Rare Maserati heads class of ‘61

A Maserati 3500GT, believed to be the only race trim model of its type in the UK, is one of three models from 1961 leading the motorsport charge at the forthcoming Race Retro Sale.

Estimated at between £37,500 and £45,000, this model was rebuilt for racing in 1983 where it campaigned with FIA papers before being imported to the UK. It has current FIA papers for Period E 1947 – 1961 Class GTS7.

Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “This Maserati is absolutely stunning and befitting an auction which is packed with a diverse and exciting collection of race cars.”

It’s also not for the fainthearted as it includes a close ratio 5-speed ZF gearbox, capable of handling the 213bhp. Lap times recorded by the current owner include Silverstone’s National Circuit in 1:16.4, Donington in 1:34.0 and Cadwell in 1:58.0.

In addition, this particular model is also eligible for the Carol Spagg pre ’63 GT Series.

Other competition car lots of note from the same year include a 1961 Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports Replica Race Car estimated at between £55,000 to £65,000, and a 1961 Porsche 356 B Super Historic Road Rally Car.

Nick said: “We’ve got three tremendous models from 1961, each offering something different. From a couple of super-fast race cars to a great rally example of that era, it would seem that the very early sixties has produced some class acts!”

The Race Retro and Classic Car Sale takes place at the Race Retro International Historic Motorsport Show, Europe’s premier historic racing event, which is held from the 24thto 26thFebruary at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

Viewing of the lots at Race Retro is all day on the Friday (24th) and until lunchtime on the Saturday (25th), when bidding commences. Also under the hammer will be classic and race cars, motorcycles and automobilia.

Anyone interested in attending the sale will be required to purchase an auction catalogue.

Auction catalogues are available online at silverstoneauctions.com.

For further information about Race Retro visit raceretro.com.