The 1961 Maserati Vignale Spyder is an elegant and rare open-top sports car, blending Maserati’s advanced engineering with Vignale’s masterful coachwork. It is based on the Maserati 3500 GT, a car that helped Maserati transition from being primarily a racing brand to producing luxurious and high-performance road cars.
Overview
- Manufacturer: Maserati
- Coachbuilder: Vignale (designed by Giovanni Michelotti)
- Production Years: 1960–1964 (Spyder variant)
- Total Units: Approximately 245 Spyders built.
- Significance: The Vignale Spyder represents one of the earliest and most iconic examples of Italian open-top grand tourers of the 1960s.
Specifications
- Engine:
- Type: 3.5-liter inline-6, DOHC, aluminum block and head.
- Output: 220–235 horsepower, depending on the configuration.
- Carburation: Three Weber carburetors (or optional Lucas mechanical fuel injection).
- Transmission:
- 4-speed manual ZF gearbox (optional 5-speed in later models).
- Optional Borg-Warner automatic transmission for select markets.
- Chassis: Tubular steel frame, based on the Maserati 3500 GT but slightly shortened for improved handling.
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent with coil springs, wishbones, and hydraulic dampers.
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and hydraulic dampers.
- Brakes: Disc brakes (introduced on later models; earlier versions had drum brakes).
Performance
- Top Speed: Around 135 mph (217 km/h).
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph in approximately 8 seconds.
- Driving Dynamics: Known for its smooth and powerful engine, the car offered refined handling and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for grand touring.
Design
- Exterior:
- Designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Vignale, the Spyder featured elegant proportions and flowing lines.
- Signature long hood and short rear deck, emphasizing the classic front-engine, rear-drive layout.
- Chrome accents, wire wheels, and a distinctive grille with the Maserati trident emblem.
- Convertible soft-top with clean integration into the bodywork.
- Interior:
- Luxurious appointments, including leather upholstery and handcrafted wood trim.
- Classic Maserati instrumentation with large dials for speed and RPM.
- Spacious cockpit for a 2-seater, emphasizing comfort and style.
Historical Context
- The Spyder was introduced as a more exclusive alternative to the Maserati 3500 GT coupe.
- Maserati’s partnership with Vignale was instrumental in producing the Spyder, which offered a unique blend of Italian craftsmanship and high-performance engineering.
- During this period, Maserati was transitioning from its racing roots to become a maker of luxury road cars, and the Vignale Spyder played a significant role in this transformation.
Legacy
- Rarity: With just 245 units produced, the 1961 Maserati Vignale Spyder is a highly collectible car.
- Value: Restored examples often sell for over $1 million at auctions, reflecting their rarity and desirability.
- Influence: The Spyder set the stage for future Maserati convertibles, combining luxury with performance in a timeless package.
Summary
The 1961 Maserati Vignale Spyder is a stunning example of 1960s Italian automotive design and engineering. With its sophisticated performance, striking design, and luxurious interior, it remains one of Maserati's most iconic models and a prized possession for collectors worldwide.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the 1961 Maserati Vignale Spyder in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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