sold, and by 1961, the 500th car was sold.

The origins

Source: Sports Car Market

In 1957, Maserati was in a miserable financial situation because of the grand spending on the racing program. Adolfo Orsi (owner of the company) decided to focus on successful cars that were popular on the market, which at the time, demanded large vehicles, combining high-end racing design with grace, luxury, and quality. Thus, the 3500 GT model appeared. The debut took place at the Geneva Motor Show. The automobile was positioned as the successor to the A6G model and was a mixture of a road and racing car. The creation process was based on the company’s experience with sports models’ constructions. The works on the experimental bodies were entrusted to several well-known Italian coachbuilders. However, for the Geneva Motor Show, there were two – Allemano and Touring studios. After studying the reaction of the public, the company opted for the Touring studio’s version, which used their patented ultra-light bodywork system, though in an improved version. Sure, the art of tinsmiths, hand-knocking out body parts, yielded to stamping panels with a press, however, did not affect the traditionally high quality of the Touring products, as well as the expressive and at the same time discreet design. In addition to Touring and Allemano, other leading studios such as Frua, Bertone, Ghia, and Vignale offered their body options. However, most of these versions remained single samples, only the coupe, and Spyder from Vignale (designed by Michelotti) were produced in small series – on a base shortened from 2600 to 2500 mm.

1961 model year

Source: Pixel

In 1961, the vehicle was equipped with the Lucas mechanical fuel injection system, which allowed the company to add the letters GTI to the name of the 3500. Thus, the 3500 GT became the first Italian car to be equipped with a fuel injection system. The power was increased to 235 hp, and the maximum speed of the model was 240 km/h. A more “charged” sports version of the engine developed up to 270 hp and accelerated the lightweight vehicle to 250 km/h. Unlike all previous road cars, the 3500 GT had a high-quality interior finish and elaboration of all design details. For this, Giulio Alfieri, the chief designer of the company, spent a lot of time studying the best models from British manufacturers. The result was a two-door body concept with ample interior space for two full-size front seats and two child seats in the rear. The salon was distinguished by functionality and moderate luxury. One of its important advantages was an excellent all-around view. Thanks to the Maserati 3500 GT, the company managed to get out of the financial hardships rather quickly.

Did you know?

The GTI index (from the Italian “Gran Turismo Iniezione”) – meant that the automobile was equipped with injection, which appeared on the 1961 Maserati 3500  GTI for the first time. 

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