Think luxurious European gran-tourers of the mid-70s, and most will gravitate towards a Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, Lamborghini Urraco or even an Aston Martin Vantage if you were feeling courageous. However, we say ignore all of those and take a good look at this pair of delightful Monteverdi’s set to go under the hammer at Gstaad.
So what exactly is a Monteverdi? Established by private Swiss racing driver Peter Monteverd in 1950, these effortlessly stylish GTs were created from a true passion for design and performance. If obnoxiously long, rear sunblind specified vehicles are your thing (you’re not alone), the 1974 375/4 is the one for you. Stretching further than its coupe sibling, the emphasis was on comfort for both passenger and driver in this one, allowing them to relax into armchair-like leather seats with enough walnut interior trims the eye could ever want, or need. This unique four-door sports saloon was lovingly produced in strictly limited numbers until the mid-1970s.
Customers of the Monteverdi could specify two engine types, both starting with seven litres, with the 7.2 litre American Hemi V8 producing 450 bhp. Both were no slouch, though, able to reach up to 150 mph in true style. The second of the two Monteverdi’s that entered the Gstaad auction is a 375S from 1969, which features the more powerful 7.2 litre beast under that long, sweeping bonnet. At every angle, the 375 S has a real presence – from its letterbox front light cluster to the sloped rear roofline; it oozes style and character. It continues inside, with rich cream leather surrounding the cabin, contrasting perfectly with the dark blue exterior shade.
If you’re looking for something with true character and style, we feel either of these are ideal candidates. Both the 375/4 and 375S will be auctioned on July 3rd, with both estimating around the 70,000 to 140,000 USD mark.