The Fiat Bartoletti 642 RN2 built for Maserati embodied the fusion of rugged utility and Italian elegance. Bartoletti’s custom bodywork allowed up to three cars to be stacked within its two-deck layout, while tool lockers, ramps, and enclosed sides ensured the team’s parts and equipment were well protected on long journeys across Europe. Painted in Maserati blue and yellow, the transporter doubled as both a functional hauler and a rolling showcase for the prestige of the Trident.
By 1959, its livery had been updated, including with bold “Maserati 3500 G.T.” lettering along the flanks — a clear nod to Maserati’s growing focus on the grand touring market. While its primary duty remained transporting competition cars like the Tipo 61 “Birdcage” and remaining 250Fs to races, the addition of the 3500 GT branding turned the truck into a mobile advertisement. It is very possible that the transporter was also dispatched to high-profile motor shows or promotional events to underscore Maserati’s new commercial direction, linking the glamour of its road cars with the prestige of its racing heritage. In this dual role, the Bartoletti served not just as a team lifeline but also as a billboard announcing Maserati’s ambitions beyond the track.