OSCA MV 1700 GTZ Spider

Vehicle Overview

The OSCA MV 1700 GTZ Spider was a limited-production open variant of the OSCA MV 1700 GTZ, developed by Officine Specializzate Costruzioni Automobili (OSCA) and presented in 1965. The model was the final evolution of OSCA’s series of gran turismo cars prior to the cessation of production operations in 1967. It was constructed using a modified version of the tubular chassis architecture employed in earlier OSCA GT models. The engine was a 1,699 cubic centimetre inline four-cylinder unit with dual overhead camshafts, derived from the 1.6-litre OSCA competition engine architecture. It was constructed in alloy and equipped with twin Weber carburettors. Output was rated at approximately 95 horsepower. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, driving the rear wheels. The suspension system employed independent components at the front and rear, consistent with earlier OSCA practice. Braking was provided by hydraulic discs on all four wheels. The bodywork was executed by Carrozzeria Zagato of Milan. The Spider variant was constructed in aluminium and featured a two-seat open configuration with a shortened windscreen and a compact cockpit. The design adhered to Zagato’s prevailing formal language of the period, including minimal ornamentation, smooth panel transitions, and aerodynamic restraint. The vehicle was first displayed at the 1965 Turin Motor Show. Only one known example of the MV 1700 GTZ Spider is believed to have been constructed. No public record of the chassis or engine number has been identified in marque literature or registration archives. There is no known documentation of its delivery, sale, or subsequent ownership. The current location and condition of the sole example are unverified. The design is attributed to Zagato’s internal team, with no individual stylist named in surviving documentation. The Spider variant, while closely related to the MV 1700 GTZ coupé, differed in layout and detail execution, representing the final coachbuilt OSCA project before the closure of operations. The OSCA MV 1700 GTZ Spider remains largely undocumented beyond photographic references and period show reports. It is considered one of the rarest post-war OSCA derivatives and a final example of the marque’s cooperation with Zagato.