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 Tipo 61 Birdcage 1960 is a unique, rare and stunning supercar that is a perfect combination of speed, technology, and elegance. This particular car was produced by Maserati in 1960 as a racing car, and it still maintains the same original design, precision, and performance it was known for in its heyday.
This car is called the "Birdcage" due to its lightweight, spaceframe chassis, which was constructed from 200 small-diameter steel tubes that were welded together. The chassis was remarkably strong despite being light, and it was able to withstand immense stress and pressure, making it the perfect racing car.
The car was equipped with a V12 engine that packed a punch, generating an impressive 250 horsepower. The engine itself was composed of aluminum alloy and was designed to maximize airflow, boost output and improve performance. With its advanced internal combustion system, state-of-the-art carburetors, and a four-speed manual gearbox, the Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage 1960 was a racing marvel that dominated the track during its time.
The suspension system in the Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage 1960 featured double wishbones at the front and a De Dion rear axle with two longitudinal leaf-springs. This gave the supercar excellent stability and handling, and it kept the driver connected to the road at all times.
The steering was also uniquely designed to be fast and responsive, using worm-gear and sector technology to provide a direct connection between the driver and the car. The drum brakes were enormous for their time and were exceptionally reliable, giving the driver the confidence to push the car to the limits when racing.
The bodywork of the Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage 1960 was handcrafted and incredibly stylish. It had a streamlined design with a low height, and it was coated in a stunning soft red hue that further enhanced its aesthetic appeal. The car had a long, swooping hood and side vents to aid in cooling, and the cockpit was equally impeccable, with leather seats and an elegant steering wheel.
In conclusion, the Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage 1960 was a masterpiece designed for racing. With its superbly detailed and precise engineering, advanced suspensions, handling and braking systems, it was a car that embodied Maserati's vision for quality, beauty, and performance. Today, the car is still revered, and it remains a rare and valuable classic that car enthusiasts aspire to own.
Milestones
- 1959: Maserati Tipo 61, also called the Birdcage, is unveiled at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. - 1960: The first Birdcage is delivered to Robson Leather Company Ltd. in London, England. - 1960: The Birdcage wins its first race at the hands of Stirling Moss and Dan Gurney at the Targa Florio in Sicily. - 1960: Maserati creates a modified version of the Birdcage called the Tipo 61/60, which features a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics. - 1961: The Birdcage wins the 1000km Nürburgring race in Germany with drivers Lloyd Casner and Masten Gregory. - 1961: Maserati introduces a third evolution of the Birdcage, referred to as the Tipo 61/61, which has a revised suspension system and enhanced handling capabilities. - 1962: The Birdcage sets a new lap record at the Sebring International Raceway in Florida with a time of 3:17.0, driven by Stirling Moss. - 1962: The Tipo 61/61 wins the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in the hands of drivers Lloyd Casner and Bruce McLaren. - 1963: Maserati ceases production of the Birdcage, having built just 23 examples in total.Technical
- Engine: Four-cylinder inline engine - Displacement: 2.9 liters - Power output: 250 horsepower at 7,000 rpm - Top speed: 170 mph - Transmission: Four-speed manual - Chassis: Tubular space frame - Suspension: Front and rear double wishbones - Brakes: Disc brakes all around - Weight: Around 1,300 pounds - Wheelbase: 2,200 mm (86.6 in) - Length: 3,866 mm (152.2 in) - Width: 1,371 mm (54.0 in) - Height: 991 mm (39.0 in) at the windshield - Production years: 1959-1961 - Number produced: 16CLASSIC CAR MATCHER