Friday, May 4, 2007

Maserati Birdcage


The Maserati Tipo 61 (Birdcage) is among one of the most iconic racing cars in history. The car was produced between 1959 and 1961 by Maserati for racing in Le Mans. It became famous for its intricate tubular space frame chassis, containing about 200 aluminium tubes welded together, hence the nickname "Birdcage". This method of construction provided a more rigid and at the same time, lighter chassis than other sports cars of the time. The Camoradi team became famous racing the Tipo 61's but despite being faster round the track than other cars, the Birdcage was unreliable and often retired from races due to problems with the gearbox. The Maserati MC12 is available only in white and blue, to serve as a tribute to the Tipo 61 and the Camoradi racing team