www.QV500.com - Maserati Tipo 101 Part 2: 3500 GT Spyder

 
In 1959, the first Maserati 3500 Spyder made its debut at the Turin Salon. Believed to have been a prototype based on the Coupe's 2600mm wheelbase chassis, subsequent versions from 1960 onwards were all completed with shortened 2500mm wheelbase frames. Although outwardly similar to the elegant Touring-bodied Coupe, the 3500 Spyder was actually designed by Vignale. It featured a subtly reworked body and interior, the former being fabricated from steel as opposed to aluminium. Thanks to being shorter, narrower and only a little taller, weight was officially reduced
   

from 1420 to 1380kg. A smaller fuel tank was installed to make space for retractable hood, this simple manually folding roof being stowed flush with the rear deck in the area behind the tiny rear seats. Borrani wire wheels and an elegant hard top were optional extras, 242 Spyder's being manufactured in carb-fed and fuel injected guises between 1960 and '64.