Maserati Mistral classic cars for sale

History of the Maserati Mistral

The Maserati Mistral debuted at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, initially as the 3500 GTI 2Posti before adopting the Mistral name in 1966—beginning a tradition of naming Maseratis after winds. The car was developed by Giulio Alfieri to challenge luxury GTs like the Jaguar E-Type, using a shortened tubular chassis derived from the successful 3500GT and Sebring models. Its elegant body, designed by Pietro Frua and built by Maggiora (Coupé) or Vignale (Spider), mixed steel and aluminium for reduced weight. Production started in 1964, with only around 951 built (827–828 Coupé, 120–125 Spider). The Mistral was discontinued in 1970, with no immediate successor, as the new Ghibli began to take focus in Maserati’s line-up.

Model History

The Mistral succeeded the Maserati 3500 GT/GTI and was the final Maserati to use the celebrated straight-six engine—directly developed from engines used in 250F Formula 1 cars. Over its life, the Mistral was available with three engine displacements: 3.5, 3.7, and 4.0 litres (the latter especially valued today). Notably, after the Mistral, Maserati transitioned to V8 engines in subsequent models such as the Ghibli. The Mistral was built in both Coupé and Spider forms, the latter being bodied by Vignale with some design input from Giovanni Michelotti. Each configuration was distinctly Maserati, tailored for discerning GT buyers who valued performance and luxury.

Highlights and Key Features

The Mistral introduced a harmonious blend of sporty handling and luxurious comfort. Notable features include a five-speed ZF manual gearbox, Lucas mechanical fuel injection (rare among its contemporaries), and four-wheel disc brakes—well ahead of its time. Spyders and some Coupés feature aluminium panels for weight savings. The deluxe cabin was finished in Connolly leather, Wilton carpets, and housed a prominent cluster of Jaeger and Lucas instruments. Options included air-conditioning, Borrani wire wheels, electric windows, rare original aluminium hardtops, and period-correct colours such as Azzurro Chiaro and Rosso Rubino. Only around 1,000 were built, making supply extremely limited and the Spider especially rare. The Mistral represents 100% of both Maserati supply and demand on Classic Trader for this series, underlining its significant collector interest.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Unique Models

The 4.0-litre Mistral variants are especially valued for their increased power and rarity, particularly among Spiders—only 37 were built. Spiders could be specified with a removable aluminium hardtop (of which only about a dozen are known), making such examples highly sought after. Factory options such as original Borrani wire wheels, distinctive factory paint and trim combinations, and period air-conditioning elevate specific cars to collectible status. Right-hand drive Spiders are among the rarest Mistrals, with only 12 made.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Key weaknesses centre on the complex straight-six engine—especially the original multi-layer head gasket and Lucas fuel injection system. The injection can suffer from fuel leaking past deteriorated seals into the oil circuit; many Mistrals have been converted to carburettors as a result. Regular valve clearance adjustment and comprehensive engine rebuilds are expensive. Chassis rust is a major concern, especially where steel and aluminium panels meet; check floorpans, sills, and subframes. Some body parts are now unobtainable and require custom fabrication. The ZF manual gearbox is robust but suffers from deteriorating parts for second and third gear engagement. Ageing electrical systems and worn interiors often require full restoration, which is intricate and costly. Many cars have patchy service records; only buy with thorough documentation and evidence of proper maintenance.

Engine, Performance, Transmission, and Handling

The Maserati Mistral is the last Maserati to use the classic double-cam, twin-spark straight-six, capable of 235–255 PS, depending on engine size. The 4.0-litre hits up to 255 km/h and does 0–100 km/h in about 6 seconds—impressive for the late 1960s. Flexible power delivery, strong torque, and the raspy straight-six sound define the driving experience. Steering is direct, braking is reliable for the era, and thanks to relatively low weight and optimal weight distribution, handling is nimble on winding roads. Suspension is a mix of sophistication and period compromise: independent at the front, live axle at the rear (leaf springs), tuned for both comfort and high-speed stability. Most desirable: Mistral Spider 4.0L (only 37 produced), especially with original aluminium hardtop and matching numbers. Coupés with original Lucas injection, Borrani wheels, and rare colour/trim combinations also command attention among collectors.

Design: Interior, Comfort, Exterior, Features

Pietro Frua’s design for the Coupé blends a long, sleek bonnet with a fastback rear and generous glass area—delivering an airy cabin with excellent visibility. The Spider, with coachwork by Vignale, retains these proportions in a more open, sculptural form. Interiors are finished in Connolly leather, Wilton carpets, and an instrument panel wrapped in black leather, crowned by Mahogany or walnut EFFPI wood steering wheels and Jaeger dials. Options included air-conditioning, reclining seats, period Fiat/Maserati radio, coloured glass, and stainless-steel trim. Carpeting is custom-made, and details like chrome controls, concealed stitching, or tailored luggage solutions recall bespoke gran turismo traditions. Factory paint choices were expansive and interior/exterior colour-matched, adding to the vehicle’s individuality.

Other Noteworthy Features

Mistral models often feature period-correct accessories such as Borrani wire wheels, original tool kits, and detailed factory documentation sets—Maserati Classiche certification or Certificate of Origin are highly valued by collectors. Some Spiders came with rare removable hardtops and special Recaro seats. The original exhaust system, dimmable rear-view mirror, and unique centre-console clock are further period touches appreciated by connoisseurs.

Summary

The Maserati Mistral embodies the crossover between technical innovation and 1960s gran turismo luxury. It stands out as the final Maserati developed around the six-cylinder racing engine, paired with bespoke Italian design, technical sophistication, and rare production numbers—especially for Spiders and original specification models. For collectors or drivers seeking a distinctively engineered Italian GT, with strong provenance and period authenticity, the Maserati Mistral remains a benchmark in the classic car world.