This is the 1992 Maserati Barchetta (chassis number THB CMM LLI) finished in a beautiful red over a plaid interior. The Maserati Barchetta is a mid-engined racecar designed by Carlo Gaino of the Italian design house, Synthesis Design. The Barchetta was developed to compete in the one-make racing series, ‘Grantrofeo Barchetta’, which took place in 1992 and 1993 around various locations in Italy & Europe. This example shown here was raced extensively in period during this series, which consisted of A total of 16 races held over the two Grantrofeo Barchetta championships. Six races were held in 1992 at Varano, Vallelunga, Bari, Pergusa, Varano, and a grand finale at the Bologna Motor Show. The next year, 10 races were held at Varano, Pergusa, Misano, Mugello, Monza, Zandvoort, Mugello again, Jyllandsringen, Magione and Vallelunga. The Barchetta used formula 1 geometrics and body panels made entirely with carbon fiber in order to achieve a total weight of just 1,709lbs. Not to mention, the Barchetta was also one of the last models ever produced under the ownership of De Tomaso. All of the Barchettas, including the one-off road variant, were constructed in the De Tomaso factory in Modena. Post production, In May of 1993, 17 years after having rescued Maserati from liquidation, Alejandro De Tomaso sold his 51% stake in Maserati to FIAT, which then became the sole owner. After this, it was decided to use the Barchetta’s underpinnings towards an actual production car, which would eventually go on to become the De Tomaso Guarà. The Guarà was also designed by Carlo Gaino, and was built in 52 units from 1994-2004, all based on this Barchetta racer from the 90’s.
How many made? 1 of 17 (including the one-off road car)
Engine: 2.0L (1,996 cc) 90°, 24-valve twin-turbocharged AM501 V6 producing 315hp
Debut:1992 Grantrofeo Barchetta Series
Top Speed: around 180mph
0-60mph: around 4.1 seconds
Photo Credit: @911_blaine
Research: @rarecarsonly