Maserati Mexico

Vehicle Overview

This Maserati Mexico, designed by Pietro Frua, is a distinctive example of bespoke automotive craftsmanship. Featuring dual headlamps mounted under the front bumper, it deviates from the standard Maserati Mexico’s design, enhancing its unique profile. The dashboard is adorned with luxurious walnut wood, reflecting Frua’s commitment to high-quality materials and finishes. Additionally, the car’s design includes the removal of the Mistral coupe’s reversed air vent trim on the front fenders and a slight increase in the spacing between the door and the rear wheel well, further distinguishing it from its contemporaries. At the heart of this Maserati Mexico Frua is a powerful 4.2-liter Maserati V8 engine, producing over 300 horsepower and 300 ft/lbs of torque. This engine enables the Mexico to reach speeds exceeding 160 MPH, offering both impressive performance and a thrilling driving experience. The car is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, hydraulic dual-circuit braking system, and air conditioning, features that highlight its blend of performance and luxury. Originally commissioned by Maserati racing privateer Franco Rol, this vehicle reflects Rol’s significant contribution to motorsport. Rol participated in five Formula 1 World Championships and competed in numerous French and Italian Grand Prix events. His notable achievements include a second-place finish in the 1949 Targa Florio, seventh place in 1950, a fourth-place finish at Pau, and a ninth-place finish at Monza. Despite his impressive results, Rol’s true talent was often most apparent in his qualifying times, where he frequently outperformed well-known Maserati competitors such as Louis Chiron, Reg Parnell, Prince Bira, and Felice Bonetto. This Maserati Mexico by Frua not only showcases the bespoke design and performance enhancements of the era but also serves as a testament to the racing legacy of Franco Rol.