Description
1989 Maserati Biturbo Spyder E
Chassis number: ZAM333B00KB190169
Registration number: G177 VSR
- Just 10, 057 miles from new.
- Recent extensive recommissioning in our workshop.
- 5-speed manual gearbox, 2. 8 litre twin-turbo V6 producing 245 bhp.
As the Maserati Biturbo reached maturity, it became a far better car than it’s reputation would have you believe. The adoption of a Weber Marelli fuel injection and a cantilever steering system, together with larger ventilated disc brakes, larger wheels and tyres and firmer suspension not only corrected many of the original car’s faults but also made it a better car to drive in all areas.
For the UK market, in late 1988, these later cars started to arrive, first in Coupe and four door form, but then also as a Spyder. The 3-valve twin-turbo V6 engine now had a 2. 8 litre capacity and developed a excellent output for the time of 245 bhp.
Zagato’s treatment for the convertible version had always been very successful, blending 1980s brutalism with chic elegance, and now with a facelift and upgraded interior, was even more desirable. At a time when Maserati imports to the UK could be counted in handfuls, the Spyder ‘E’ version sold well, with around 150 right-hand-drive examples finding enthusiastic owners here.
This particular Spyder was delivered new to its first owner in the UK in July 1989. The service history shows that over the first few years it covered only minimal mileage. By 1997 it was showing only 6900 miles and yet had by this time had four owners. In September that year it was offered for sale at a Brooks auction and purchased by a London-based collector called Paul Kunkel. Paul was one of Bill McGrath’s first customers as in the 1970s he owned an A6G Zagato, as well as an ultra-rare Pegaso. The Spyder was sent to Colin Clarke Engineering for a service and new clutch but even then only used sparingly, and then sold again in 2005 to a Wiltshire-based antique dealer. The comprehensive history file shows the MOT mileage rising in tiny increments each year, definitely a case of only used on very high days and holidays and the car was gently maintained by a local specialist garage, with numerous invoices on file.
Having been laid up during the winter of 2019 and then through the Covid period, when extricated, the engine had developed an ignition fault and the owner gave up on it at this point, asking us if we wanted to buy it. At this point, it was showing just over 10, 000 miles. Normally, the mileage reading on Biturbos is questionable as the speedo/ odometer is not the most reliable item but although we can’t 100% warrant the mileage, the mileage and MOT log of this car would suggest it has been working throughout – and this is corroborated by the excellent original condition of the interior and the hood.
In other areas, although it was very sound, there was work to do and we set about a long list of jobs in the workshop and also at the bodyshop. A full list of all work carried out is available to view but it was extensive. However, what we now have is probably the lowest mileage Spyder E still remaining and in very good condition. Certainly a time warp and a car we considered worth saving. We hope you agree.
At any one time there are very few of these cars available for sale and even fewer in this kind of condition. It is therefore priced accordingly. Today, as long as you start with a car in this condition, Biturbo ownership is actually the most cost-effective way to enjoy Maserati ownership. They still look cool (or is it look cool again?) and they are a riot to drive, in a way that modern cars cannot hope to match.
This car is available now to view at our premises and is sold ready to go with a long MOT.
