Maserati Tipo 61 highlight of Geelong Revival media launch

Obviously, these cars don't appear for sale too often, so when Graham, a long-term racing competitor and enthusiast spotted one for sale, he didn't want to miss out. "I saw it advertised in '07 in America, in a place called Scotts Valley. I've always wanted one, so I jumped on an aeroplane and went over and bought it!," Graham said.

The 'birdcage' nickname for these potent sports racers came from the chassis, which was made up of 200 separate sections of small diameter tubing. The theory behind this was that the spaceframe construction of light tubing would be as rigid as a traditional chassis and frame, but at greatly reduced weight. In the case of Graham's car, the whole thing weighs only 600 kilograms, including the aerodynamic aluminium body.

Originally built as the 'Tipo 60' with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine, the need for more power saw that engine bored out to its maximum safe tolerance of 2.9 litres. In this form, it was known as the Tipo 61.
"It's quite quick, because it's got 250 horsepower," Graham explained. In the interest of better weight distribution the front-mounted engine is canted back towards the driver. Brakes are discs all round, unusual for Maserati of this period.

Along with a growing group of motorsport enthusiasts, Graham is looking forward to the revival of the original Geelong Speed Trials as part of the JUST CARS GEELONG REVIVAL 2012.
"I'll certainly be there, that's for sure," Graham said. The good news is that Graham will be bringing the Maserati, along with a few other goodies from his collection, too.

A revival of the famous Geelong Speed Trials, the JUST CARS GEELONG REVIVAL 2012 will take place this December 1 & 2. The event is expected to attract over 40,000 spectators and will also feature a special Concours d'Elegance, club displays, special Revival Tour, live entertainment, markets, a Gala Dinner and more.
For more information, visit the website www.geelongrevival.com.au