O.S.C.A. 1600 GT

Vehicle Overview

Michelotti opened his own studio in 1959 and his first build was this prototype, a l’iat-based coupe with a 1600 cc engine modified by the Maserati brothers to have a new head, cams and induction system. The dual Weber carburetors are mounted between the valve covers in the center of the head, a unique engine configuration. The body was developed to be a two-seater touring car, with room for luggage behind the seats. It has a Pagoda roof, subsequently employed by the Mercedes-Benz SL class, and indicator lights on the rear of the front wings. The prototype was shown in Geneva, Paris and Turin, each time wearing a different livery. Unfortunately, the car was then disassembled and abandoned in Florida only to be rediscovered and restored to its original red and black colors.