Maserati 3500 GT

The heyday of the post-war European economy was reflected in the condition of the roads. Everywhere, in the mid-50s, the reconstruction of old highways and the construction of new ones were carried out.

This, of course, served as a catalyst for the development of the automotive industry and, in particular, GT class cars.

With over 30 years of experience building race cars, Maserati set out to create a large car that combines the features of high-end racing design with the refinement, luxury and quality demanded by the newly emerging luxury car market.

The superb inline six-cylinder engine was taken from the Maserati 350 S racing car. Derated for road use and reliability, this dual-ignition powerplant produced 220 hp and a decent 343 Nm of torque.

Photo: "Maserati" by racin jason

Paired with a four-speed gearbox, the engine was housed in a specially designed tubular chassis.

Unlike all previous road cars produced by Maserati and which had truly spartan equipment, the new Maserati 3500 GT had to have a high-quality interior finish and elaboration of all design details.

To this end, Giulio Alfieri, the company's chief designer, 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.

Work on the creation of experimental bodies was entrusted to several well-known Italian coachbuilders.

For display at the Geneva Motor Show in 1957, the works of two studios - Allemano and Touring were chosen, and after studying the reaction of the public, Maserati chose the excellent work of Touring.

Photo: "1960 Maserati 3500 GT coupe - white - fvl" by Rex Gray

Serial production started at the end of the year, and at the beginning of 1958 the first cars entered dealerships.

Specifications and Performance

The car is equipped with Girling disc brakes on all wheels, a five-speed gearbox and a 220 hp engine with 3 Weber 42 DCOE carburetors.

Maserati 3500 GT can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 137 mph (220 kph). See other specification and performance data in the following tables.

Impressive Interior

The interior of the car is impressive, with luxurious leather seats and a spacious cabin. The dashboard is beautifully designed, with a large speedometer and tachometer taking center stage.

The elegant three-spoke steering wheel stands out, and a special detail is the handrail in front of the passenger seat.

Photo: "File:Maserati 3500 GT interior - Flick - Concorso Italiano 2004.jpg" by Craig Howell from San Carlos, CA, USA

Celebrity Owners

Over the years, many famous people have owned a Maserati 3500 GT, cementing its status as an icon of automotive history.

Here are just a few of the celebrities who have been proud owners of this marvelous machine.

Famous American actors Dean Martin, Tony Curtis and Rock Hudson, then, Elizabeth Taylor, an English-American actress, a true icon of her time.

Interestingly, the famous Liz was not very happy with this car, so it ended up in the hands of Anthony Quinn, who was a serious car lover.

Photo by Mathieu Heurtault

This gold Maserati 3500 GT was auctioned in 2016 and sold for a whopping $572,000. (Auction in Pebble Beach, CA, USA)

And what exactly didn't Liz like? Well, when she got the car as a Christmas present from her husband Eddie Fisher, she drove it for only fifteen minutes, gave him the key back, and said she didn't like the way it drove—she literally said she hated the way it drove. She reportedly added that she would rather ride a horse than sit behind the wheel of that car.

Liz never drove the car again, and Fisher soon sold it to actor and car enthusiast Anthony Quinn.

We will also mention the British actor Stewart Granger, Prince Rainier III of Monaco as well as Mexican President Adolfo Lopez.

Maserati 3500GT in Today's Market

This classic beauty, produced from 1957 to 1964, is a head-turner even by today's standards. But what does this automotive piece of art cost in today's market? Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions – because the price range is, shall we say, variable.

Classic cars are anything but predictable in terms of pricing. Condition and originality can influence the price dramatically. Think of it like dating: a slightly rusted but charming classic might be a steal, while a perfectly restored showstopper will cost you an arm and a leg (and possibly a kidney).

Condition / Estimated Price Range (USD)
Project car: $20,000 - $50,000
Driver-quality: $50,000 - $150,000
Concours-ready: $150,000+

Finding a Maserati 3500 GT is a bit like hunting for a unicorn – rare and elusive, but oh-so-worth-the-effort. Take a look at the sales graph over the last five years:

Before you start envisioning yourself cruising down the coast in your newly acquired Italian stallion, consider these crucial factors:

Mechanical Condition: These beautiesare old. Parts can be expensive and difficult to find. Budget for significant maintenance and restoration costs.
Restoration Costs: A full restoration can easily surpass the initial purchase price.
Insurance: Insuring a classic car is different from insuring a modern vehicle. Expect higher premiums.

FAQs:

Q: Can I buy a Maserati 3500 GT with my weekly grocery budget? A: Unless your grocery budget involves several hundred thousand dollars, absolutely not.
Q: Where can I find one? A: Online classic car marketplaces, auctions (e.g., RM Sotheby's, Gooding & Company), and specialized classic car dealers.
Q: What are the common issues? A: Electrical gremlins, rust (especially in body panels), and potential engine problems are all possibilities.

Before you leap into the exciting (and potentially expensive) world of classic Maserati ownership, remember: 1) Thorough inspections are crucial. 2) Due diligence is paramount. 3) Be prepared to fall madly in love.

Final Words

The Maserati 3500 GT is a classic car that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its unique blend of style, power, and luxury makes it a timeless classic that will always be in demand.

From 1957 to 1964, 2,226 units of this beautiful car were produced.