1971 Maserati Boomerang prototype sells for $3.7m

A 1971 Maserati Boomerang prototype has sold for $3.7m.

The lot led Bonhams' Chantilly sale in France on September 5.

Maserati Boomerang
The Maserati Boomerang is a one of a kind working prototype

The model was launched at the 1971 Turin Motor Show, but ultimately never made it to the production stage.

The lot is fully functional and unique. It has featured in numerous advertising campaigns and a fashion shoot orchestrated by Jurgen Teller.

Legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro (who later created the Volkswagon Golf) was behind the model's fantastical styling.

Philip Kantor, Bonhams' European head of cars, explained in the run-up to the sale: "The Boomerang was the first car of its time to create such a strong, angular style statement.

"It's considered by many to be one of the most remarkable designs of the 20th century and the 'grandfather' to the Volkswagen Golf Mk 1."

A 1968 Maserati Mexico coupe was a further highlight, selling for $692,942.

The car is another unique working prototype, created by designer Pietro Frua.

Bonhams explains: "The relationship between designer Pietro Frua and Maserati was a long standing one and gave birth to a small number of bespoke creations which count amongst the handsomest one-offs ever to wear the Trident.

"After the two superb 5000GT's it was only logical that the Mexico would earn his attention. He created three cars, one of which used a modified Mistral body and is thus totally unrelated to the other two with similar bodies but totally different noses."

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