Maserati 450S Zagato Coupé

Vehicle Overview

The Maserati 450S Zagato Coupé, affectionately known as the Costin Maserati, emerged onto the racing scene in 1957 as a formidable contender in the World Sports Car Championship. In a fiercely competitive arena where the likes of Ferrari, Jaguar, and Aston Martin reigned supreme, the 450S stood out with its potent performance and distinctive design. Powered by a robust 4.2-liter V8 engine, derived from the prototype that had showcased its prowess at the 1956 Mille Miglia and Swedish Grand Prix, chassis #4501 embodied the spirit of speed and innovation. Bodied by Zagato in a sleek and streamlined black livery, this specimen served as inspiration for the 2015 Zagato Mostro, a modern homage to its legendary predecessor designed by Norihiko Harada, Zagato’s Chief Designer. Despite a promising debut at the Buenos Aires 1000 km, where racing legends Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio piloted the 450S, a clutch failure dashed hopes of victory, marking a setback in its inaugural season. Undeterred, the car underwent a transformation under the skilled hands of Frank Costin, resulting in a redesigned coupé configuration crafted by Zagato Milano. Returning to the track, the reborn 450S faced its ultimate test at Le Mans, yet fate intervened once more, denying it the chance to showcase its full potential. Nevertheless, the legacy of the 450S endured, propelled by a series of meticulous restorations carried out by revered artisans such as Medardo Fantuzzi of Maserati, who bestowed upon it a new identity with chassis #4512. In the annals of automotive history, the Maserati 450S Zagato Coupé remains a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence on the racetrack. Its enduring allure and storied past serve as a reminder of a bygone era defined by innovation, courage, and the relentless quest for victory.