Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage Drogo Spyder

The Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage Drogo Spyder, chassis number 2472, was produced in 1961 as the final example of the Maserati Birdcage series. The model featured an intricate tubular spaceframe chassis designed by Giulio Alfieri, composed of approximately 200 small-diameter steel tubes. This structural arrangement provided high torsional rigidity while minimizing weight, which contributed to the vehicle’s competitive edge in endurance racing. Chassis 2472 was initially delivered to the American Camoradi racing team, led by Lloyd “Lucky” Casner. During the 1961 racing season, the vehicle participated in several international events, including the 1000 km Nürburgring, where it achieved a class victory. The car sustained a significant accident at the 4-Hour Pescara Grand Prix, which necessitated extensive repairs and led to its subsequent rebodying. The damaged chassis was entrusted to Carrozzeria Sports Cars, commonly referred to as Carrozzeria Drogo, under the direction of Piero Drogo. The vehicle was extensively modified into a Spyder configuration, with a redesigned low-profile body that incorporated aerodynamic influences similar to the Ferrari “Breadvan.” A notable mechanical update included replacing the original De Dion rear axle with a double wishbone rear suspension derived from the Maserati Tipo 63, intended to improve handling dynamics. Following its reconfiguration, the Maserati Tipo 61 Drogo Spyder continued to compete in select racing events but did not secure major victories. In 1964, the car was returned to Maserati and subsequently stored for several decades. It was acquired in 1999 by the collector Umberto Panini and is presently exhibited at the Panini Motor Museum in Modena, Italy. The Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage Drogo Spyder chassis 2472 is a historically significant example of mid-20th-century racing automobile engineering. Its complex chassis construction and later aerodynamic and mechanical modifications illustrate the innovation and adaptation characteristic of endurance racing vehicles of the period. The vehicle remains a notable artifact within the context of Italian motorsport heritage.