MASERATI 3500 GT TOURING SUPERLEGGERA 1959

1959 MASERATI 3500 GT TOURING SUPERLEGGERA Brand: Maserati Model: 3500 GT carburetors Year: 1959 Chassis: 101-604 Engine: 101-604 Touring Body: 6768 Displacement: 3500 cc Interior: Neutral white leather PAC1544 Exterior: Metallic Cordoba Red 106R7 General description and rarity of the model The Maserati 3500 GT represents one of the milestones in the history of the Trident: a model that marked the transition from artisanal production to semi-industrial production, while maintaining standards of absolute exclusivity. Bodied by Touring with the famous Superleggera technique, the 3500 GT combined lightness, elegance, and performance, becoming one of the most refined Italian GTs of the era. Produced in a limited number of units, the carbureted 3500 GT — like this one — is now among the most sought-after versions for authenticity and mechanical purity. The fact that the engine and chassis are matching numbers further increases its historical and collectible value. Detailed history of the specimen This car was delivered new in the Netherlands by the dealer Maasland to its first owner, being registered on October 20, 1959. Originally it featured a classic white exterior with red interiors. On December 29, 1965, it passed to the second owner, J. V. Bertholee, residing in ’S-Gravenhage. During the years of this ownership, the car was repainted in blue. In 1988, the car was purchased by Mike van Helsdingen. Although complete, it required a total restoration after a long period of inactivity. Van Helsdingen decided to completely disassemble it, starting the restoration work; however, the duration of the interventions ultimately led him to desist, selling the car in 2006 to an Italian professional specialized in Touring Superleggera models. On February 9, 2007, the car was subsequently purchased by an Italian collector who initiated a high-level professional restoration. The bodywork and mechanics were completely restored, but the final completion was delayed by the difficulty in sourcing numerous original parts and finishes. This owner also, after years, decided to give up, transferring the car to Cristiano Luzzago, who purchased it on June 9, 2014. Thanks to his experience and specific skills in the field of historic vehicles, Luzzago finally completed the restoration, bringing the 3500 GT back on the road. The car thus became part of Cristiano Luzzago's private collection, participating over the years in various official events of the Touring Superleggera Register and other prestigious events. All work carried out from 2014 onwards is documented by supporting invoices, along with all maintenance and enhancement expenses incurred to date. A valuable contribution to the car's history comes from the third owner, Mike van Helsdingen, who, knowing that the car had entered the Luzzago collection, provided historical photographs dating back to the time of its purchase in 1988 and images documenting the start of the restoration he initiated and never completed. Certifications and recognitions In May 2023, Maserati obtained the prestigious FIVA certification category A3, official confirmation of its historical relevance and the quality of the restoration, and was registered in Prague. On September 29, 2024, it participated in the Concorso d’Eleganza at the Castle of Meano, receiving the special jury prize as the most elegant sports car.