1969 Maserati Indy

When Maserati unveiled the Indy at the 1968 Turin Auto Show, it marked a bold new direction for the Modenese marque. The company displayed two prototypes for a sleek new four-seat grand tourerone each from longtime collaborators Ghia and Carrozzeria Vignale. Both designs captured the essence of Maseratis post-Ghibli evolution, but it was Vignales proposal, penned by Virginio Vairo, that ultimately stole the show. The production version debuted at Geneva in 1969, bearing the name Indy to commemorate Maseratis twin victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940 with the legendary 8CTF. The Indy represented a compelling synthesis of high performance and elegant practicality, designed to accommodate four occupants in comfort while delivering the exhilarating performance expected from a Maserati V8.

Unlike the more visceral Ghibli, the Indy was envisioned as a true grand tourercapable of fast, comfortable long-distance motoring with room for luggage and passengers alike. Its flowing two-door profile cloaked a robust platform powered by a front-mounted, all-alloy, 4.2-liter DOHC V8 fed by four Weber carburetors and mated to a ZF 5-speed gearbox. Disc brakes on all four wheels, independent front suspension, and a fastback rear hatch with 18 cubic feet of luggage space made the Indy a refined yet capable machine. The car was a statement of Maseratis continued confidence at the dawn of the 1970s, combining elegance, performance, and practicality in a distinctly Italian package.

This 1969 Maserati Indy was delivered new on October 7, 1969, to its first owner in Palermo, Sicily, finished in the striking factory combination of Celeste Chiaro over blue leather. From the outset, it embodied the effortless Mediterranean flair that defined Maseratis road cars in this golden era. In 2015, the car was acquired by a devoted collector of Italian exotics in Bavaria. It was soon entrusted to HC History Car of Munich, under the direction of Bernd Werndl, where it received a comprehensive mechanical overhaul. The car remained in the care of this collection through 2024, receiving over 21,000 in documented servicing and refinement to ensure it remained both road-ready and true to its character.

Today, the Indy presents beautifully in a vivid shade of red paired with a supple black leather interior. The paintwork is glossy and even, emphasizing the crisp body lines and subtle detailing that define Vignales design. The cabin is equally pleasing, featuring well-preserved upholstery, a lovely wood-rimmed FIV steering wheel, and original Veglia instrumentation. The interior retains the inviting aroma and soft touch of quality hides, the hallmarks of a car that has been used with care and maintained to high standards.

Under the forward-hinged bonnet resides the original, numbers-matching 4.2-liter V8 engine, neatly detailed and eager to perform. Four-wheel disc brakes provide confident stopping power, and the car rides on proper Borrani wheels wrapped in fresh, Michelin radials, delivering a composed and refined ride. Recent mechanical attention ensures the Indy performs as it shouldwith smooth power delivery, a responsive gearbox, and reassuring handling that makes it a joy on both twisting roads and open motorways.

A superb expression of Maseratis late-1960s design and engineering philosophy, this Indy is an appealing alternative to more commonly seen contemporaries. Its elegant lines, charismatic V8, and versatile layout make it a rewarding and distinctive addition to any collection. Rare, beautifully kept, and thoughtfully restored, this Maserati represents a golden age of Italian motoringone where design, performance, and comfort were not opposing forces but beautifully balanced priorities.

Offers welcome and trades considered.