Maserati Mistral Spyder (1963-70)

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles
Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

COMMON FAULTS
The Maserati Mistral, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners have reported:

1. **Electrical Problems**: The Mistral is known for having electrical issues, which can be challenging to diagnose and fix due to the car's age and the complexity of its wiring.
2. **Rust**: Rust is a common problem in older cars, and the Mistral is no exception. Pay special attention to the chassis and body panels.
3. **Engine Issues**: The inline-six engine, while powerful, can suffer from wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep it running smoothly.
4. **Transmission Problems**: Some owners have reported issues with the manual transmission, including difficulty shifting gears and transmission noise.
5. **Cooling System**: The cooling system can be prone to leaks and overheating, especially in older models that haven't been well-maintained.

If you're considering purchasing a Maserati Mistral, it's essential to have a thorough inspection done by a specialist who is familiar with classic Maserati's. This can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
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Engines
The Maserati Mistral came with three different inline-six engines:

1. **3.5 L (3485 cc)**: This engine produced around 235 bhp (175 kW) at 5500 rpm.
2. **3.7 L (3692 cc)**: This engine produced around 245 bhp (183 kW) at 5500 rpm.
3. **4.0 L (4014 cc)**: This engine produced around 265 bhp (198 kW) at 5200 rpm.

These engines were known for their performance and reliability, making the Mistral a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts.
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Performance
The Maserati Mistral offers impressive performance for a classic car. Here are some key performance specifications:

- **Top Speed**: Approximately 235 km/h (146 mph).
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around 8.3 seconds.
- **Engine Power**: The 4.0 L engine produces about 265 bhp (198 kW) at 5200 rpm.
- **Torque**: 392 Nm (289 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm.

These figures made the Mistral a formidable sports car in its time and still make it a desirable classic today.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Maserati Mistral was designed by the renowned Italian car designer **Pietro Frua**. Frua was one of the most prominent car designers in Italy during the 1960s, and his work on the Mistral is considered one of his masterpieces. The bodywork for the Mistral was crafted by Maggiora of Turin.

The Maserati Mistral had the following dimensions:

- **Wheelbase**: 2,400 mm (94.5 in)
- **Length**: 4,500 mm (177.2 in)
- **Width**: 1,675 mm (65.9 in)
- **Height**: 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
- **Kerb Weight**: 1,430 kg (3,153 lb) (dry)

It's a beautifully proportioned classic car with a sleek and elegant design.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spare parts for the Maserati Mistral in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:

1. [Eurospares](https://www.eurospares.co.uk/Maserati/Mistral): They offer a wide range of genuine and OEM parts for the Maserati Mistral.
2. [McGrath Maserati](https://parts.mcgrathmaserati.co.uk/category-mistral): They provide new and used parts for various Maserati models, including the Mistral.

As for garage services in Northern Ireland, there are several options available:

1. [ClickMechanic](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/maserati): They have a network of vetted and qualified mechanics who can service Maserati vehicles in Northern Ireland. You can get an instant quote and book a service online.
2. [Approved Garages](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/maserati/): They offer a network of garages that specialize in Maserati repairs, including servicing, MOTs, and diagnostics.
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Racing
The Maserati Mistral itself did not have a significant racing history. However, it was powered by the same inline-six engine that was used in the Maserati 250F Grand Prix cars, which had a successful racing career. The 250F won eight Grand Prix races between 1954 and 1960 and helped Juan Manuel Fangio secure the Formula One World Championship in 1957.

The Mistral was more of a grand tourer designed for luxury and performance on the road rather than the racetrack. Its design and engineering were influenced by Maserati's racing heritage, but it was not a dedicated racing car.
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Valuation
The value of a Maserati Mistral Spyder in the UK can vary depending on its condition, history, and originality. Recent listings show prices ranging from **£130,000 to £200,000**. Exceptional examples with well-documented histories and in pristine condition can fetch even higher prices.
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