1958 Maserati TIPO 420/M/58 ELDORADO

The Maserati Tipo 420/M/58 Eldorado 1958, also known as the "Eldorado Special," was a specially designed race car that was created specifically for the Indianapolis 500 race in 1958. This vehicle was one of the very few Maserati race cars that was built with a rear-engine layout, in contrast to its predecessors that had front-engine configurations. This change in design was done to improve the vehicle's handling and increase its overall performance.

The vehicle featured an all-aluminum body that was designed to optimize the flow of air over the car, reducing drag and improving its overall handling. The car's sleek, aerodynamic design was also helped by the use of a long, low nose that flowed smoothly into a curved rear deck. The aluminum body was mounted on a tubular steel frame that provided excellent rigidity and helped to reduce the vehicle's weight.

Under the hood, the Maserati Tipo 420/M/58 Eldorado 1958 was powered by a 4.2-liter, fuel-injected, four-cylinder engine. The engine used dual overhead camshafts and was capable of producing up to 400 horsepower at 8,500 rpm. This engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission that provided smooth, precise shifting, allowing the driver to quickly and easily shift gears, even at high speeds.

In terms of suspension, the Maserati Tipo 420/M/58 Eldorado 1958 featured a front independent suspension system with double wishbones and coil springs. The rear suspension was comprised of a solid axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs. The car was also equipped with hydraulic shock absorbers at all four corners, providing excellent ride quality and stability even at extreme speeds.

The Maserati Tipo 420/M/58 Eldorado 1958 was equipped with powerful disc brakes that helped to bring the car to a stop quickly and effectively. The front brakes were inboard-mounted, while the rear brakes were mounted outboard. The brakes were controlled by a dual-circuit hydraulic system that provided reliable stopping power, even in the most demanding racing conditions.

Overall, the Maserati Tipo 420/M/58 Eldorado 1958 was a highly advanced and meticulously designed race car that pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time. Its rear-engine configuration, all-aluminum body, and powerful engine made it a true pioneer in the world of racing, and it remains a highly sought-after collector's item to this day.