Equipment
Triple Weber carbs, chrome wire wheels, Falken tires, locking filler cap and glovebox, wood shift knob.
Condition
Excellent chrome. Light wear on seats and top boot. Very good paint overall, but with some scratches on the hood and nose as well as a bubble on the trunk. One of a believed three Vignale-bodied prototypes, built on a slightly shorter wheelbase than the coupe. Sold new to Lindsey Hopkins, probably the North Carolina real estate magnate and USAC team sponsor. Built as one of the early styling experiments with special fender side trim, parking light surrounds and taillight treatment.
Market commentary
The 3500 GT Spiders were built on a 2500mm chassis, 100mm shorter than the coupes. 3.9 inches shorter doesn't sound like much, but it makes these cars dramatically different: tighter in appearance and more responsive for their drivers. One of three built by Vignale for Maserati's evaluation along with three built by Touring, this car has a number of differences that accent its presence, from the grille treatment to the very attractive tail. The price it brought is comparable with later 250 GT Cabriolets but this Maserati is much more rare and distinctive.