Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider
The Maserati Mistral, named after the fierce Mediterranean wind as was Maserati tradition, was introduced at the 1963 Turin Motor Show as the successor to the 3500 GT. It represented the final evolution of Maserati's celebrated inline-six engine family, which traced its roots back to the 250F Grand Prix car, making the Mistral one of the most mechanically significant road cars of its era.
Designed by Pietro Frua, the Mistral featured a distinctive and handsome body that broke with Maserati's previous design language. The angular lines, with a prominent front end featuring four headlights and a wide grille, created a more modern and assertive presence than the flowing curves of the 3500 GT. Both coupe and spider versions were produced, with the open-top car being particularly attractive.
The heart of the Mistral was its twin-cam inline-six engine, available in 3.5, 3.7, and 4.0-liter displacements. The 3694cc version, producing 245 horsepower with Lucas fuel injection, was the most popular choice. This engine, with its racing heritage, was remarkably responsive and produced a thrilling exhaust note that rivaled any contemporary V12. Lucas mechanical fuel injection, unusual for Italian cars of this period, provided crisp throttle response and improved fuel delivery.
The chassis was a tubular steel frame with independent front suspension using double wishbones and coil springs, while the rear employed a more conventional live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. This combination provided adequate handling for grand touring purposes, though it was not as sophisticated as the all-independent setups used by some competitors. A ZF five-speed manual gearbox handled transmission duties, and four-wheel disc brakes provided stopping power.
The Mistral was produced from 1963 to 1970, with approximately 948 examples built across both coupe and spider variants. The spider version, of which only about 125 were produced, is significantly rarer and more valuable today. The Mistral marked the end of an era for Maserati, as subsequent models would use V8 engines rather than the inline-six that had defined the marque for decades.
Today, the Mistral is appreciated by collectors who value its combination of racing heritage, striking design, and the unique character of its inline-six engine. It offers a more accessible entry point into classic Maserati ownership compared to the rarer and more expensive A6GCS or 5000 GT, while still delivering a driving experience steeped in Modena's finest traditions.
Spider versions are significantly rarer and more valuable. The Lucas fuel injection system requires specialist knowledge; some cars have been converted to Webers. Check for rust in sills, floor pans, and door bottoms. The inline-six engine is robust but parts are increasingly scarce. Verify originality of engine size. ZF gearbox is generally reliable. Interior trim quality varies; check leather and wood condition.
Total production of approximately 948 units: about 823 coupes and 125 spiders. Available with 3.5L (235hp), 3.7L (245hp), and 4.0L (255hp) engines. Lucas fuel injection was standard; some early cars had Weber carburetors. The Mistral was the last Maserati powered by the inline-six engine family. ZF 5-speed manual was standard; a Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic was optional.