Highlights
- One of only 275 4.9-litre Boras built - the most powerful Maserati offered
- Original matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation
- Converted to European specification
- Accompanied by original owner's manual, books, and period brochures
- Presented in very usable condition
The Appeal
The late '60s and early '70s were exciting times to work in the Italian sports car industry. Two-seater mid-engined sports cars were just taking off. Lamborghini had just unveiled the Miura, De Tomaso had the Mangusta, and Ferrari was hard at work on the Dino. Newly under Citroën management, Maserati commenced work on the Giugiaro-designed, V8-engined Bora in October 1968. The first prototypes were ready the following year, and the final concept was shown at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show.
Maserati's ongoing financial woes meant the Bora was short-lived. Just 564 were made of which 275 were the range-topping 4.9-litre version. We're delighted to offer one such car from 1975, just as Alessandro de Tomaso was taking control of the company.
Originally a US car, it has been converted to coveted European specifications, including chrome bumpers and side lamp deletion. With matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation, this Bora offers a rare opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, usable example, recently out of long-term storage.
Although it requires some mechanical restoration and is not currently running, its reportedly corrosion-free condition and well-preserved original interior make it a candidate for a light winter restoration project.
Maserati's ongoing financial woes meant the Bora was short-lived. Just 564 were made of which 275 were the range-topping 4.9-litre version. We're delighted to offer one such car from 1975, just as Alessandro de Tomaso was taking control of the company.
Originally a US car, it has been converted to coveted European specifications, including chrome bumpers and side lamp deletion. With matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation, this Bora offers a rare opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, usable example, recently out of long-term storage.
Although it requires some mechanical restoration and is not currently running, its reportedly corrosion-free condition and well-preserved original interior make it a candidate for a light winter restoration project.
History and Paperwork
- Originally a US market car, imported to Europe with all EU duties paid
- Clean title, reportedly ready for registration in any EU country
- Matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation
- Accompanied by original owner's manual, books, and period brochures
- 59,659 miles indicated
The Condition
- We're informed that it has been repainted once before; lightly patinated finish in eminelty serviceable condition
- The bodywork looks to be very sound and straight with good panel fit and crips swage lines
- The vendor assures is that there are no corrosion issues apparent
- Interior looks in good original condition, featuring original three-spoke steering wheel and Veglia Borletti dials
- period-correct 15" Campagnolo wheels and Grand Am Radial G/T tyres
- Rare specific metal hubcaps
Giorgetto Giugiaro can do no wrong in our eyes. The Bora is yet another of his astounding designs, sporting a super-slippery 0.30 drag coefficient.
Black really shows off the svelte lines of this 1975 example, and besides the small changes made to convert to European spec, it remains commendably original inside and out. The vendor informs us that the bodywork is very sound and has only been repainted once before. As the photos show, the paint is now lightly patinated, yet eminently serviceable unless you're looking to build a Concours car. On the inside, all looks very smart, with minimal signs of wear to the upholstery, carpets and controls.
Black really shows off the svelte lines of this 1975 example, and besides the small changes made to convert to European spec, it remains commendably original inside and out. The vendor informs us that the bodywork is very sound and has only been repainted once before. As the photos show, the paint is now lightly patinated, yet eminently serviceable unless you're looking to build a Concours car. On the inside, all looks very smart, with minimal signs of wear to the upholstery, carpets and controls.
The Mechanics
- 4.9-litre (4,930cc) DOHC aluminium V8
- Four Weber 42 DCNF twin-choke carburettors
- Five-speed ZF manual gearbox (transaxle)
- Four-wheel ventilated hydraulic disc brakes
- Four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs
- We're informed that the engine turns but requires servicing before running
- Needs engine overhaul, exhaust rebuild, and air conditioning system repairs
- Cabin electrics tested and reportedly functioning well
As the coveted (and rarer) 4.9-litre version, this matching numbers Bora will be utterly superb to drive once returned to the road. All looks well inside the engine compartment with none of the key mechanical components obviously missing. Following a period unused off the road, no attempt has been made to run the engine, although we're informed it turns freely. The vendor has not investigated the condition of the engine or gearbox internals, not served any other mechanical areas of the car.
For those who love nothing more than working on the oily bits, this is a compelling project. We'd leave the bodywork and interior as-is and coax that glorious 4.9-litre V8 back to life.
For those who love nothing more than working on the oily bits, this is a compelling project. We'd leave the bodywork and interior as-is and coax that glorious 4.9-litre V8 back to life.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..
Comments
No comments yet
Ask a question, share your knowledge, or show this auction some love!