A day out in the Indy

"Hi Enrico,

since the aquisition of AM 116.47*998* last year in September I managed to put some 2,800 km on its odometer. Against all odds, the Indy proved itself as reliable as one could hope for. Apart from a rather healthy fuel consumption there have been absolutely no worries. A thorough cleaning inside and out and some leather care have been all that was necessary to keep it in good nick. Next week I'll carry out a routine service before having a reputed shop adjust the carbs and the ignition timing.

With spring 2009 feeling more like summer, could there be anything better than exploring the wonderful roads of the Black Forest in a Maserati? Well, to share the fun with a friend in another iconic 70's Italian supercar should make things even better, and that's exactly what we did today.

While purists may wonder whether "hybrids" like the De Tomaso with its American Ford Cleveland engine are real thoroughbreds there is no doubt that the Pantera is an extremely capable machine. And the masculine yet subtle lines make it a true design classic.

In terms of performance it was a bit of an unfair game. With 345 bhp (checked on a rolling road dynometer) and a weight advantage of about 350 kg I stood no chance in keeping up with the De Tomaso. Modern low profile tyres versus 6 year old Michelins of 80 profile design on my Indy made things even more difficult. But this wasn't meant to be racing, just a relaxed (if not slow) drive around the winding roads of Southern Germany. Besides sheer performance there is of course something more important: the feel-good character of a classic car. And that's where the Indy (and other Maseratis) really shine; acres of soft leather, a thinly rimmed wooden steering wheel, and that wonderful smooth sound of the quad cam engine. Driving an Indy is a two-finger-affair, such is the delicacy of its design. Windows down, yet no buffeting, lots of low down torque, proper brakes, compliant suspension - even by today's standards the Indy is a powerful yet civilised car.

On our trip we visited an (anonymous) place that kept a few secrets. Inside, some lovely, mostly Italian classics made our hearts beat faster, but the real gem was found sitting outside. Gangloff didn't only produce bodies for Talbot Lago but also created an amazing shape for Berna, a Swiss coach company. Its streamlined shell puts modern designs to shame, and would you believe that all windows wind down? Powered by a 130 bhp straight six, it may be slower than it looks, but it nevertheless impresses. Will it ever be restored? I sure hope so!

The giant mosquito that requested a lift in the Pantera, by the way, didn't stay on the bonnet for too long. Despite the tightness of the roads, we got up to 100 mph, which seemed to be too much for a little insect.

All the best,

Matthias."