Words: Jonathan Wells
There are certain cars on our roads that should be classics. We can all point out a DB5, a Daytona or an E-Type as they roar by, but other cars — which leave us lost us words — are harder to identify. They might be limited editions from decades past, small run models from lesser-known manufacturers or modified beyond recognition, but they disappear into our rear view mirrors unidentified.
This sleek sports car is one such elusive machine. It could blast past and we’d be none the wiser what year it was made, or who’s production line it rolled off. And more’s the pity, for the Maserati A6G/2000 Berlinetta Zagato is one of the most beautiful cars you’re ever likely to spot.
Set for the RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale, this extremely rare car was born in 1956, intended for racing and completely hand-built. That’s right, each of the aluminium panels were hand-hammered to perfection by the coach builders at Zagato over half a century ago — and look just as good today as they did then.
Of course, the car has seen an extensive 7000 hour restoration ahead of its sale, for which the seller is asking for a price in the region of $4,250,000 – $5,250,00. Powered by an alloy 2-litre, inline-six engine, each component is nonetheless, from the gearbox to the chassis.
Speaking of the chassis, this is no. 2124 from Maserati, the factory demonstrator that stormed around the course of the 1956 Mille Miglia at the hands of driver Luigi Taramazzo. It was the first time the car showed its true potential, with a life of successful racing in private events ahead of it.
And, just three years ago, it returned to Italy to secure First in Class at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este — proof, if ever it were needed, that this was a machine built to steal hearts, win awards and turn heads for years to come.
Want more classics? This vintage Alfa Romeo is your chance to feel like a retro racer…
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