1955 Maserati 150S Spyder, Chassis #1657
History: The Maserati 150S was a revolutionary design. It was one of the most technically advanced designs of its time. With its tubular chassis and very aerodynamic lightweight aluminum body. It has a balanced weight distribution which enables optimal handling and performance. Powered by a 1.5L inline four-cylinder overhead cam engine with a twin spark cylinder head, which produced over 165 hp. This power was maximized by an advanced transmission, independent front suspension and a De Dion rear axle. Making this stunning sports racing car a race-winning design and as well as one of the most beautiful cars of the era.
Maserati factory records show delivery to Briggs Cunningham in September of 1955 with 1.5-liter engine #1657 and a spare 2-liter engine #2400. It is the 2nd of 8 150S built in 1955 from a total production of 26. This is the first to run a factory 2-liter engine. Briggs Cunningham was noted for his Americas Cup sailing prowess, the Cunningham Sports Car, and his racing success at the Lemans 24 hours amongst other famous races. Briggs Cunningham first race in the 150S is the Presidents Cup at Hagerstown, Maryland home of Fairchild aviation and the AFB circuit in the presence of President Eisenhower. He finished 1st in class and 5th overall. The 150S went on to be raced at the Sebring 12 hours and numerous other USA races. Cunningham then installed the 2-liter factory engine in the car and did many 200S updates. (A more complete race history to be listed elsewhere in this presentation). Then selling on to noted racing driver and flight engineer William Wonder of Glen Cove New York who continued to race the 150S in a dozen important USA races before selling it to Richard Dicker of Scarsdale New York. Discovered by famed collector car aficionado Mark Smith of the Old Philadelphia Motor Car Company who stated, “it is in incredible original condition”. It goes through a series of owners known to be some of the world’s most noted collectors and Maserati experts. Then sympathetically restored by Mario Linke’s shop Methusalem in Koln, Germany. Preserving the original body, interior alloy panels, dash, seats, engine, transmission, rear axle housing, fuel tank, and more.
Raced at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, the Le Mans Classic and the most prestigious of historic racing events. Selling in 2016 to the USA. In 2023 it is restored to a high level of perfection still retaining its original components and entered in the Pebble Beach Concours. One of the most famous, best documented and most original Maserati 150S available.
Condition: Striking in its appearance and colors. A stunning restoration and Pebble Beach, Concours participant. First sympathetically restored by Mario Linke shop in Koln, Germany, around 2010-12. All major components saved and refurbished. Original body, interior alloy panels, engine, transmission, rear axle, fuel tank, seats and many other unique Maserati components. Then a refresh to a high level done in 2022 by Geoff Hellers Driving Machines in Ohio. Entered in the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours. An example of Maserati’s design and engineering excellence. Ready to be raced at the premier historic racing events, driven on unique rallies or shown at Concours.
Documents: Maserati Modena Factory build sheet, Maserati Corporation of America, Automobile Club Storico Italiano. Factory paperwork to Briggs Cunningham, the 1st owner, showing the car’s build and spare engine. Featured in Joe Finn’s book on Maserati. Documented continuous ownership. Current FIA HTP papers.
Of Note: Eligible to take place in the great historic race venues around the world. Monaco Historic Grand Prix, Goodwood Revival, Lemans Classic, Mille Miglia Historica, RMMR and more.
Please call 858-459-3500 for details.