Maserati Indy – Classic Car Buying

History of the Maserati Indy

Maserati introduced the Indy prototype at the Turin Auto Show in 1968. Named to commemorate Maserati’s 1939 and 1940 Indianapolis 500 victories, the Indy was officially launched at Geneva in 1969. Its development began before Citroën acquired Maserati, making the Indy the last model completed pre-takeover. The car was based on a lengthened Ghibli chassis (extended to 2,600 mm wheelbase) and designed by Alfredo Vignale, showcasing a fastback silhouette with ample room for four adults and their luggage. The body was Maserati’s first to employ semi-monocoque (unitized) construction, marking a technical milestone for the brand.

Model History and Evolution

The Indy’s production span from 1969 to 1975 saw three key engine variations: the early cars (Indy 4200) with a 4.2-litre V8, followed by the 4.7-litre (Indy 4700) in 1970, and finally the Indy 4900 with a 4.9-litre V8 from 1971. Only 364 cars were built with the 4.7L, and some 300-plus of the 4.9L, with a special 'Indy America' variant targeting US and European buyers. The total production run amounted to just 1,104 examples, making the Indy one of Maserati’s more significant commercial successes of the period. The Indy had no direct successor, with its blend of performance and practicality unmatched in Maserati’s later range.

Highlights and Special Features

The Maserati Indy combined purposeful grand touring ability with everyday usability. Its 2+2 seating and spacious luggage compartment made it one of few Italian sports cars genuinely suited for four-person travel. V8 power was paired with either a ZF five-speed manual or (optionally) a Borg-Warner three-speed automatic. Pop-up headlamps, tinted glass (from 1973), and high-quality materials were standard. Notably, the Indy was the first Maserati to feature a unitized semi-monocoque body for increased rigidity.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Notable Variants

Special versions of the Indy include the ‘Indy America’, specified for North America and certain European markets, distinguished by standard power steering and (in later years) a 4.9L V8. Interior upgrades from 1970 included integrated headrests, redesigned dashboards and improved comfort features. Unique paint colours such as ‘Rosso Cordoba’, ‘Blu’, and ‘Bronzo Metallic’, and factory options like Borrani wire wheels or Blaupunkt radio, further added to the individuality of these cars.

Engine, Performance and Driving Characteristics

The Maserati Indy’s V8 range offered robust performance: the 4.2L managed up to 247 km/h, covering 0–100 km/h in about 8.2 seconds (as tested by Auto Motor und Sport in 1970). The 4.9L variant could reach approximately 265 km/h. The ZF five-speed manual gearbox provided direct engagement, while the Borg-Warner automatic (on request) catered to those prioritising comfort. Four-wheel disc brakes and precise hydraulic steering delivered balanced handling, although the live rear axle (inherited from the Ghibli) was regarded as dated even at launch. Ride quality and cabin quietness stood out at higher speeds, making the Indy a genuine cross-continental GT. Key variants:

1. Indy 4200 (4.2L V8, 260 PS) – Known for early styling purity and solid touring performance.
2. Indy 4700 (4.7L V8, 290 PS, 364 produced) – Sought for improved acceleration.
3. Indy 4900 (4.9L V8, 320 PS, ~300 produced) – Fastest and most technically advanced form, favoured by enthusiasts.
4. Indy America – Enhanced for export markets, notable for comfort upgrades and emissions adaptations.

Design, Interior and Features

Designed by Alfredo Vignale, the Indy’s shape is defined by its flowing fastback roofline and low nose with distinctive pop-up headlights. Inside, the car featured full leather upholstery (beige, black or brown), adjustable steering columns, and well-trimmed dashboards with Maserati branding and classic Veglia dials. The rear passenger compartment offers authentic four-adult seating, an unusual feature for an Italian sports coupe of its class. Options included air conditioning, Borrani wire wheels, Alloy wheels, a Maserati-branded radio, and tinted windows. Details like a wood-veneer steering wheel, foglamps, power windows, integrated armrests, and period-correct clock underscore luxury and craftsmanship.

Other Noteworthy Features

Indy models often feature comprehensive documentation, two original keys, and sometimes the Maserati Classiche certificate or ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) homologation, reaffirming originality and historical value. The model was sold both in Europe and the US, resulting in a mix of specification levels and available factory options.

Summary

The Maserati Indy remains a rare Italian GT, distinct for its blend of V8 driving dynamics, practical four-seat cabin, and refined Vignale styling. Appreciated by collectors seeking an Italian sports car that accommodates four in genuine comfort, the Indy’s limited production and technical innovations mark it out in Maserati history.