Officina Specializzate Costruzione Automobili built its first car in 1948. With the Orsi family retaining the Maserati name, the Fratelli Maserati (Maserati brothers) dropped the ‘FM’ from the title of their new company, leaving the acronym OSCA. A new car was born, though essentially, these cars were true Maseratis.
In late 1952, OSCA built a single-seater designed to the latest Grand Prix regulations for Formula 2 cars, powered by Ernesto’s new engine. Two cars were built, the first going to Elie Bayol and the second car to veteran Louis Chiron. These independents regularly achieved top-six finishes against the Works teams.
The 2000 S sports car, such as the one offered here, was built identically to the Formula 2 car, with a straight-six engine fitted with triple Webers. Five cars were built in total, and three of these boasted Barchetta bodies by Morelli. Offered here is chassis no. 2005S, a Morelli-bodied car, originally purchased by Robert Sgorbati.
Roberto Sgorbati of Brescia scored a win at the 12 Hours of Messina in 1954 and participated in other races that year before selling the OSCA on to Argentina. Chassis 2005S was entered and started the 1000 km of Buenos Aires, but engine failure forced the OSCA to withdraw. For over 30 years the OSCA was thought lost, before being found in 1986 by Busby Salzman as a chassis and body but without an engine. Salzman fitted the 2000 S with a six-cylinder from a Maserati Special (of which the invoice of the engine’s original sale is on file) and driven in the 1994 Mille Miglia.
The OSCA was sold to the current owner in 1996. Embarking upon a large restoration in 1999, the owner had the vehicle completely restored by Quality Cars in Modena, Italy. Completed in 2003, the restoration included removing the body from the frame chassis, stripping paint and repairing all oxidized metal. A Maserati specialist located in Padova also restored the brakes, suspension, steering components, electrical equipment and other mechanical components. With total restoration costs upwards of €40,000, the car presents today in its original colour of Rosso with a white stripe.
Offered with the car is a history file that includes export documents from Buenos Aires to Barcelona, invoices from Quality Cars and previous sale history. Photographs from the restoration are also included, showing the bare frame and several mechanical details.
One of only five OSCA two litres, chassis no. 2005S represents the perfect balance of sporting history with restored beauty. Whether the next owner wants to enter into historic events or simply own an elegant sports car, the choice is clear.


