1959 OSCA Model 18S Coupe Prototype

This car was designed by Giovanni Michelotti for the Maserati brothers. Michelotti opened his own studio in 1959 and his first build was this prototype, a Fiat-based coupe with a 1600cc engine modified by the Maserati brothers to have a new head, cams and induction system. The dual Weber carburetors are mounted between the valve covers in the center of the head, a unique engine configuration. The body was developed to be a two-seater touring car, with room for luggage behind the seats. It has a Pagoda roof, subsequently employed by the Mercedes-Benz SL class, and indicator lights on the rear of the front wings. The prototype was shown in Geneva, Paris and Turin, each time wearing a different livery. Unfortunately, the car was then disassembled and abandoned in Florida only to be rediscovered and restored to its original red and black colors.