1962 Maserati 3500GT Touring

June 14, 2013 Graham

The Maserati 3500GT Touring that we featured last month has been relisted, advertised at the same price we previously saw.

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1962 Maserati 3500GT Touring - REVISIT

The below post originally appeared on our site May 4, 2013:

Some of the most gorgeous cars in history have come from the cars which bear the Trident badge. I doubt anyone would argue with that statement upon laying eyes on this beauty, the Maserati 3500GT. With its 3.5 liter twin cam straight six engine derived from the 350S racing car coachwork by Touring, this car popularized the marque, selling over 2,200 between 1957 and 1964. Popular with celebrities, this car had performance that few of its contemporaries could match.

Year: 1962
Model: 3500GT Touring
Engine: 3.5 liter inline six
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 72,913(?) miles
Price: $279,000 Buy It Now

1962 Maserati 3500GT Touring

Chassis AM101*2428*:
According to Maserati historian Adolfo Orsi, chassia 101.2428 was assembled in late 1962, and exhibits features from both the early and late series. Specifically, this car appears to have been built with the earlier side window frames without the second vent window at the rear of the door, and the earlier, single-piece taillights. Maserati's official historical archivists, George Mauro and Fabio Collina recently confirmed that chassis 101.24289 was retained by Maserati and not released privately until 1964. What she did at the Maserati factory during this time frame remains unknown but she may have been a test and loaner car for perspective clients and visiting VIPs. Upon being deemed surplus to the needs of Maserati, she was sold to a client in Belgium and delivered with her exterior painted "Grigio Metallizzato" (Max Meyer code 16.677) and was fitted with an interior in white "Neutral" leather (Connoly code PAC.1544) which she still retains to this day.

Chassis 2428 possesses a very desirable combination of features, with the five-speed gearbox of the later production 3500GTs with the classic Weber carburetors and Borrani wire wheels typical found on the early cars. This particular 3500GT was purchased in 1988 by a knowledgeable and experienced collector of Italian cars who is well known for the spectacular level of quality and detail in his restoration projects. He commissioned Joe Piscazzi of Akron, Ohio, to oversee the complete restoration of the Maserati and gave him the budget required to guarantee the finest work possible. Vanguard Automotive Enterprises, Inc. Of Medicine, Ohio, was responsible for rebuilding the DOHC inline six-cylinder engine. Mastercraft Metal Finishing of Seattle, Washington, provided chrome and metal finishing services, and the interior of the Maserati was crafted by artisan John Bowser. Photo documentation and receipts of the two-year restoration accompany this car today along with a tool and jack kit.

It is not surprising that the concours history of this stunning 3500 GT is truly impressive. Some of the laurels it has earned include: Best in Class, the Count Lurani Award and Best of Show at Le Belle Macchine d'Italia; Outstanding Maserati at the Concours of Italian Style at Meadow Brook; AACA Junior and Senior First Prizes; as well as National Award Candidate at Hershey. Not least of its accomplishments was a Second in Class prize at the 1994 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

Today, two decades after its restoration, this Maserati 3500 GT presents itself confidently. Expertly and fastidiously maintained, the deep blue paint and chrome and alloy brightwork accents appear unmarked, while the straight body panels show tight, even gaps. The dramatic white leather interior appears to have minimal traces of use and the engine compartment shows as restored, with correct finishes and fittings.

As a marvelous finishing touch, further study of the engine compartment reveals the distinctive signature of Carlo Felice Bianchi Anderloni who led his family's company, Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, from 1949-1966. Sig. Anderloni autographed this car when giving it special recognition with the Dolce Vita Award at Concorso Italiano in Carmel, California, in 1994. In November of this year, chassis 2428 was given a comprehensive mechanical rebuild and full round of services that included having her engine and gearbox out for full overhaul. All services and maintenance are now current and up to date.

Superbly styled, well-built and very entertaining to drive, the best 3500 GTs are now being actively sought by savvy enthusiasts. The fact that they are historically significant as well just adds the final nudge to spur an erudite collector to action. This particular 3500 GT is undoubtedly an exemplar of the breed, and would be difficult to duplicate.

At almost $300,000, this is very strong money for a 3500GT. Usually the best examples will bring between $175,000 and $200,000. I'd suspect the seller will have a hard time moving the metal at this price, although it might bring over $200,000 to the right buyer. This is where it all began for Maserati and for a company that has gone through triumphs and tragedies, not a more gorgeous piece of metal could represent genesis.

-Paul

Fiat

1972 Fiat 124 Spider

June 8, 2013 Graham 4 Comments

For those on a budget, the Fiat 124 Spider makes a great introductory vehicle into the world of classic Italian car ownership. With a production run spanning several decades, examples of all vintages are readily available here in the US, ranging from the most pristine concours examples to those needed a good amount of work for the more intrepid of enthusiasts. This 124 Spider for sale in Florida does a good job of splitting the middle, being a driver quality car in good condition in an eye catching shade of blue.

Year: 1972
Model: 124 Spider
Engine: 1.5 liter inline four
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 79,000 miles
Price: $8,500 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1972 Fiat 124 Spider

For sale is my private car that I use very offen, it is titled and registered in Miami, Florida. Mechanically very good, engine very strong, drives very, super good. It feels as when it was new, this is one of the best Fiats I have ever owned, it rides so tight it is unbelievable. You may be able to purchase a similar Fiat to restore for $4,000 or $5,000 but must expend couples thousand more I doubt it if will run like this one.

It can be drive anywhere, anytime, unfortunately I need to sell most of my collection because I need the space and the money. Please ask me anything you need to know, come and see it if possible. You will not be disappointed by this car, very hard to find condition and this color belongs to this car. Also hard to see, you can call me any time or day at 305-401-7469. My name is Vladimir. There is not any issue with this car, no rust, very clean, take a look at the pictures, there is a small scrach at the top rear passanger fender. Pictures talk by themselves, all gauges work, horn, shifting is good. Beleive me this is not for a museum or councours but as I said it rides very tight, smooth. Good luck.

I’ve never seen one with them mounted, but the Lancia Beta style alloy wheels work rather well on this Spider, complimented by the slimmer chrome bumpers that the earlier models carried. For the condition of the vehicle, the asking price isn’t too far off the mark in terms of what these cars are fetching nowadays. As long as major rust issues aren’t lurking underneath, this looks to be an honest little roadster that you wouldn’t be afraid to use on a regular basis.

-Paul

Ferrari

1967 Ferrari 330GTC

June 7, 2013 Graham

Ferraris can be a lot like movie stars. Through the magic of enhancements and plastic surgery, they go on to live multiple lives. Such is the case with this 300GTC for sale in California. It underwent a cosmetic and mechanical restoration in 2010, returning the exterior to its original Verde Chiaro Metallizato. It was exported to the US in the mid-1970s only to return to Europe in the 1980s, and underwent several color changes along the way.

Year: 1967
Model: 330GTC
Engine: 4.0 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 37,175 miles
Price: $750,000 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1967 Ferrari 330GTC

1967 Ferrari 330GTC

Verde Chiaro Metalizatto (Light Green Met.) with Black leather interior and Black carpeting, Restored, Factory air conditioning, Excellent history, Documented by Massini, Owner’s manual and Tools.

This 330 GTC was completed at the factory in 1967 and delivered to the factory Ferrari agent in Rome, Motor Sas in June of 1967. In July of 1967 it received its first service at the Ferrari Factory Assistenza Clienti at Viale Trento Trieste in Rome, Italy with the odometer showing 1,994 km's. This 330 GTC was exported to the United States in the mid-1970's and little is known until 1980 when it was owned by Mr. Dan Heit, Pennsylvania and repainted Red. In October 1988 it was advertised by Mr. Heit for sale in Ferrari Market Letter described as Red with Black interior, fully restored and having been in storage for eight years with 38,000 on the odometer.

Sold in 1988 to its next owner in Belgium, this 330 GTC was repainted Grey and fitted with a Tan leather interior. It stayed in Belgium for many, many years and was seen at the 35th Anniversary meeting of the Ferrari Club of Belgium and documented in a color photo in Cavallino magazine in December of 2007. It was shortly thereafter sold to a gentleman in Italy.

In 2010, while in Italy, this 330 GTC enjoyed a cosmetic restoration back to its original color combination of Verde Chiaro Met. with Black interior as well as an engine, gearbox rebuild, new clutch assembly and cooling system service. More recently this 330 has received new shock absorbers as well as various suspension bushings and a complete brake service with new brakes and lines at each corner as well as a new master cylinder. All of the above mentioned work is documented with detailed receipts.

On a recent inspection and road test prior to our purchase, this 330 GTC performed flawlessly. It accelerated well with great power, the gearbox felt perfect with no synchro issues and the cars steering and braking systems felt exceptional and as they should for a properly maintained and restored 330 GTC. This 330 GTC has been lovingly owned from new, it has never had any accident dmage and is currently with 42,000 miles from new!

I have started this auction extremely low, don't get your hopes up for ownership at $100k (as you well know it is nowhere near its current market value), but have fun bidding and let's see who may want to own a proper, restored and well serviced 330 GTC.

These GTCs have always been some of my favorite vintage Ferraris. They have the classic single headlamp look up front with the nicely tapered rear end. The Colombo V12 and short wheelbase only add to this car’s desirability. At $750,000, this is one of the cheaper, pre-Daytona V12 Ferraris you can get into. Many other models of this era are going for seven figures.

-Paul

Lamborghini

1973 Lamborghini Espada

June 6, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

Like the LM002A we featured on Tuesday, the Espada was one of those oddball Lamborghinis. Other than its outlandish styling, the concept of this four seater GT car seems a distant relic from the supercars that make up the lineup today. Even though this low slung coupe may be long forgotten, it represents one of the best values in terms of classic Lamborghinis today. This silver example for sale in Nevada needs some attention but nothing that would scare off the more serious classic Italian car enthusiasts.

Year: 1973
Model: Espada
Engine: 4.0 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 85,089 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1973 Lamborghini Espada

1973 Espada III, 2-door, 4 passanger coupe (really seats 4 adults) very good color combo, it always atrracts a lot of attention. Car was restored in 2000: engine, suspension, brakes all rebuilt; new paint and new full leather interior. Transmission was NOT rebuilt so 1st/2nd syncros are weak (double clutch it). Car only driven summers, mostly to car shows. Car took 1st place at Concourso Italiano in '08 - Espada/Islaro/Jerama class. Car has been stored for two years, so probably needs tuneup and tires are well worn.

With the transmission needing attention and the added issues of worn tires and a tune up needed, I’d suspect this Espada may bring in the neighborhood of $45,000 to $55,000, as that would leave room for such maintenance costs. It would be worth spending the time and money to bring this brute back to tip top condition. These V12 tourers represent a period in Lamborghini’s history when more conventional, four seater sports cars would give way to the wild and brash Countach and smaller, V8 engined Uracco and Jalpa that would carry the company through turbulent times in the 1980s. For a V12 Italian exotic, it’s certainly an uncommon bargain in comparison to its contemporaries.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

June 5, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

The Series 4 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce is a great car for those seeking Italian flair with a touch of modern convenience. With summer around the corner, this red Spider Veloce for sale in Arizona with just over 40,000 miles is ready for some top down thrills.

Year: 1991
Model: Spider Veloce
Engine: 2.0 liter inline four
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 41,973 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

Great condition, low mileage Alfa that has been well taken care of. Clean exterior and interior. Drives excellent and shifts smoothly. Good tires and cold A/C. All systems working except for:

Power Antenna, air bag light stays on and there are minor rock chips on the front valance. Car is dependable and reliable and very well maintained. If not locally purchased, shipping is the responsibilty of the buyer. Paypal deposit of $500 due immediately upon auction end. Bank Wire Transfer, Certified check or cash due within seven days of auction end. Good Luck!

While this Spider has its flaws, they certainly aren't anything too difficult to fix. Series 4 Spiders values have stayed pretty flat over the past few years. One can expect to pay between $9,000 and $15,000, depending on mileage and condition. I'd suspect somewhere between $12,000 and $13,000 would be enough to get the deal done with this car.

-Paul

Lamborghini

1990 Lamborghini LM002A

June 4, 2013 Graham 4 Comments

For a truck built in such limited numbers, the Lamborghini LM002 has built up an impressive cult following over the years. In this day and age, a car like this would probably never make it past the drawing board, given the intense scrutiny given to gas mileage and C02 emissions. One could imagine the cries: “a four-seat, four wheel drive off-roader and you’re going to stick WHAT under the hood?” A Lamborghini V12? Are you mad?!?”

Well, on the brink of survival, Lamborghini did just that in the 1980s, after the initial, rear-engined Cheetah concept went no further than the concept stage. Ceasing production right before the SUV craze began, these brutes went unnoticed for a short while but now are becoming rather popular.

Year: 1990
Model: LM002A
Engine: 5.7 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 4,152 miles
Price: $147,888

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1990 Lamborghini LM002A

RARE 1990 Lamborghini LM002-America finished in OEM Gloss Black over OEM Red Leather interior. One of ONLY 48 LM002-Americas produced worldwide. With JUST 4,152 miles from new (6,698 KMS on the ODOD) this truck is as new as a used vehicle gets. This truck's first owner was the famous artist, Christian R Lassen. Included in the sale is the retail sale certificate, warranty registration card, as well as the original window sticker. Along with the "updated" newer OEM factory options exclusive to the LM002 America trucks, sale includes owner's books and USA version book, 4WD lug wrench, tinted windows, updated stereo head and speakers (in OEM locations), newer "Super Swamper" tires with spare (less than 500mi driven), OEM spare tire metal cover with insignia, and RARE OEM factory tonneau cover. All full service was completed 500mi ago. This car is in superior condition inside and out, it's that clean! A 3 stage detail was recently completed. It drives incredibly well being equipped with the upgraded "America" fuel injected Diablo motor. The AC blows ICE COLD. No accidents and a very, very late production LM-002 America. A set of OEM Scorpion "Sand Lip" tires available as well for this vehicle.

For anyone interested in learning more about this truck, Octane magazine had an excellent feature of a restored example and a British concern that is helping to keep these vehicles preserved. Worth noting is that this LM002 has new tires. The Pirelli Scorpions can be had, but if you find them, prepare to pay an eye watering amount of money for them. Given that it has new rubber and low mileage, the price is about in line with what the market is currently dictating. These are fascinating trucks and a curious example of the lunacy that Lamborghini is capable of. For all its faults, you can’t help but love it.

-Paul

Fiat

1960 Fiat 1200 Spider

June 3, 2013 Graham 1 Comment

Sometimes the simple things in life can be the most elegant. This isn't the fastest or most exclusive Italian classic, but this Fiat 1200 Spider for sale in California has undergone a recent refurbishment and would be a unique and economical choice for cruising to the beach this summer.

Year: 1960
Model: 1200 Spider
Engine: 1.2 liter inline four
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 18,987 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1960 Fiat 1200 Spider

Presented formally for sale for the first time since completing a thorough mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment during the summer and fall of 2012, is this beautiful 1960 Fiat 1200 “Vetture Speciali” Spider. Originally purchased at a Fiat dealership in San Francisco, the car was driven very little since new, but remained with the original owner until his passing in 2009. His neighbor bought the car from the original owner’s estate with the intent of bringing it back to its former glory, but eventually he was convinced to sell the car to us.

The cabriolet version of the 1200 or “spider” was restyled in 1959 and given a new body designed by the renowned designer Battitsta Pininfarina. The 1200 Spider was built by Fiat's Vetture Speciali (meaning: special cars) unit, and has amazing similarities to Ferrari's 250 GT PF Cabriolet of the same era (minus 8 of the 12 cylinders of course). Available at a fraction of the cost, the popularity of the 1200 Spider skyrocketed with sports car enthusiasts. A new 1200 Spider sold for $2,595 and proved to be a rather prudent choice, especially in the American sports-car market. In 1960, the Spider was given a boost of power, with the 1221cc engine reaching a peppy 63 horsepower. Production of the Spider continued with few changes through March of 1963.

Now presented in a striking color combination of black paint with two tone red and black interior (available factory options at the time), our special little Italian dish is certainly a head turner. As you can tell from the pictures, a painstaking effort was given to ensure that this wonderful 18,000 mile California original sports car was preserved and presented as if it just left the factory in Italy. The car has competed respectfully in two prestigious Concours d' Elegance events in Southern California, earning second place honors at the La Jolla Concours d' Elegance this past April. As great as this Spider appears in person or in pictures, she performs even better. The engine presents in as new condition after being rebuilt, resealed and repainted in factory colors with everything correct down to the stickers and oil filter cannister. The paint was stripped to bare metal with not an ounce of rust found anywhere. All chrome and stainless has been rechromed and refurbished, and all interior components: gauges, rubber, switches, handles and panels have all been reconditioned. To give an idea of how well preserved this Spider really is, the canvas soft top was replaced on the car in January of 1972 and is still in amazing condition! Seize the opportunity to purchase what is arguably the best original example of this model of Fiat in the world! Certain to increase in value in a fast appreciating European sports-car market, this special Fiat Spider represents a sound financial investment while providing classic Pininfarina styling and Italian panache and performance.

We welcome and recommend any inspection of this truly outstanding machine. Please contact Tim at 760/717-3997 for further information. You'll be glad you did!

These 1200 Spiders can fetch in the low to mid $20,000 range in good shape, and I'd expect this one to come close to that figure. I get used to seeing Spiders of all kinds painted in red, but in black, it kicks this car up a notch in terms of classiness.

-Paul

Fiat

1975 Fiat 124 Coupe

June 2, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Following on to the rare Fiat 130 Coupe we featured a few days ago, here's another Fiat Coupe from the 1970s: the 124 Coupe. This 124 Coupe is the final "CC" iteration, with 1975 representing the final year of this compact coupe. It's open roofed sibling, the 124 Spider, would live on to see another decade. While 124 Spiders are rather plentiful, this 124 Coupe for sale in Portland offers the collector a rare chance to get one of these in complete, if not perfect, shape.

Year: 1975
Model: 124 Coupe
Engine: 2.0 liter inline four
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 52,943 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Fiat 124 Coupe

Hello, and welcome to my eBay auction. Before I start I want to apologize to those of you out there that know far more than I do about the history and details and facts about these cars. I am a fan of them and a “car guy”, but I just have never had the pleasure of even seeing one of these cars let alone owning one. This is my first drive down 124 coupe laneJ

This car is a 1975 Fiat 124 Coupe with a 5 Speed. The third generation of Fiat coupes of the 60s and early 70s. This little car had an engine upgrade from an 1800cc to a 2000cc or 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine. It runs and drives better than I ever thought possible. Fast, fun, nimble, agile. It is a total blast and I am surprised by how much I like driving it. Old cars can be a bit of a love hate affair and so far this one is all love. Here is what I love about the car.

#1. Everything works. The blinkers, the wipers, the gas gage, all the gages as a matter of fact, the headlights and brights! The best part is the horn. Full Italian twin bugle style. I honk it constantly. Just to wave at gawkers.

#2. The engine and mechanics. No smoke, no drips, no overheating, no drama. Good clutch and brakes. Matching Michelin tires too with lots of tread. Lots of power and vintage pipe sound for days..

#3. The look. I call this inexpensive exclusivity. Nobody has one of these cars anymore. They just do not exist in my town anyway. Portland is a town that prides itself in being different and nobody has one of these cars that I have seen. It is also very stock looking. Right down to the Italian Speedline wheels and tool kit.

Here is what I don’t love about the car.

#1 The Paint. It is a 10 footer. If you look close up you will see that the color is a bit faded and there are spots of touch up and overspray. But yes this also shows care.

#2 The Interior. Again, not horrible. But not fantastic either. The seam on the passenger cushion is coming apart and the seats are brighter than the door panels. The carpet looks good and the floor pans are solid.

#3 There are traces of rust here and there on the car. I would not call the car a rust bucket or anything and again the floors are solid, but when the car is repainted there will need to be some repairs made to put a stop to it.

That is about all I can tell you. I am happy to answer any and all questions you have as well. Please understand that this car is almost 40 years old. It is fun and cool and even economical, but it is not going to replace your Accord as your only mode of transport. I am setting the reserve very low and I know the Fiat will sell as long as we all play by the rules.

#1. Only bid if you have intentions to buy.

#2. Ask any and all questions before bidding.

#3. Please contact me BEFORE BIDDING if you have zero or negative feedback.

Just be real and genuine and I will make sure that the winning bidder is happy with his or her purchase. I have 100% positive feedback and I plan on keeping that. Also, I will end the sale for the right offer so don’t wait till the last second and worry about missing out. Just call me and we will work out a fair price. I’m Justin my Phone number is 503-969-5127. I am available most of the time and love to talk about the Fiat. Thanks again for looking and Happy Bidding!!

Last month, we featured a 1970 "BC" 124 Coupe that sold for $8,900. That car was in a bit better shape than this CC 124 Coupe, and benefitted by having a cleaner look without the heavier bumpers and fussier grille of this model. Still, this is a neat piece and I wouldn't be surprised if it brought between $5,000 to $7,000 to the right buyer.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1991 Alfa Romeo 164L

June 1, 2013 Graham

While at the outset it was derided by Alfa Romeo purists for it’s front-wheel drive setup, the 164 has become quite the practical, desirable modern Italian classic. This 164L for sale in Maryland has been owned by one family and is rather attractive in that it has the five speed gearbox with the red and tan leather color combination.

Year: 1991
Model: 164L
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 114,000 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1991 Alfa Romeo 164L

A unique opportunity to purchase a one-family owned Alfa. My father bought this car new and when he passed, I became the next driver. We have owned many Alfas (Spyders, GTVs, 164s, Berlinas) and this is one of the finest. Always garaged and always maintained. She runs very strong. The clutch (19K on new clutch), brakes (new pads), cooling system (steppers work perfectly), tires (almost new), suspension (new control arms & trailing arms), and AC are all in great condition. Oil change just performed. Paint is in good shape as is the interior. Original tool kit included and complete. All original manuals too. I would drive this car anywhere without hesitation. I have mixed feelings about parting with Dad's Alfa but I just don't have the time to drive it and I can't stand the thought of it just sitting in the garage. The only thing worse than too many miles is not enough! I have many maintanance records. The Alfa is being sold "as is".

At almost 120,000 miles, this isn’t a lot considering the car’s age. One important point not discussed in the seller’s ad is whether the timing belt has been replaced, and if so, at what interval. For a car in this kind of condition and benefitting from the fact that you know going in where it has been, I’d say it could pull around $4,500 to $6,000. For the enthusiast on a budget who needs a bit more space but wants a bit of a sharp edge to the four-door formula, this is your ride.

-Paul