A stunning 1959 Maserati 3500GT, meticulously restored by the renowned Touring Superleggera coachbuilder with support from Maserati Classiche, took center stage at the prestigious Rétromobile 2025 show. This particular 3500GT, originally destined for the California market, boasts a unique and captivating history, having been owned by the esteemed Dodge family for decades. Its recent restoration is a true celebration of Italian automotive artistry and heritage.
This exceptional model retains all its original functional components, and its historical continuity has been meticulously documented, ensuring its unique and authentic identification. Fully restored in the Touring Superleggera workshop, this iconic grand tourer has been returned to its original splendor. The celebrated Milan coachbuilder, with the technical and documentary support of Maserati Classiche, undertook the meticulous restoration process.
Maserati Classiche’s Restoration Assistance Service played a crucial role, meticulously checking and validating every component of the vehicle. This included the chassis, engine and engine compartment, transmission, suspension, brakes, wheels, and tires. The bodywork, both interior and exterior, along with the colors and materials, were thoroughly inspected and authenticated. The electrical system and all accessories also underwent rigorous scrutiny. The exceptional craftsmanship and inherent value of Touring Superleggera’s restoration services were clearly evident in the finished product.
Upon completion of the restoration, the 3500GT was awarded the coveted Certification of Authenticity by Maserati Classiche. This prestigious certification followed more than 300 technical verifications against the Maserati Historical Archives, confirming the car’s conformity with the original factory drawings and specifications.
The Maserati Classiche program plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich automotive heritage of the House of the Trident. This exclusive service is dedicated to Maserati customers and collectors, offering a range of services, including the rigorous Certification of Authenticity process. This certification process is overseen by a committee of experts and is available for Maserati cars over 20 years old, as well as special series models, including more recent classics like the MC12 and limited-edition Quattroporte models. The program also provides servicing capabilities and an on-demand Car Detailing service, all conducted in-house.
Maserati Classiche works closely with collectors and customers, providing support for the preservation of their vehicles and ensuring that every detail of a restoration conforms precisely to the original factory specifications. A dedicated service plan is available for owners of Classic, Youngtimer, and Special cars, covering various maintenance and restoration needs. One of Maserati Classiche’s key functions is the remanufacturing of replacement parts that are no longer commercially available. These parts are created following the original factory drawings and utilizing the best modern technologies, ensuring improved reliability and functionality without compromising the original appearance.
The Maserati 3500GT, produced between 1957 and 1964, holds a significant place in Maserati’s history as the brand’s first road car to be produced on a larger scale. The elegant and iconic aluminum body, designed by Carrozzeria Touring, was constructed using their patented Superleggera technology, which involved attaching lightweight aluminum panels to a tubular frame. The low and sleek body, with its simple front end, chrome bumpers, and lightweight aluminum construction, resulted in a car weighing just 1,300 kg. These characteristics perfectly define the Italian gran turismo style.
The 3500GT’s six-cylinder engine was derived from the 1956 350S race car, offering excellent torque at low engine speeds. In 1961, the original triple Weber carburetors were replaced by a Lucas fuel injection system, boosting power to 235 CV (3500GTI). The four-speed gearbox (later a five-speed from 1960) was manufactured by ZF, while other components were sourced from the best suppliers of the era. Front disc brakes became available as an option in 1959. In the same year, a spider version, designed by Giovanni Michelotti, joined the coupe in the model lineup.
In addition to the featured 3500GT on the Touring Superleggera stand (Stand K-068, Pavilion 1), Maserati also showcased three other prestigious models at Rétromobile 2025 on the Maserati Schumacher Paris dealer’s stand (Stand B062, Pavilion 2): the MC12 Corsa Blu Victory, the new GT2 Stradale, and an exclusive MC20 Cielo Blu Victory. Rétromobile, the world’s leading international classic car show, took place from February 4th to 9th, 2025, at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center in Paris.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1959 Maserati 3500GT
- Coachbuilder: Touring Superleggera
- Engine: 6-cylinder (derived from 350S race car)
- Transmission: 4-speed (later 5-speed) ZF
- Features: Superleggera aluminum body, Lucas fuel injection (later 3500GTI), Disc brakes (optional)
- Restoration: By Touring Superleggera with Maserati Classiche support
- Certification: Maserati Classiche Certificate of Authenticity
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: Maserati
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
