For most, the name Monteverdi is likely to be connected to a short-lived yet stunning array of supercars, but the Swiss company also pioneered the idea of a high-performance, luxury all-terrain explorer long before the likes of Land Rover, Jeep and Toyota had even considered the notion. That idea became the Monteverdi Safari, an SUV that has remained a true motoring icon for decades, as well as a serious collector’s item among aficionados. Now, this wonderfully-specced example is heading to Oldtimer Galerie Toffen’s sale on December 29th, and we’re a little bit in love!
Winding the clock back to 1976, when the fastest Range Rover boasted a 3.5-litre V8 with a mere 132 horsepower, competition for a sporty SUV during this time was non-existent. Monteverdi had set the rugged wheels in motion with the Safari, which was built by Carozzeria Fissore and boasted the running gear from the International Harvester Scout, endowing this compact yet spacious off-roader with the ability to scale even the harshest trails the Swiss Alps could muster.
Under the bonnet was where the Safari really stood tall above the few rivals it had. With a choice of two Chrysler V8s on offer, from a spritely 5.2-litre to a ground-thumping 7.2-litre motor pushing almost 300 horsepower, this was no ordinary all-terrain vehicle, and during the late-1970s the Safari was truly in a league of its own.
This example has been lovingly enjoyed by its previous owners and has been used sparingly since a lengthy mechanical overhaul. The leather and fabric-clad interior is in great shape and offers plenty of luxury over other all-wheel-drive vehicles of the same era, blending rugged capability with refinement. If you’re looking for the ultimate go-anywhere classic this festive season, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything cooler and more capable than the Safari!
Saanen / Gstaad, 29 Dec
