1957 Maserati 300S

300S image

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The Maserati 300S was a true racing icon of the 1950s, recognized for its sleek and aerodynamic design and outstanding performance on the track. The development of this model started in 1950, with the objective of building a sports prototype capable of competing against the best sports cars of the era, such as the Ferrari 750 Monza and the Jaguar D-Type.

Under the hood of the Maserati 300S, you would find a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that was capable of producing up to 240 horsepower at 6,200 RPM. This engine was designed with a lightweight aluminum block, high-performance camshaft, and Weber carburetors, allowing it to achieve impressive torque and a top speed of around 170 mph. The powerful engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission, which provided smooth and responsive gear changes.

The chassis was made of steel tubing, which was wrapped in a stunning aluminum body designed by Fiandri and Fantuzzi. The body featured a long and low profile, with a rounded nose, sharp lines, and a sloping back. The Maserati's aerodynamic design was one of its greatest strengths, allowing it to slip through the air with minimal drag and maximize its speed on the track.

The suspension on the Maserati 300S was an advanced double-wishbone arrangement, which provided excellent handling and cornering capabilities. The front suspension featured coil springs, while the rear had leaf springs, and both featured hydraulic shock absorbers. The brakes were also exceptional, with large cast-iron discs on all four corners providing excellent stopping power.

Overall, the Maserati 300S was one of the most advanced racing cars of its time, and it set the standard for high-performance sports prototypes for years to come. With its iconic design, cutting-edge engineering, and legendary racing pedigree, it remains one of the most sought-after classic cars for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Milestones

- Introduction at the Paris Motor Show in 1956 - Designed by Vittorio Bellentani and Giulio Alfieri - First race at the 1956 Swedish Grand Prix, finishing first in class and fourth overall - Multiple class wins in prestigious races such as the Mille Miglia and 24 Hours of Le Mans - Top speed of 170 mph, thanks to a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 250 horsepower - Only 26 units produced between 1956 and 1958 - One of the most successful racing cars of the 1950s - Today considered one of the most valuable and sought after Maserati models.


Technical

- Engine: 3.0-liter inline-six - Power output: 245 horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Top speed: 170 mph - Weight: 1,650 kg - Suspension: Independent front suspension and live rear axle with semi-elliptic springs - Brake system: Disc brakes all around - Body style: Two-seater sports car - Production numbers: 26 examples were built between 1955 and 1958 - Racing success: The Maserati 300S was a highly successful sports car racer, winning its class in many races including the 1956 and 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans.

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