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MASERATI CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC |
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Mexico |
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The replacement for the 5000 GT 2+2 (after 32 cars) came in the form of the Mexico, named after the racing success of John Surtees at the 1966 Mexican Grand Prix, at the wheel of the V-12-powered Cooper-Maserati. The Mexico was a luxurious 2+2, designed by Vignale as a four seater and introduced at the 1966 Turin Auto Show. The car was in fact prompted by a one-off customer car developed by Vignale - a 2+2 version with a 4.9 litre motor. Approximately 250 cars were produced. The Mexico was initially released as a two-door 4 seater with a 4.2-litre V8, driving through a ZF transmission, and live rear axle. The interior was fitted with a beautiful wood dash and window trim. The lovely Connolly leather interior featured thick Wilton wool carpets, and all cars were air conditioned. Later Mexicos were fitted with 4.7-litre engines, and a few even made it off the assembly line with the 4.9-litre engine. Power steering was an option (an important one). Conservative in styling, even by today's standards, the Mexico has a large greenhouse and is well proportioned. The rear seats are large and can actually accommodate two adults in relative comfort over long distances, unlike most 2+2 cars. In fact, the factory described the Mexico as a "4-posti" car. |
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Production Period: |
1966 - 1973 | |
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Designed By: |
Vignale | |
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Body Built By: |
Vignale - 2 door, 4 seater | |
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Number Built: |
485 | |
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Dry Weight: |
1450 kg | |
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Top Speed: |
255 kph 240 kph from 1969 |
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Engine Type: |
Front, eight cylinders arrange in 90º "V" | |
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Bore and Stroke: |
93.9x85 mm 88x85 mm from 1969 |
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Displacement: |
4709 cc 4135 cc from 1969 |
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Compression: |
8.5:1 | |
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Engine Output: |
290 bhp @ 5000 rpm 260 bhp @ 5000 rpm from 1969 |
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Valves & Actuation: |
Two OHV per cylinder with dual overhead camshafts | |
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Carburettion: |
Free induction with four Weber 38DCNL5 carburettors | |
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Ignition: |
Single with one Marelli distributor | |
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Lubrication: |
Forced with pressure pump | |
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Drive: |
Rear wheel drive | |
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Clutch: |
Dry single disc | |
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Gearbox: |
5-speeds plus reverse (automatic available) | |
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Frame: |
Integral body unit construction with auxiliary sub-frame | |
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Suspension - Front: |
Independent coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers | |
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Suspension - Rear: |
Rigid axle with semi-elliptical springs and telescopic shock absorbers | |
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Brakes: |
Hydraulically operated power assisted four wheel discs | |
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Wheelbase: |
2640 mm | |
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Front & Rear Track: |
1390 mm front; 1360 mm rear | |
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Wheels: |
Spoked, 6.50 x 15 - discs on request | |
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Tyres: |
Pirelli 205x15 |