1963 Maserati Sebring I Coupe

The Maserati 3500 series was a success line of road going cars and literally transformed the company from a specialist constructor of sports racing and grand prix cars into a legitimate series producer of high quality gran turismo automobiles. This success encouraged the company to include a 2+2 model.

Alfredo Vignale had worked on the Spyder version of the 3500GT; impressed with their work, Maserati chose Vignale to create the coachwork for their 2+2 model. The Sebring Coupe 2+2 was built atop the long wheelbase platform of the 3500GT. The Vignale-designed Sebring was sharper and more angular than the 3500GT designed by Touring. The double-element grille of the 3500GT was completely transformed in the Sebring into a broad expansive near-oval shape. There was a quad headlight design - one of the more successful uses of this design.

Under the bonnet was a dual overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine that displaced 3694cc and rated at 245 horsepower. Most Sebrings were fitted with a ZF five-speed manual gearbox though a few were given an automatic. Optional accessories included wire wheels, radios, and air conditioning.

From 1962 through 1965, there were 348 examples of the Sebring created. From 1965 through 1966, 98 examples of the Sebring Series II were built.

This 1963 Maserati Sebring Coupe is painted in black with a red leather interior. There is a manual gearbox, a Becker Europa II AM/FM radio, chrome spoke Borrani wire wheels, alloy rims, air conditioning, an alternator, and power accessories.

It was once in the collection of John Bookout before being acquired by its current owner. The suspension was lowered by two inches to improve the handling and to give it a more aggressive stance. It wears an older high-quality repaint which still shows well in modern times.

In 2008, this Maserati Sebring Coupe was offered for sale at the Hilton Head Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers. It had an estimated value of $100,000 - $125,000. Bidding reached $85,000, including the buyer's premium, which was suitable to satisfy the vehicle's reserve. The lot was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2008