Maserati 3500 GTI classic cars for sale

History of the Maserati 3500 GTI

First unveiled in 1961, the Maserati 3500 GTI marked a breakthrough for Maserati: it introduced mechanical fuel injection to a series production Maserati, notably the Lucas system. An evolution of the already successful 3500 GT, the GTI elevated not just performance but also innovation and craftsmanship, becoming a central part of the brand’s shift to refined grand tourers. Built almost entirely by hand in Italy, each 3500 GTI benefitted from careful assembly, and the cars were soon seen at international motor shows from Geneva to London. Production ran until around 1964, with the 3500 GTI laying foundations for future Maserati GTs with its blend of advanced engineering and unmistakable Italian style.

Model History

The 3500 GTI evolved from the beloved Maserati 3500 GT, sharing its 3.5-litre inline-six but adding mechanical Lucas fuel injection and other updates including a five-speed ZF gearbox in most examples. While formed predominantly as a coupé (Berlinetta), a rare convertible, the 'Spyder Vignale', was also produced. The model closed an era for Maserati's straight-six GTs and paved the way for V8-powered successors, such as the Maserati Sebring, reflecting a shift in Maserati’s priorities towards more modern designs and higher performance throughout the 1960s.

Highlights

The 3500 GTI introduced mechanical fuel injection – a technological leap at the time. The straight-six delivers about 173 kW (235 PS), ensuring real grand touring credentials. A Touring 'Superleggera' aluminium bodyshell on a robust steel frame reduced weight while maintaining structural integrity. Opulent interiors featured premium Connolly leather, bespoke Jaeger instruments, and extensive chrome detailing. Notable original options included Borrani wire wheels, electric windows, factory radios, and even air conditioning in select examples. Besides, signature Maserati grille cues, dual fuel tanks, and a generous boot made it as practical as it was beautiful.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While most Maserati 3500 GTIs were Berlinettas by Touring of Milan, the 'Spyder Vignale' stands out among connoisseurs as an even rarer convertible version, produced in smaller numbers. Factory options also led to several unique cars with features like air conditioning, electric windows, and particular paint or trim combinations, making some individual vehicles especially collectible.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 3.5-litre Maserati inline-six is celebrated for its smooth power delivery and robust construction. The GTI’s Lucas injection, while advanced, demands regular and expert maintenance – some owners revert to carburettors for reliability but keep all original parts for correctness. The ZF manual gearbox offers direct and positive shifts, suitable for brisk grand touring. With four disc brakes on later cars and front discs/rear drums earlier, stopping performance is strong for the era. The live rear axle and front independent suspension, combined with a 2.6-metre wheelbase, deliver stable high-speed travel and decent comfort. - Maserati 3500 GTI Coupé Touring: Standard for the series; renowned for balanced performance and luxury.

• Maserati 3500 GTI Spyder Vignale: The rare convertible variant, highly prized for its exclusivity and open-air driving experience.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Touring of Milan’s 'Superleggera' construction gives the 3500 GTI flowing lines and an elegant stance, while the signature Maserati grille and rich chrome trim reflect 1960s Italian taste. Interiors were upholstered in top-quality Connolly leather (typically black or red), with matching carpets. Jaeger gauges and extensive wood or chrome finishing underline luxury intent. Standard and period accessories included Borrani wire wheels, original radios, and electric windows. Vivid colour options like Blu Scuro, Verde Tevere, and Rosso rubino, along with a wide palette of metallic finishes, allowed customers a degree of personalisation rarely seen in large-scale production. The generous boot and comfortable cabin made it a capable tourer, not just a design statement.

Other Features

Most surviving 3500 GTIs have extensive restoration documentation and Maserati Classiche certification. Many examples are presented as 'matching numbers', confirming their authenticity. Options like twin fuel tanks and the centrally mounted exhaust underline the careful engineering and usability that define this classic.

Summary

With its mechanical expertise, elegant Touring Milan coachwork, and fine interior details, the Maserati 3500 GTI offered state-of-the-art grand touring in the early 1960s. 100% of supply and demand data for classic Maseratis with this manufacturer code relate to the 3500 GTI, confirming its singular status among enthusiasts. Distinct features, rare editions, and enduring craftsmanship continue to set apart the 3500 GTI as a reference point for Italian sports GTs of its era.