1982 Maserati Merak SS (RHD)
Highlights
- 1 of only 140 UK-supplied examples
- Just 21,517 miles recorded
- Judiciously maintained and continually improved throughout current ownership
- Engine rebuilt by McGraph Maserati in 2021
- Recent renewal of the hydraulic actuators
- Desirable high-performance SS variant with Bora dashboard
The Appeal
Much like putting snails on a pizza, the Maserati Merak is a result of what happens when the French and Italians work together.
Citroën bought ailing Maserati in 1968 so they could borrow the Italian firm’s compact 90-degree V6 for their frankly mad SM. Maserati didn’t lose out on the deal though. A much-needed injection of French cash and free use of Citroën’s legendary hydropneumatic system and transaxle gearboxes meant they too could focus on some wild projects of their own. The Merak came along in 1972 and as the second child of this seven-year Citroën-Maserati marriage, it should certainly be considered the SM’s sibling.
Based on the outgoing Bora, but more affordable to buy and with two extra seats thanks to a reduction in cylinders, the Merak broadened the brand’s appeal and was one of Maserati’s more successful cars of the period.
We’re delighted to offer this 1982 original right-hand-drive example, a range-topping SS model. These had 30bhp more than standard and weighed in at 50 kilos less. Just 1,000 were ever made.
The vendor acquired this car in good condition but has spent their ownership further improving it both mechanically and cosmetically. We’re informed that it drives very well indeed, and as the photos illustrate, it’s in lovely condition. Shortly before present ownership, the engine had been rebuilt by renowned specialists McGraph Maserati, and more recently, the hydraulic system has been overhauled to ensure the car is in good health mechanically. The vendor also voluntarily submitted it for MOT testing, resulting in a clean pass in July 2023.
When Meraks do come up for sale, relatively few have received the care and attention these cars need as for many years they were wrongly overlooked by many collectors. That’s where this one bucks the trend, and with it being a rare SS to boot, this is a most compelling proposition.
The History and Paperwork
- Exempt from road tax and MOT
- Voluntarily MOT tested in July 2023: passed with no advisories (now expired)
- 21,517 miles indicated
- UK market RHD Merak from the DeTomaso ownership era
- Confirmed by the vendor to be a genuine factory SS
- Twelve former registered keepers
- Accompanied by numerous invoices for professional work and servicing
- Notable invoices include those for the aforementioned McGraph engine work
- V5C present
The Condition
- Stored in a climate-controlled garage away from the elements
- Campagnolo alloy wheels with only small marks to the rims
- Period-correct Michelin XWX tyres
- Straight bodywork with good door fit and panel alignment
- Smartly presented underneath with a few historic repairs visible
- Highly original and well-preserved interior
- Desirable “Bora dashboard”
- Lightly patinated upholstery and controls
We have the great Giorgeitto Giugiaro to thank for the Merak. The design will be familiar to fans of the Bora as well, although the large rear window is replaced here by those unusually floating buttresses disguising an otherwise flat engine lid. This example looks particularly fine in gloss black - a colour that isn’t kind to cars in lesser condition. The body work has been well looked after, receiving attention from Prestige Coackworks, and when polished, the refection is superb.
There are of course a few small imperfections visible on closer inspection, but for an Italian sports car of this vintage, this is exceedingly smart and supremely usable.
The same can be said of the interior which shows some light signs of wear but makes up for it with its impressive originality. We understand all the electrics and instruments to be in good working order.
The Mechanics
- 2,965 cc V6
- Five-speed manual gearbox (Citroën-derived transaxle)
- Hydropneumatic braking system (also from Citroën)
- Original-looking and well-presented engine compartment
- Engine rebuilt in 2021
- Recent renewal of the hydraulic actuators
- No MOT advisories when last tested
Citroën jumped through hoops to get their hands on this V6 and it’s no wonder. At 217 bhp, (in Merak SS form), it was very powerful for its size.
Mounted amidships and mated to a five-speed transaxle gearbox, the Merak is unsurprisingly renowned for its excellent handling. Following all the aforementioned work, the vendor informs us that this example is quick and very responsive, with good brakes thanks to the clever Citroën-derived hydraulics. The sound from the exhaust pipes is addictive, further increasing the size of the grin on the driver’s face…
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 deposit. 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.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
Vehicle specification
- Year 1982
- Make Maserati
- Model Merak
- Colour Black
- Odometer 21,517 Miles
- Engine size 2965
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Walton on Thames
- Location Surrey
- Country United Kingdom
The Gallery
Make an offer
This seller is open to offers. Enter the amount you'd like to pay and if your offer is accepted, a member of the team will be in touch.
Under offer
This seller has accepted an offer.
Click the star to watch the listing and keep an eye on it in the favourites section of your account, or search for something similar.