A little known fact – if you Google Maserati and search for its English translation it means “holy cow.” Quite apropos, I think.
Maserati was established on December 1, 1914 in Bologna, Italy just a few months after the start of WWI. Officine Alfieri Maserati branded itself to stand for state-of-the-art engineering and design, focused on racing engines and spark plug efficiencies. Maserati is headquartered in Modena, Italy and has been since 1937.
In a family of seven brothers, Mario Maserati wasn’t so much into motoring but was skilled in drawing. At the request of a family friend, Mario started the tradition of the Maserati trident emblem in 1920, taking inspiration from the Fountain of Neptune (god of the sea) at the Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, where the Maserati family was from. Mario also incorporated the blue and red colors from the Flag of Bologna.
Each of the Trident tines symbolized the Maserati three-pronged method; first, render an unforgettable driving experience; second showcase modernized technological advances and third; proudly display hand crafted “grandezza” (Italian for “greatness”).
Through the decades Maserati has been owned by Orsi, Citroen, GEPI, a small percentage by Chrysler, de Tomaso, Fiat, Ferrari and a partnership with Alfa Romeo. The Maserati 8CTF was the first Italian-made car to win the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940.
Maserati’s low profile valance, aggressive stance and assertive rumble from a receding rev hang makes this car a true joy to drive…unless, like Joe Walsh, your Maserati (1964, 5000 GT ) does 185, causing you to lose your license, and now you don’t drive. Even still, life’s been good, so far.
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Jason Paynter is a classic car appraiser, collector and unabashed enthusiast. He lives in Louisville, KY with his beautiful wife and three sons who are (heaven help him) almost all of driving age. If you have questions for Jason, or need appraisal services, please contact him, jason@gdherring.com.
