Facing significant financial difficulties which forced it to withdraw from racing, Maserati needed a victory in terms of a successful road car that it could sell to its well-to-do clientele. That car made its first appearance at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show and was dubbed the 3500 GT. With a 3.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine and bodies built by Touring in Milan, utilizing its Superleggera light-alloy process, Maserati was able to construct a car that was not only successful in terms of sales and profit, but also in terms of sheer attractiveness and desirability. These stunning-looking coupés were a hit with celebrities, and notable owners included Prince Rainier III of Monaco and actors Tony Curtis, Rock Hudson, and Anthony Quinn.

Over time, Masearti continually performed minor updates to the car’s specification. A limited slip differential and disc brakes were fitted in 1959, followed by a five-speed gearbox in 1960, and beginning in 1961, buyers could equip their new 3500 GT Coupé with Lucas fuel injection in place of triple Weber carburetors.

This particular fuel-injected 3500 GTi was built by Maserati on 10 December 1962 and was originally finished in Grigio Montebello over a Blue leather interior, according to information provided by Maserati Classiche. Delivered new to Rome, it is not known when the car was imported to the United States, but it was eventually acquired by Doug Magnon for inclusion in the Riverside International Automotive Museum. Restored by the museum to its original color scheme and fitted with wire wheels, the 3500 GTi presents quite well and still retains its original engine.

There is no doubt why these cars were so successful when new. Truly a gentleman’s GT car, the 3500 GTi is a wonderful automobile for long distance cruising and makes for a highly cosmopolitan and understated alternative to a Jaguar, Ferrari, or Aston Martin.