Stunning 1960 Maserati Birdcage up for grabs at RM Monaco

[Haltech]

Filed under: Classics, Auctions, Maserati, Racing

1960 Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage - Click above for high-res image gallery

While perhaps not as well known or instantly recognizable as the Ferrari 250 TR or the Jaguar D-Type, the Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage is one of great racecars in that same era. Named for its intricate tubular space frame, the Birdcage was built by Maserati as a privateer racecar. With a weight of just over 1300 pounds and 250 horsepower from the 2.9-liter inline four, the little Maserati proved to be a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack. The car's most famous wins include victories at the 1960 and 1961 at the Nurburgring 1000km race.

With just 17 built, the Tipo 61 Birdcage is a rare and desirable collector car, and it's big news when one comes up for sale. RM Auctions, however, has announced that one will be offered at their upcoming Monaco auction next month, and prominent car collectors are sure to take note. The car, chassis #2470, was originally raced in the United States throughout the 1960s with great success before being sold to a European owner in the 1970s. The current owner purchased the car in 2004 and has competed in several vintage racing events since. According to RM, this particular Birdcage is one of the most original in existence and even comes with a spare racing engine in addition to the original motor. The estimated price? €2,400,000 to €2,600,000. Hit the jump for more details on the Tipo 61 Birdcage and a detailed history of the particular example up for sale courtesy of RM.


Gallery: 1960 Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage



[Source: RM Auctions | Image: RM Auctions, Michael Zumbrunn]Continue reading Stunning 1960 Maserati Birdcage up for grabs at RM Monaco

Stunning 1960 Maserati Birdcage up for grabs at RM Monaco originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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