1962 MASERATI SEBRING 3500 GTI SERIES I

This Maserati Sebring Series I is a remarkably rare and numbers-matching 1960s Italian GT, benefiting from a recent cosmetic restoration and mechanical overhaul. Under the bonnet is the race-derived 3.5-litre ‘Tipo AM101’ straight-six with fuel injection, producing around 235bhp, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 46,103 miles.

Revealed at the 1962 Geneva motor show, the ‘Coupe S’ referenced the Sebring circuit in the US, where Maserati had taken the top two spots on the podium for the 12-hour race in 1957, with legendary drivers Juan Manuel Fangio, Stirling Moss, Jean Behra and Harry Schell. Its tubular chassis featured coil-sprung front suspension, and it was fitted with Girling disc brakes all round.

An original UK-market car, this right-hand drive example is believed to be one of just 10 such Series I cars built, of which only five are thought to survive. It was first registered in November 1962, and there are only four previous keepers on the log book.

It is understood that this 3500 GTi ‘Coupe S’ left the factory finished in Rosso Cordoba - as it is presented in today - which is described on early copies of the original buff log book as ‘Opalescent Maroon’. The car was first registered in 1962 by Coombs and Sons of Guildford on the distinctive registration ‘50 PK’, and was initially retained as a demonstrator. It was sold to its first private owner around one year later.

Sometime later, the car was temporarily exported to Jersey, before coming back to the UK in 1990 into the collection of a gentleman in Yorkshire. It was subsequently treated to a comprehensive restoration with Maserati specialist Corley Motors. This included a full respray in a lighter red hue, as well as a re-trim of the cabin. The engine was completely overhauled, along with the fuel injection system, suspension and other mechanical components. Its refurbishment was concluded in 1992, and the Sebring was maintained by Corley Motors for the rest of the decade.

The car has been in two other private collections since then, and has always been kept in fine mechanical order, ready to take out and enjoy at a moment’s notice. In 2016, it was inspected by DK Engineering, and was then put through a cosmetic restoration that included returning the car to its original Rosso Cordoba colour. DK Engineering also carried out a detailed mechanical overhaul, with the total cost of the refurbishment coming to around £100,000.

Today, the bodywork and paint presents in superb order, as you would expect given the recent rejuvenation. The shut lines and panel gaps present very well, and the deep and glossy maroon hue is a perfect match for the glamorous styling. All of the brightwork is in great shape as the photo gallery shows, and it retains the correct badging throughout. The wire wheels are also in excellent condition.

Inside, there is tan leather upholstery that complements the exterior very well indeed, and it is in wonderful condition. There is a handsome patinated appearance to the finish in places, but no rips or tears, and no unsightly discolouration. The wood grain dashboard panel and chromed instruments gives the car a fantastic period ambience, and overall the cabin is a seriously stylish place to be - and be seen.

It is reported to be in strong mechanical condition following its recent overhaul, and is a rewarding car to drive on the road, wringing out its race-bred straight-six through the involving manual transmission.

While exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, this Sebring was last put through an inspection on 8 June 2015 at 45,992 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories.

This Maserati Sebring 3500 GTI is a stunning example of a car that epitomises 1960s style, not to mention the marque’s unmistakable blend of sporting luxury. A ‘matching numbers’ car with known provenance, this is a rare right-hand drive example that would make a fine addition to any collection. It offers superb value compared to many of its rivals from the same era, and is presented in restored, on-the-button condition.

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