The Gran Turismo pioneer was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1947. Officially, it bore the project name Tipo A6 at the time, whereas today it is better known as the A6 1500 Gran Turismo. The vehicle was enthusiastically received by experts and the public alike.
The launch of the A6 1500 was also preceded by a careful development process dating back to 1941. At that time, the focus was on the idea of a road vehicle with a high-performance engine. The power unit of the Maserati 6CM racing car formed the basis for the development of the engine, which had a high-strength cylinder head and two camshafts. Naturally, it was adapted to the requirements of a Gran Turismo. The result was an in-line six-cylinder engine with an output of 48 kW (65 hp), which enabled a top speed of 150 km/h with a single Weber 36DCR carburetor.
The project was given the name A6 - A for Alfieri, the leader of the Maserati brothers, and 6 for the number of cylinders. The car was also fitted with independent front suspension with oscillating trapeziums and coil springs, a rigid beam with leaf springs at the rear, hydraulically controlled brakes and 16-inch diameter disc wheels (with spokes on request).
The first example, which was destined for the Geneva Motor Show, was manufactured by Pininfarina in February 1947. It had the characteristic, mechanically retractable headlights. Another significant innovation compared to the past was the tubular chassis made of components with a circular cross-section - state of the art at the time. However, it was not only the retractable headlights and the innovative chassis that attracted the attention of the public in Geneva, but also the Plexiglas sliding roof and a hood that could be raised or removed from both sides.
Overwhelming compliments and high praise quickly led to the decision to give the green light for series production - albeit with certain changes to the prototype. These included the use of more conventional headlights with a chrome-plated frame. The special Lusso version was also equipped with a distinctly modern radiator grille and larger side windows.
Production of the A6 1500 Gran Turismo continued until 1950 and included a minor update in 1948, with Pininfarina making further changes to the bodywork: The embossed trim was removed from the front fenders and two rear seats were added to the interior.
Despite the relatively limited number of 58 units produced in four years, the A6 1500 was a milestone in Maserati's history. At this time, the brand was beginning to establish itself as a manufacturer of sporty road cars. The beautiful bodywork by Pininfarina inspired subsequent generations of Maserati vehicles.
