1966 Maserati Sebring: The Italian Classic on Wheels

The Vignale company created Sebring in 1961 to replace the outdated 3500 GT Touring. This remarkable project was a tribute to Maserati’s victories in the famous 12-hour race at the North American track in 1957, where they won first and second place. 

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During the early 1960s, Maserati cars were known for their exceptional speed and power, distinguishing them from other prestigious brands. However, they were lacking in luxury and comfort, which limited their appeal to a smaller customer base. To address this issue, Maserati developed and released a series of new and improved high-speed sedans, namely the Sebring, Mistral, and Quattroporte. These models maintained the dynamic handling and control that the famous Italian automaker was known for, while also featuring luxurious interiors and improved comfort. These new models were so luxurious and comfortable that they could even compete with top-tier brands such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

The origins

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During World War II, Maserati focused on producing military equipment. The company resumed its civilian production two years after the war ended and showcased its new model, the A6 1500, at the Geneva Motor Show in 1947. It was the company’s first vehicle designed for everyday use instead of racing. In the 1950s, Maserati faced stiff competition from Ferrari and Alfa Romeo, causing some problems for the company. However, when Gioacchino Colombo, the designer of the Italian Grand Prix-winning A6 GCM, was appointed chief engineer in 1953, the company’s fortunes turned around. They introduced the 250F model, which won several prestigious titles, and in 1958, they released the famous 3500 GT. After four years, in 1962, they introduced the Sebring, a new four-door model that replaced the outdated 3500 GT.

The 1966 model year

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The 1966 release of the Sebring marked the third and final year of production for this automobile. The Sebring was Maserati’s answer to the growing demand for high-speed luxury sedans, and it was designed to compete with other prestigious brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley. The 1966 edition showcased a conventional Italian aesthetic design, comprising a short deck and elongated hood. Two body styles were made available, a convertible and a coupe. The front part of the vehicle boasted a grand grille with the brand’s iconic trident emblem along with dual headlights. The sides of the vehicle had a smooth, sophisticated look, with an exclusive character line stretching from the front fender toward the rear quarter panel. In the engine compartment, the 1966 model featured a 3.7-liter inline-six engine that generated 235 horsepower. It was matched with a four-speed manual transmission and could reach a top speed of approximately 137 mph. This engine boasted dual overhead camshafts and three Weber carburetors, contributing to an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Inside the car, the cabin exuded luxury and spaciousness, with leather seats and elegant wood accents throughout. The dashboard was thoughtfully designed, displaying gauges and controls in a clear and concise manner. For added convenience and comfort, the convertible version included a power-operated top. Compared to previous iterations, the 1966 edition introduced several minor upgrades and enhancements. These encompassed improved rear suspension geometry, larger brake calipers, and a more supportive and comfortable driver’s seat. As a result of these improvements, the car exhibited superior handling and stability compared to its predecessors. All in all, the 1966 release exemplified Italian design and engineering at its finest, blending luxury, performance, and style flawlessly. It quickly became a preferred choice among both high-society individuals and avid enthusiasts.

Did you know?

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One of the most notable owners of the 1966 edition was the famous Hollywood actor Anthony Quinn, who was known for his roles in classic films such as “Zorba the Greek” and “Lawrence of Arabia”. Quinn was a car enthusiast and owned several luxury and sports vehicles during his lifetime, including a 1966 release of the model.

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