MASERATI CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC

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Mexico

 

 

 

 

   
 

   
 

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.

   

Specifications:

 

Production Period:

1966 - 1973
 

Designed By:

Vignale
 

Body Built By:

Vignale - 2 door, 4 seater
 

Number Built:

485
 

Dry Weight:

1450 kg
 

Top Speed:

255 kph
240 kph from 1969
 

Engine Type:

Front, eight cylinders arrange in 90º "V"
 

Bore and Stroke:

93.9x85 mm 
88x85 mm from 1969
 

Displacement:

4709 cc
4135 cc from 1969
 

Compression:

8.5:1
 

Engine Output:

290 bhp @ 5000 rpm
260 bhp @ 5000 rpm from 1969
 

Valves & Actuation:

Two OHV per cylinder with dual overhead camshafts
 

Carburettion:

Free induction with four Weber 38DCNL5 carburettors
 

Ignition:

Single with one Marelli distributor
 

Lubrication:

Forced with pressure pump
 

Drive:

Rear wheel drive
 

Clutch:

Dry single disc
 

Gearbox:

5-speeds plus reverse (automatic available)
 

Frame:

Integral body unit construction with auxiliary sub-frame
 

Suspension - Front:

Independent coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers
 

Suspension - Rear:

Rigid axle with semi-elliptical springs and telescopic shock absorbers
 

Brakes:

Hydraulically operated power assisted four wheel discs
 

Wheelbase:

2640 mm
 

Front & Rear Track:

1390 mm front; 1360 mm rear
 

Wheels:

Spoked, 6.50 x 15 - discs on request
 

Tyres:

Pirelli 205x15