Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Lighter and more powerful SS version
- Desirable Bora dashboard with instruments angled towards the driver
- In very good, usable condition and retaining much of its originality
The Appeal
After Citroën’s ownership of Maserati produced the otherworldly SM, the Merak also utilised some of Citroën’s innovative hydraulic systems, but this time in a mid-engined sports car. Throwing rakish Giugiaro styling into the mix and an enlarged version of the 2.7-litre V6 found in the SM, the Merak was to be the Bora’s smaller sibling and was praised in period for its fine handling.
We’re delighted to offer this handsome SS, dating from 1980. It was imported from Canada in July 2021 and is now registered in France. A seemingly very original example that’s also said to be in fine fettle mechanically, this is not one to be missed.
The History and Paperwork
- Imported from Canada in July 2021
- Now resides in France where it is road registered
- Now has European market bumpers
- The vendor informed us that the car was overhauled mechanically upon arrival in France
The Interior
- Desirable Bora dashboard
- Red upholstery and carpeting
- Retains a period correct Blaupunkt stereo
There’s a great sense of drama to a Merak’s interior, especially later examples that share the same dashboard as its larger sibling, the Bora. This one from 1980 has a particularly fine cabin, with gently patinated red upholstery that complements the exterior.
The seats exhibit a little wear, with some light creasing but nothing that we could identify in the way of damage. The materials remain supple and the overall design of the seats lend themselves well to grand touring. The aforementioned Bora dashboard that excites many a Maserati enthusiast is a great sight to behold, with myriad instrumentation, controls and switchgear all easily within reach and angled towards the driver. We couldn’t see any damage to the fascia, much wear to the equipment within, or indeed any cracks or other UV-related damage to the top of the dash.
We adore the red carpeting and find all of it that we can see to be in really good condition, with a few signs of age in just a few areas. The upholstered transmission tunnel looks smart, as to the red door cards. The only missing piece the vendor can identify is the trim that should surround the interior mirror. This is an immensely fine interior and one that you simply don’t want to get out of once your journey is at an end.
The Exterior
- Stunning Giugiaro styling
- OEM Campagnolo wheels
- Pop-up headlamps
It would be remiss of us not to mention the styling. Penned by the great Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Merak shares much in common with the Bora, most notably doing away with the fastback rear window, although a similar silhouette is retained with the almost architectural buttresses that soften the abrupt ending of the roofline. With bold, angular lines and pop-up headlamps which are very much of their period, the Merak cuts a fine figure and continues to attract admiring gazes to this day.
From what we could see, the red paintwork on this example is in really good order. The car isn’t overly pristine, to the extent that you’d be afraid to use it, which is a great relief in our view. That said, the paint and bodywork are both incredibly smart considering the car’s age and there are remarkably few blemishes overall. The vendor points out a paint chip on the nearside rear wing but assures us it has not dented the bodywork. The underside looks to be really smart with no corrosion immediately obvious after viewing the car on a ramp.
The Campagnolo alloys are amongst our favourite wheels ever fitted to a car and these ones look to be in nice condition for their age. The vendor informs us that the tyres are relatively new, and therefore in very good order.
The Mechanics
- 3.0-litre V6 mounted amidships
- Five-speed Citroën manual gearbox
- Starts readily, runs well and performs nicely
It is rumoured that Citroën acquired Maserati in order to use their DOHC 90 degree V6 in the SM and regardless of how much truth is in that claim, there’s no doubt that it’s a wonderful powerplant. Enlarged from 2.7 to 3.0-litres for Merak production, the V6 was sufficiently compact to be mounted longitudinally, unlike the Merak’s mid-engined competitors from the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.
As an SS, this Merak is both lighter and more powerful than its siblings, which makes it a particularly sought after car. Citroën’s five-speed manual gearbox reportedly operates smoothly and the vendor demonstrates the V6 running well and pulling strongly. We’re informed that the maserati received a comprehensive mechanical overhaul after it arrived from Canada and so remains in healthy order. The car is said to receive regular oil changes and the vendor points out that the clutch has been replaced too.
Hailing from an age where engineers weren't afraid of a bit of sidewall, the Merak rides well on taller tyres, which is another factor making it a great GT. The suspension is not at all harsh and yet the Merak will still execute corners with astonishing competence owing to its low overall mass. For a car of this era, the handling is sublime and this example drives really nicely. The V6 emits a spine-tingling induction growl and behind the wheel you gain the overall feeling that you’re piloting something rather special.
Summary
While it’s hard to believe today, the Merak has been somewhat overlooked in the past, but now people are starting to realise what fine machines these were. Effortlessly stylish and definite driver’s car, a Merak is a worthy addition to any collection - especially an SS like this one.
Presented in very good overall condition and in a very usable state, we urge you to become this Maserati’s next custodian.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
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