1965 Maserati Mexico Prototype Vignale 1 of 1 *103*022* Not 5000GT

Description for Maserati Vignale Prototype Mexico 1965

Here is finally for auction the infamous 1 of 1 1965 Maserati Mexico Prototype Vignale stamped or VINed as a Maserati 5000GT (*103*022*) which after extensive research, investigations and inquiries to the top informed Maseratisti in the US and Europe as well as the Maserati historical archives the truth about this car (I truly believe this time) is finally out. With the great and unmatchable help from my friend Andy at Automobili Ramirez that constructed a full research,history and contacted Maserati and other marque specialists, the dilemma is finally solved.
So here is the unabridged version:
1) The 5000GT # AM103*022* was originally manufactured in 1961, Allemano body, and it was delivered in Mexico
2) In August 1965 the vehicle went back to the Factory (after a crash), as requested by the current Owner of the car at that time, Mr. Barroso.
3) In occasion of Mr. Barroso's further visit at the Maserati Factory, an estimate for the complete repair work was presented to him but he asked to exchange the broken car with a new one bodied by Vignale.
4) On 15th October 1965 Mr. Barroso accepted a Factory order for a new car. On the order is reported that the model of the new car was the type 101/11 (we suppose the Mexico prototype), external colour "Black" interiors in "Senape" (Tan) leather. Furthermore, on the order is clearly written to stamp the car with the number 103*022* (our supposition about this fact is that Mr. Barroso asked to have the new car stamped with the same numbers of the previous broken car in order to avoid to pay importation taxes in Mexico).
6) Finally the new car was shipped to Mr. Barroso in Mexico.
And:
On the Vignale stand at the Salone di Torino in 1965 there appeared an original 2-door 4-seater prototype designed by Giovanni Michelotti mounted on a Maserati tubular chassis with a 4.9-litre V8 engine. This car had been commissioned by an important person. It is thought that as the5000 GTwas now out of production, this important client desiring such a car, commissioned Vignale to build one.
Although the above info says it was fitted with the 4.9 liter engine I have not being able to verify that. At first glimpse it looks it's a 4.2 engine maybe a 4.7 but I will have it checked out before the end of the auction and clarify that important detail.
The car does not run and has not being started in more than 30 years. There is no ignition key.
Original Borrani wire wheels are all in good condition although there is no spare wheel. The trunk is empty so no jack nor toolkit is present. The interior is in excellent condition but of course it needs to be gone thru
a clear title is in the process to be obtained and should be ready by the time the auction ends.
The car will be titled as a 1962 Maserati GT since all the documentation, door tag and paperwork available indicates that was registered as a 1962 vehicle.
I am selling the car on behalf of a friend so if there are questions I do not know please allow me the time to reach him and ask him so I can give an exact answer.
This Maserati prototype shows no signs of rust anywhere, it is extremely solid with no indication that was ever involved in any accidents.
Once sold I can assist and coordinate shipping of the car in the USA or overseas.
PLEASE NOTE THAT:Although this car was VINed or stamped as a 5000GT THIS IS NOT A 5000GT
This is a Maserati Vignale Prototype eventually called Mexico 1 of 1 car
Although it does resemble a Mexico it differs in many ways.
It is wider longer and cut more sportier in the back
I can be contacted via ebay messages and sequentially via cell for any questions and set up an appointment to inspect the car with any serious buyer
My studio is located in Gardena California near LAX