As the 1960s progressed, Maserati made great strides in asserting itself as the go-to Italian manufacturer for attractive cars in the grand tourer mould.

Of its contemporary model line-up, the marque’s 3500 GT and 5000 GT were stunning examples of coachbuilt coupé and convertible design.

In 1963, the Mistral was introduced to replace the 3500 GT and was the company’s last model to feature its signature twin-spark, double-overhead cam straight-six engine derived from Maserati’s successful racing endeavours.

While still in ownership of the Orsi family and prior to its takeover by Citroën, Maserati revealed the Ghibli, Mexico, and Sebring in quick succession to join the Mistral and bolster its GT offering.

When production of the Mistral commenced, a stiffer and shorter chassis composed of square-section tubular elements allowed the new model to distinguish itself from the Sebring by its more sporting character.

Further advances were made from a stylistic perspective, with Pietro Frua...