1933 Maserati 8CM

The Maserati 8CM debuted in 1933 at the Tunis Grand Prix, where racing partners Raymond Sommer and Goffredo Zehender acquired two examples, chassis 3005 and 3006. At the Monaco Grand Prix, Sommer retired with mechanical trouble, while Zehender brought chassis 3006 home in sixth place and campaigned the car throughout the remainder of the 1933 season.

Sommer’s former car was later sold by the factory to Tazio Nuvolari, who famously drove it to victory at the Belgian Grand Prix after extensive modifications carried out in Liège and with the support of Scuderia Ferrari. At the end of 1933, Zehender attempted the hour record at the Autodrome de Linas-Montlhéry, setting four international records.

For 1934, Zehender passed chassis 3006 to Sommer, who modified the car to a two-seat configuration—likely with involvement from the SEFAC (Société des Études d’Automobile de Course) project—to compete under the new 750 kg regulations and potentially in sports-car events such as the Mille Miglia.

Rediscovered in São Paulo during the 1970s by renowned collector Colin Crabbe, the car was restored by Bob Danaher and later by his son Sean Danaher. Having passed through several notable owners, it now forms part of a prominent US collection and has appeared at events including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the Amelia Island Concours.

A fascinating and significant piece of Maserati Grand Prix history, chassis 3006 combines documented racing provenance with a beautifully restored presentation and thrilling performance.

Please get in touch if you would like a more comprehensive description and photographs.