1962 Maserati Sebring (Vignale)

SEBRING 3.5, 1962-1968

The 2+2 coupé entered production the following year alongside the regular 3500 GT with a number of small aesthetic modifications. The chassis was similar to that of the 3500 GT spyder, at 2.5 metres long.

Lucas direct fuel injection was fitted as standard, denoted by the model’s 3500 GTI S title, before the Sebring moniker of the initial prototype became widely adopted. Sportier than the 3500 GT, the Sebring was intended as an occasional 2-plus-2-seater with a simple bench seat in the rear. The engine had 235 hp on tap, generating speeds in excess of 145 mph. Disc brakes came as standard whereas the automatic gearbox was an option.

SEBRING 3.7, 1965-1968

The 3.7 litre power unit, first introduced with the Mistral, was now available in the Sebring, alongside a 4 litre version (see Sebring 4.0). Power was up from 220 to 245 hp.

Stylistically, the modifications included a restyled front end with a chrome plate housing the double headlights, a new bonnet intake and the side vents were now located higher up on the front wings. Wire wheels were still available upon request. A combined total of 245 second series Sebrings were assembled.

SEBRING 4.0, 1966-1969

With 265 hp the level of performance was impressive, as attested by the 255 kph top speed (158 mph).

Stylistically, the modifications included a restyled front end with a chrome plate housing the double headlights, a new bonnet intake and side vents now located higher up on the front wings. The new tail lights were reminiscent of those on the Quattroporte, creating a strong rear-end resemblance. Internally the car was also revised and air conditioning was now available. A combined total of 245 second series Sebring were assembled and in 1969 the last four examples rolled of the assembly line, production having understandably decreased following the launch of the Ghibli two years earlier.

Amongst the original 593 Sebring owners (including both series) was a young Italian tenor named Luciano Pavarotti and the Austrian crystal glass tycoon Adrian Swarovski.