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Maserati 250S: a sporty racing car
The Maserati 250S is a mid-1950s Maserati sporty racing car that belonged to the factory's family of sports prototypes. We'll explore its origins, place in the Maserati model lineup, and significance to collectors.
250S in brief
The Maserati 250S is an open two-seater sporty racing car that appeared in the second half of the 1950s. The number in the name indicates the approximate engine displacement (around 2.5 litres), while the letter S stands for sporty car.
It belonged to the Maserati family of sports cars, which also included the 150S, 200S, 300S, 350S, and the most powerful 450S.
History and development
At the time, Maserati was competing in both Grand Prix racing and the World Sportscar Championship. Sports cars were built for both the factory team and private clients.
Maserati officially withdrew from factory racing at the end of 1957, so cars from this era are particularly prized by collectors.
Technical specs
The car was of light construction, with a tubular frame and open bodywork. Its engine displacement was around 2.5 litres, allowing it to compete in the mid-sized sports car class.
Exact technical details (number of cylinders, power output) vary between versions, so we'll just provide a general overview.
Significance and where to see one
Smaller-displacement cars were generally more accessible to private teams than the powerful 450S or 300S.
Today's surviving cars take part in historic races, such as the Le Mans Classic. They are rare and belong to collectors.
Maserati sports prototypes
Family models by engine size.
200S
Mid-1950sTwo-litre sports model.
- Smaller engine
- Lightweight frame
- Available to private teams
250S
Late 1950sThis article's model is the 2.5-litre class.
- Approximately 2.5-litre engine size
- Open two-seater body
- For racing and collections
300S ir 450S
Late 1950sMore powerful family members.
- Larger engines
- Distinguished in world championship racing
- Rarer finds
The 250S and other cars of the era
| Maserati 250S | Maserati 300S | Maserati 450S | Jaguar D-type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement | Around 2.5 litres | Around 3.0 litres | Around 4.5 litres | Around 3.4 litres |
| Purpose | Endurance racing | Endurance racing | Prototype championship | Endurance racing |
| What sets it apart | Mid-size class | Widely used by private teams | The most powerful family member, V8 | Victory at Le Mans |
The 250S is a mid-range family member, while the more powerful 300S and 450S garnered more attention, but the 250S is exceptionally beautiful and historically significant.
Pros
- A stunning design from the 1950s sports car era
- A key part of Maserati history
- A rare collector's item
- Competes in historic races
Cons
- Very rare
- Expensive to maintain
- Not suited for daily use
Frequently asked questions
Can you buy a Maserati 250S?
Individual cars occasionally appear in the collector's market, but very rarely and at high prices.
How does the 250S differ from the 300S?
The main difference is the engine displacement: the 250S had a smaller capacity, while the 300S was more powerful.
Does the 250S compete in historic races?
Yes, surviving cars are driven in historic racing events across Europe.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
