1968 Monteverdi 375L

Monteverdi was a Swiss automaker founded in 1967 by Peter Monteverdi. Based in Binningen (near Basel, Switzerland), they built exclusive high-performance luxury automobiles through 1982. The company's first model was the Monteverdi High Speed 375S two-seater coupe that was introduced in 1967 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Styling was courtesy of Pietro Frua, and power was sourced from a 440 cubic-inch Chrysler V8 engine that delivered up to 376 horsepower. Between 1968 and 1969, Monteverdi produced eleven examples of the coupe.

As the 1960s were coming to a close, Monteverdi turned to Carrozzeria Fissore to redesign its 375 Coupe. The result was a two-seat coupe (Model 375/S) and a drophead (Model 375/C), both on a short-wheelbase platform. Approximately ten examples of the High Speed 375S were bodied by Frua and six by Fissore. A large sedan soon followed, dubbed the Model 375/4, and approximately 30 examples were built over an eight-year period. The chassis had been stretched by 20 inches to accommodate two additional doors and provide rear legroom for rear-seat passengers.

The Monteverdi Model 375L was a 2+2 coupe powered by a Chrysler 440 cubic-inch (7.2-liter) 'Hemi' engine mated to a TorqueFlight transmission. It had a tubular spaceframe chassis built by Monteverdi with double-wishbone independent front suspension and a De Dion rear axle. These hand-built automobiles were well-appointed and built in limited numbers.

The demise of the Monteverdi sports car was caused by the energy crisis and US Federal auto legislation.

by Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2025