Without Reserve
Chassis: AM115*1346
Engine: AM115*1346
An Undisputed Icon of Mid-Century Italian Automotive Design
One of Only 1,170 Built; Desirable Mid-Production Example
Delivered New to Barcelona Finished in Light Ivory over Red
Retains Original Matching-Numbers Engine and Five-Speed Manual Gearbox
Unrestored Example Ideal for Recommissioning or Restoration
4,719 CC DOHC V-8 Engine
Four Weber 40 DCNF Carburetors
310 BHP at 6,000 RPM
5-Speed ZF Manual Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Front Independent Suspension with Coil Springs
Rear Live-Axle Suspension with Leaf Springs
Introduced in 1966 at the Torino Motor Show and named after a North African desert wind, the Maserati Ghibli was an immediate sensation, hailed as one of Italy’s most exciting new offerings. The Ghibli was a masterpiece of automotive design, owing its genius to Ghia stylist Giorgetto Giugiaro. The long, low razor-edge sports car had a refined yet brutal appearance. With a four-cam, four-carb, dry sump V-8 engine and a top speed approaching 170 mph, the Ghibli was among the fastest production cars available.
Maserati justifiably described their Ghibli as “powerful and ultra fast, smooth and dependable, modern and efficient.” In all, just 1,170 examples were built through 1973.
The Maserati Ghibli offered here, chassis AM115*1346, was completed in September 1969, finished in Avorio Chiaro (Light Ivory) over red leather, and delivered new to Barcelona, Spain. Consistent with its build date, this mid-production Ghibli is equipped with the 4.7-liter engine, five-speed ZF manual gearbox, and characteristic interior appointments including Veglia instruments, toggle switches, and Lucas signal stalk. Many enthusiasts regard this combination of features as the preferred specification for the model.
While little is known of this car’s earliest history, it was imported into the US in the late 1970s and updated with typical American-market equipment including an MPH speedometer, wire wheels, a rectangular air box, rear bumper guards, side marker lights, and exhaust system. It was owned by a Southern California-based Maserati enthusiast for several decades and has spent the past few years confined to static storage. Except for older paint and upholstery in the original colors, the Ghibli is presented today in largely original, unrestored condition and appears to be a strong candidate for a comprehensive recommissioning or a sound basis for a complete restoration. Importantly, the car retains its original matching-numbers engine and is offered with a set of five original Campagnolo cast alloy wheels and assorted spares.
One of the all-time great Maserati road cars, the Ghibli represents tremendous value in today’s market, especially when compared to its contemporary Italian rivals including the Ferrari Daytona, Iso Grifo, and Lamborghini Miura. Possessing many of the same desirable qualities as these exotics – but benefiting from an altogether more user-friendly and accessible package – the Ghibli is certainly worthy of a re-examination. This example, with its ideal factory specification, elegant color scheme, and long-term enthusiast ownership is a perfect entry into the glamorous and exclusive world of mid-century Italian grand touring.
*Please note that this vehicle has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to road use.
