OSCA MT4 1500: The Maserati Brothers' Finest Creation
In 1947, the Maserati brothers—Ernesto, Ettore, and Bindo—embarked on a new chapter of their automotive legacy. Having sold their shares in Maserati, the brothers were now free to pursue their passion for designing and racing cars once again. Out of this new freedom, Officine Specializzate Costruzione Automobili (O.S.C.A.) was born, an automotive company focused on building race-winning cars. Among their creations, the OSCA MT4 1500 stands out as a masterwork of post-war engineering and racing pedigree.
.jpeg)
The OSCA MT4 1500 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the brothers' craftsmanship. A lightweight and agile car, the MT4 gained a reputation for its competitiveness in motorsport, dominating races around the world.
• Sebring 1954 Victory: Perhaps the MT4's most significant win came at the 1954 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the most grueling endurance races of the time.
• 1955 Class Wins: The car's racing success continued with class victories at iconic events such as the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio, the Dolomite Rally, and the Giro di Sicilia.
With its advanced engineering, the MT4 was not only a favorite of private racers but also established OSCA as a leading name in international motorsport during the 1950s.
The MT4 (Maserati Tipo 4 cilindri) initially featured a 1092cc engine but was later upgraded to a 1453cc and eventually a 1491cc engine to create the MT4 1500 variant.
• Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, twin overhead camshafts.
• Power Output: Approximately 120 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, depending on tuning and configuration.
• Chassis: Tubular frame construction for reduced weight and increased rigidity.
• Bodywork: Aluminum body panels with designs ranging from barchetta (open-top) to coupé styles, often crafted by renowned coachbuilders like Morelli and Frua.
• Front: Independent with transverse leaf springs.
• Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.
• Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels, which was standard for the era.
• Transmission: 4 or 5-speed manual gearbox, allowing drivers to optimize performance across various racing conditions.
• OSCA secured an overall victory with drivers Stirling Moss and Bill Lloyd behind the wheel of an MT4 1450.
• Regular class victories in the early 1950s, showcasing the car's reliability and speed in endurance racing.
• Notable performances in one of the toughest road races, emphasizing the MT4's handling and durability.
• OSCA cars were popular among privateers due to their competitive nature and were frequently seen in events across Europe and North America.
The car currently available for sale is MT4 Chassis Number 1148, one of approximately 78 units ever produced, making it a truly rare collectible. Its Spyder coachwork is among the most desirable, reflecting both elegant design and racing capability.
• Original U.S. Ownership: Sold in 1954 to Harry Allen Chapman in the United States, this car was actively raced by Chapman and co-driver Bumpy Bell throughout Arizona and California in the mid-1950s.
• Road & Track Feature: After competing at Minter Field in 1955, the car was featured in the August 1955 issue of Road & Track magazine, where it was praised for its performance during a test drive.
• Subsequent Owners: After changing hands, Chassis 1148 was sold to racer Chick Leson, who continued its racing career at Buchanan Field, Salinas, and Santa Barbara, solidifying its motorsport credentials.
By the 1960s, the car had gone through several owners before ending up in the care of John Hunholz in 1976, a race car enthusiast and doctor. Hunholz began the restoration process, but the project remained unfinished. As a result, MT4 Chassis 1148 sat in his garage for over 45 years, preserved but never fully restored.
This car offers a remarkable restoration opportunity for the discerning collector:
A highly desirable combination for collectors, Chassis 1148 retains its original components, making it an authentic piece of automotive history.
The engine, a 1500cc twin-plug per cylinder setup, is the original for this chassis and is visually in excellent condition. The car is powered by a pair of Weber 39 DC03 carburetors, the correct specification for this model.
While the engine's internal mechanical condition is currently unknown, it is a solid foundation for a thorough restoration, making this car an exciting prospect for bringing back to its full racing potential.
The OSCA MT4 1500 was more than just a race car; it was a statement of engineering brilliance from the Maserati brothers. Every detail of the car, from its compact yet powerful engine to its aerodynamic design, was crafted with precision and performance in mind.
Few cars have such a decorated racing history, with victories in some of the most prestigious races in the world. Owning an OSCA MT4 is akin to owning a piece of post-war racing history.
With its original components intact, Chassis 1148 offers a rare opportunity to restore a highly significant race car to its former glory.
Once restored, this car will be eligible for some of the most prestigious motoring events in the world, including historic racing series, concours d'elegance, and vintage car rallies. The OSCA MT4 1500 is a coveted entry into these elite gatherings.
The OSCA MT4 1500 is not just a car—it's an investment in the history of racing. With its limited production numbers, impeccable racing pedigree, and potential for restoration, Chassis 1148 represents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike.
Explore the chance to own and restore this rare piece of Italian racing heritage, and make history come alive again on the world's most prestigious stages.
.jpg)
