Description
Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire
Viewing: Tues 8th April from 12pm
Auction: Wed 9th April from 9am
Location: IWM Duxford Airfield, Cambridge CB22 4QR
1966 Maserati Quattroporte
Estimate
£45, 000 - £55, 000
Registration No: T. B. A
Chassis No: AM107. 1108
MOT: Exempt
Understood to have been registered new in Switzerland before being resident in Italy until 2006
Subject to a photo documented engine overhaul, which was completed at 60, 100kms in 2007
Subject to a cosmetic overhaul in 2020
Offered with extensive history file including original Maserati documentation
Introduced at the November 1963 Turin Salon, the Maserati Quattroporte was arguably the world's first 'super saloon'. A bold move on the part of the Casa del Tridente-owning Orsi family, the newcomer was part high-performance GT and part luxury limousine. Taking inspiration from the Maserati 5000GT he had penned for Prince Karim Aga Khan in 1961, Pietro Frua imbued the handsome Quattroporte with a low belt line, slim-pillared glasshouse and neatly defined yet spacious boot. Based around a unique sheet steel box-section chassis equipped with independent front suspension, a de Dion rear axle and four-wheel disc brakes, the four- / five-seater was powered by a race-bred 4136cc 'quad-cam' V8 engine allied to either five-speed ZF manual or three-speed Borg Warner automatic transmission. Credited with developing some 260bhp and 267lbft, the Maserati was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in around 8 seconds and over 140mph (depending upon the final drive ratio chosen).
After the first few cars had been made, Quattroporte production was transferred from Carrozzeria Frua to Carrozzeria Vignale (though, Maggiora of Turin was responsible for fabricating the bodywork). Arriving in 1966, the updated Series II version (or Tipo 107A as it was known by the factory) sported a new quad-headlamp visage and revamped interior complete with lustrous wood cappings, electric windows and standard fit air-conditioning. While, under the skin a revised leaf-sprung Salisbury back axle resulted in a quieter, smoother ride. Stylish, fast and exclusive, the big Maser was driven by the likes of Marcello Mastroianni, Prince Rainier of Monaco and Conte Volpi di Misurata.
Manufactured during October 1966, chassis AM107. 1108 is an early Series II car that was specified with the desirable five-speed ZF manual gearbox. Finished in the stunning combination of Beige Mirabello Metallic matched to Marrone Connolly leather upholstery, it is thought to have been supplied new to Switzerland. Known to have been resident in Milan by February 1972 and to have relocated to Modena eight years later, the Maserati reputedly had three keepers prior to being acquired, and imported to the UK, by its previous owner during 2006. Treated to a thorough engine overhaul not long afterwards at an indicated 60, 100km, the V8 was fitted with new piston rings, bearing shells and timing chains as well as having attention paid to its oil pump and cylinder head. Gaining a new Kevlar clutch and refaced flywheel at the same time (with the associated machining work being done by Crosthwaite and Gardiner), the four-seater also had its carburettors adjusted. Well maintained thereafter, the Quattroporte was invited by Maserati UK to form part of its stand at the 2011 Goodwood Revival Earls Court Motor Show re-enactment. The front suspension and steering were refurbished in 2018 and the car repainted in its original hue during 2020. Benefiting from a replacement Marelli distributor in 2023, that same year saw the four-seater cosmetically enhanced still further with sundry trim and glass pieces. Starting readily and running well during our recent photography session, it is rated by the vendor as being in ‘very good overall’ condition. Pleasingly retaining its original, and well preserved, upholstery, the Quattroporte now shows some 76, 000km to its odometer. Currently undergoing a cherished number plate transfer (the registration ‘1688 D’ shown in the photos is being retained), chassis 1108 is offered for sale with original owners’ handbook, Maserati leather wallet, numerous receipts, CD of engine refurbishment images and copies of the Italian registration documents.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
