Words: Jonathan Wells
There are few Italian grand tourers with as much history and success below their bonnets as the Maserati 3500 series. First hitting the road in 1957, this line of inimitably Italian cars marked Maserati’s first successful run at the American Gran Turismo market — and set the blueprint for many of their motors to come.
One such of these cars was the Maserati Sebring Coupé. The final manifestation of the landmark 3500 series, the sports car debuted at Salone dell’automobile di Torino in 1963, and went on to become one of the most treasured and revered Maseratis of all time.
Only 348 Series I Sebrings were built between 1962 and 1965 and this blazing red example is one of them, a 1964 set of wheels currently up for auction at Bonhams.
Styled by Carrozzeria Vignale, and boasting a five-speed gearbox, four-wheel disc brakes and air conditioning, this model is typical of the Sebrings that shifted Italian carmaking up a gear — and were the first to truly conquer America.
Up for auction at the end of the month, at Chateau de Chantilly in northern France, this Sebring was delivered new to the USA over 50 years ago — and remained there until it was sent to France in 2014 for restoration.
Finished in a striking red and with a beautifully patinated blue leather interior, it’s a true piece of automotive history — from the charming band radio tuner to those intricate wire wheels. And whose garage isn’t in need of a shot of boldly coloured, chrome-trimmed, authentically Italian style?
Want a more British set of wheels? You’re in luck — for the iconic Land Rover Defender rides again…
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