1969 Maserati Mexico

The original Mexico was a one-off custom commissioned to rebody a damaged 5000 GT, an ultra-exclusive two-seater originally conceived for the Shah of Iran. Displayed at the 1965 Turin Auto Salon, this prototype was so well received that Maserati released a full production version less than a year later.

The auction car was originally painted Bianco Polo Park, an attractive cream color still offered on many modern Maserati models.

There were two standard Mexico models, the 4200 and 4700 (featuring 4.2- and 4.7-liter engines, respectively), and the former came standard with Boranni disc wheels–at some point the auction car was switched to 4700-style Borrani wire items. Both were of the knock-off type.

Note the dual fuel doors and taillights, both of which were carried over from the Quattroporte I, a car whose chassis was shortened by 10” in order to provide a suitable platform for the production Mexico.

The car looks as if it may retain a good degree of completeness and originality inside, and its spec is impressive with options including air conditioning, power steering, and an automatic transmission.

The Mexico was a proper four-seater (as opposed to a 2+2), its relatively high rear roofline, large rear bucket seats, and ample legroom contributing to comfortable accommodation for adults, at least for moderate distances.

The car features a 4.2-liter version of Maserati’s fabulous quad-cam V8, one of the earliest all-aluminum alloy production engines. 4.7-liter cars developed 290 hp and 282 lb-ft, and 4.2’s were not far behind with figures of 260 and 275, respectively.

Brakes are by four-wheel discs, and the car is suspended by double wishbones and coil springs in front and a well-located live axle with leaf springs in back.

The car is sold with limited service and ownership documentation.

Only 305 4.2-liter Mexicos were made, among fewer than 500 in all. This one’s factory automatic transmission, power steering, and a/c mesh well with the car’s torquey, low-stress V8 and luxurious cabin, enhancing its innate GT credentials.

Estimated $30,000 - $50,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.