In 1957, Maserati introduced the 3500 GT, which marked a significant milestone for the Italian car manufacturer. This model effectively transitioned Maserati from a racing car manufacturer to a road car manufacturer. While most of the 2,226 3500 GT coupes and convertibles produced between 1957 and 1964 were built with bodies by various coachbuilders, one prototype stood out as a collaboration between Maserati and Touring: the Maserati 3500 GT Superleggera Coupe Prototipo.
At the 1957 Geneva Motor Show, Maserati displayed two prototypes side by side, one with a body by Allemano and the other by Touring. Ultimately, Touring's design was preferred and used for the production model with only minor changes. The 3500 GT Superleggera Coupe Prototipo showcased a unique body design that combined Touring's signature Superleggera construction method with Maserati's classic sports car styling.
The Superleggera Coupe Prototipo's body was constructed using Touring's patented Superleggera method, which involved building a lightweight body frame out of small diameter steel tubes and fitting aluminum panels over the frame. This construction method made the car significantly lighter and more aerodynamic than its competitors.
Under the hood, the Superleggera Coupe Prototipo featured a new engine that differed from its predecessors. The 3,485cc inline-six engine was derived from the Maserati 250F Grand Prix car engine and boasted a power output of 220bhp. The engine had two spark plugs per cylinder, which helped it achieve improved performance and fuel economy.
Although only one Superleggera Coupe Prototipo was produced, it set the standard for Maserati's future production models. The 3500 GT proved a commercial success for the Italian carmaker and paved the way for developing subsequent models like the Ghibli, Bora, and Khamsin.
In conclusion, the Maserati 3500 GT Superleggera Coupe Prototipo by Touring was a revolutionary car that set the stage for Maserati's transformation into a road car manufacturer. Its combination of Touring's Superleggera construction method and Maserati's classic sports car styling produced a lightweight and aerodynamic car. However, only a prototype, the Superleggera Coupe Prototipo, was a critical step in Maserati's journey toward becoming a significant player in luxury sports cars.
Source: Maserati
