MASERATI CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC
Sebring
The Sebring was Maserati's first car to begin the tradition of 2+2 cars being named for race tracks where Maserati enjoyed success, such as the win at Sebring on 23 March 1957. Fangio and Behra co-drove the 450S factory team car, leading the entire race and setting new track records. Other 2+2 cars would follow with names from such tracks as Mexico, Indy, Kyalami etc.
The Sebring was introduced as an up-market 3500 GTi with swoopier lines designed by Alfredo Vignale; its rakish styling caught on quickly. The four-headlight frontal area distinguishes it from the Touring-bodied car of the same period. Using the same wheelbase as the 3500GT Spyder, Vignale utilised the frame of that car and introduced other options as well, including an automatic transmission. Using the fuel injected motor from the 3500GTI, the car became the 3500GTIS, generally called the Series I. From 1965 three engine versions were available: 3.5 litre; 3.7 litre and 4.0 litre. Some detailed styling changes accompanied the introduction of these changes and the cars affected were called Series II.
Sebrings were equipped with the same fuel-injected, in-line six-cylinder engine fitted to the 3500 GTi. The later version was enlarged to four litres and equipped with 15" Borrani wire wheels and Pirelli tires, transforming it into a superb high-speed, great-handling GT car.
