1958 Maserati 3500 Touring Spider “Prototype”
Before the Vignale Spider entered production, Maserati commissioned Carrozzeria Touring to create a convertible variant of the 3500 GT, resulting in two prototype examples completed in 1958.
These rare Spiders emerged during a period of financial strain for Maserati, as the company worked to establish a sustainable road car business beyond its expensive racing program. The 3500 GT series would ultimately prove essential to the brand’s survival.
Touring’s design displayed clean lines and restrained proportions, contrasting with the later Vignale Spider’s more overtly sporty character and prominent air intakes. The bodywork closely echoed the flowing elegance of the 3500 GT Touring coupe while adding the appeal of open-air motoring.
Power came from Maserati’s 3.5-liter inline-six derived from its racing engines, fitted with triple Weber 42 DCOE carburetors and rated at approximately 220 horsepower.
These Touring-built prototypes preceded the production Vignale Spider introduced for 1959, making the two cars important transitional pieces in Maserati road car history.
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