1974 Monteverdi 375/4
Chassis no. 3116

During the 1960s, American V8 power was seen by many independent European manufacturers as a means of creating a luxury Grand Tourer to compete with the more exotica offerings of long-established firms like Ferrari, Maserati, and Aston Martin. AC, Jensen, Facel, and Iso among others all went down this route, as did Swiss BMW dealer Peter Monteverdi, who used Chrysler engines and transmissions for his sports and GT cars. Launched in 1967, the first of these was the High Speed 375S, a two-seater coupé featuring a body styled by Pietro Frua. The latter built the first bodies before production switched to Carrozzeria Fissore in 1969.

Monteverdi's tubular spaceframe chassis employed double-wishbone independent front suspension and a De Dion rear axle, and customers could choose between 7.0-litre (375bhp) and 7.2-litre (450bhp) 'Hemi' V8s, either of which was good for 150mph-plus performance. Interior appointments were first class for both front and rear seat occupants, and the whole car possessed an aura of opulence. A 2+2 version - the 375L - was added to the range in 1969, while subsequent additions included the High Speed 375C Convertible, 375 Berlinetta Coupe (replacing the 375S) and the 375/4, a beautiful four-door sports saloon on a considerably longer wheelbase. Production of these hand built and supremely well equipped cars continued in strictly limited numbers until the mid-1970s, when the energy crisis and US Federal auto legislation dealt a major blow to Monteverdi, resulting in their rarity today.

This Monteverdi 375/4 has a plaque affixed to the interior stating the following: 'Rebuilt 1983 Imported USA January 1986'. Unfortunately, at time of cataloguing no further information concerning its history was available. Representing a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of these rare, limited edition Swiss Gran Turismos, the car is offered with a copy of a middle east registration document dated 2012, which is believed to be when it was acquired by the current owner. On static display since acquisition, the car will require re-commissioning before returning to the road.

Please note that this vehicle is not offered with any original registration documents, bidders should satisfy themselves as to registration requirements in their own jurisdiction. Please contact the department for further information.

Please note that if this vehicle is to be imported into Switzerland, Swiss Customs charges (Duty, Car Tax and VAT) will apply at roughly 12.5% of the Purchase Price. Included in this is the Swiss Duty which is calculated on the weight of the vehicle and shall be CHF 15 per 100 kg. Also included is Swiss Car Tax at 4% and this is calculated on the total Purchase Price (Hammer + Buyers Premium). Swiss VAT will then be applicable on the aggregated amount of the Hammer Price, Buyer's Premium, Swiss Duty and Swiss Car Tax at a rate of 7.7%.
Please note that customs rates to other countries shall vary. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.