Lot 420: Maserati Indy 4.7-Litre Coup�

Maserati followed up its stunning, Ghia-styled Ghibli two-seater with the equally elegant Indy 2+2, though the latter, announced in 1968 and noteworthy as the first unitary construction Maserati, was the work of Carrozzeria Vignale. The Indy first appeared publicly on Vignale's stand at the 1968 Turin Motor Show and was officially launched by Maserati at the Geneva Salon in 1969. Running gear was conventional, with independent front suspension, live rear axle and four-wheel disc brakes, while the power unit was - initially - the Modena firm's well-tried, 4.1-litre, four-cam V8, with 4.7- and 4.9-litre versions following. With 260bhp on tap, the top speed of Maserati's luxury four-seater was in the region of 150mph, a figure the subsequent larger-engined versions improved upon. In 4.7-litre form the Indy's claimed maximum increased to 292bhp, which was good enough for a top speed within a whisker of 160mph, with 0-100mph achievable in under 18 seconds. The sleek Vignale coachwork was such that the Maserati Indy was able to carry four people in relative comfort without impairing its performance as a sports car. Autocar magazine's summary was one of almost unalloyed praise: 'Classic touring car with vee-8 engine and 160mph potential. Beautifully smooth power unit, silky gearbox and light, power assisted steering. Good brakes, balanced handling, comfortable ride, superb stability. High price but few disappointments.' An automatic transmission model, this rare right-hand drive Indy was acquired by Barry Burnett (its fourth owner) in 1988 and used during the early 1990s as everyday transport. Last MoT'd in 1992 before being 'retired' to the collection, the car will require re-commissioning before returning to the road. Offered with Swansea V5. No reserve.