The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe 1957 represents a truly legendary example of high-performance automotive engineering. Built specifically to compete in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, this stunning vehicle is widely regarded as one of the greatest sports cars of all time.
The engine that powers the Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe 1957 is an absolute masterpiece of design and engineering. Featuring a 4.5-liter V8 configuration with twin overhead camshafts, this powerhouse is capable of producing an astounding 400 horsepower at 7000 rpm. With a top speed of over 180 miles per hour, this car is truly a force to be reckoned with.
The chassis of the Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe 1957 is constructed entirely of aluminum, making it both incredibly lightweight and remarkably strong. This allows the car to be incredibly agile on the track, while still remaining stable and easy to handle even at high speeds. The suspension system is also state-of-the-art, with double wishbones at the front and a de Dion tube at the rear.
The body of the Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe 1957 is a work of art in and of itself. Designed by Frank Costin, one of the most celebrated automotive designers of his time, the sleek curves and sharp lines of this vehicle are both striking and functional. The body is constructed entirely of lightweight aluminum, giving it an aerodynamic edge that is essential for the high-speed racing for which it was designed.
Inside the vehicle, the emphasis on performance continues. The cockpit is minimalistic, with bucket seats and a minimalist dashboard that puts all of the essential controls within easy reach of the driver. The steering wheel is free of any unnecessary clutter, allowing the driver to focus entirely on the task at hand – piloting this incredible machine to victory.
Overall, the Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe 1957 is an incredible feat of engineering and design. With its powerful engine, lightweight chassis, and sleek body, this car represents the pinnacle of high-performance sports car design. It is no wonder that it is still regarded as one of the greatest cars ever made, and a true icon of the golden age of motorsport.
Milestones
- 1956: Maserati announces plans to compete in the 1957 Le Mans race with a new model, the 450 S. - 1957: Maserati unveils the Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe at the Geneva Auto Show. - 1957: The car makes its racing debut at the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring, finishing 4th overall. - 1957: The Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe makes its Le Mans debut, but mechanical issues force it to retire early. - 1957: Maserati driver Jean Behra wins the Supercortemaggiore at Monza in the car. - 1957: Stirling Moss and Harry Schell finish 2nd in the car at the Pescara Grand Prix. - 1958: The car is sold to American racer Briggs Cunningham, who campaigns it in various races throughout the year. - 1959: The car is retired from racing after a successful career. - 1996: The Maserati 450 S Le Mans Costin Coupe is restored to its original condition by a team of mechanics and begins appearing at classic car shows and events. - 2006: The car is sold at auction for $4.62 million.Technical
- Engine: 4.5-liter V8 - Power: 400+ horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Top speed: 180 mph - Acceleration: 0-60 mph in approximately 4 seconds - Brakes: 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes - Suspension: independent front and rear with coil springs and shock absorbers - Chassis: tubular steel frame - Body: designed by Frank Costin, made of lightweight aluminum - Weight: approximately 2,000 lbs - Fuel capacity: 40 gallons - Racing history: participated in the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans, driven by Stirling Moss and Harry Schell, but did not finish due to mechanical issues. It also competed in various other endurance races throughout the late 1950s. - Rarity: only four Maserati 450 S Costin coupes were built.SUPERMIND TRIVIA