Ghibli’s impressive aesthetics were a testament to the creativity and innovation of Maserati’s design team. Its sleek and aerodynamic body, combined with its distinctive front grille and headlights, exuded an air of sophistication and elegance that was instantly recognizable.
Source: Ruote da Sogno
In high-performance automobiles, few command as much admiration and respect as the Maserati Ghibli. From the moment it was first introduced in 1967, this iconic vehicle captured the hearts and imaginations of automotive enthusiasts around the world. Its striking design, powerful V8 engine, and exceptional performance capabilities quickly cemented the Ghibli’s place in the pantheon of great sports vehicles.
Source: Bonhams
The Ghibli was a true icon of Italian automotive design and engineering, but its origins were surprisingly humble. The story of the model’s creation began in the early 1960s when Maserati was struggling to find its footing in the competitive world of sports vehicle manufacturing. In 1961, the company hired a young engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, who had previously worked for Ferrari and was known for his expertise in building high-performance engines. Bizzarrini was tasked with developing a new engine for the brand, and he quickly set to work on a V8 design that would eventually power the new model. But the road to the legendary automobile was not a smooth one. In 1963, Bizzarrini left Maserati to start his own company, and the development of the new engine stalled. It wasn’t until 1966 that the company was finally able to bring the engine to market, using it in a new sports vehicle called Mexico. However, Mexico failed to capture the imagination of customers, and the company needed a new flagship car to help revitalize the brand. The task of creating this new automobile fell to a young designer named Giorgetto Giugiaro, who had recently founded the design firm Italdesign. Giugiaro was given free rein to create a new sports vehicle for the brand, and he set to work on a sleek and aggressive design that would eventually become a legend. The novelty was named after a hot desert wind in North Africa, making its debut at the Turin Motor Show in 1966 and gaining immediate popularity due to its impressive aesthetics and robust V8 engine. Eventually, it became one of the most highly coveted sports vehicles of its time playing a significant role in solidifying Maserati’s position as a major player in the realm of high-performance vehicles.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
1970 became a significant milestone in the model’s evolution. One of the key differences between the 1970 edition and previous model years was the introduction of a new 4.9-liter V8 engine. This engine was based on the design of the last 4.7-liter unit but featured larger bore and stroke dimensions, as well as an improved intake manifold and redesigned cylinder heads. These changes increased the engine’s output to 335 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, making the car even more powerful and responsive than before. The exterior of the 1970 edition also featured some notable updates, including a revised front grille and new quad headlights, which replaced the previous dual headlight design. The car’s body lines were also slightly refined, with more pronounced fender flares and a more sculpted hood. Inside, the 1970 release featured a luxurious and refined interior that was typical of Italian sports vehicles of the era. The cabin was trimmed in premium leather and featured an array of high-end features, including power windows, air conditioning, and a top-of-the-line Blaupunkt stereo system. The dashboard was dominated by a large, easy-to-read speedometer, tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. Compared to previous model years, the 1970 edition also boasted improved handling and performance thanks to a revised suspension setup and a wider track. The car’s steering was also improved, with a new steering box that provided more precise and responsive feedback to the driver. Overall, the 1970 edition represented a significant evolution of the classic Italian sports car. Its powerful V8 engine, refined exterior styling, and luxurious interior made it a standout in its era, and it remains a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts today.
Source: Hagerty for agents
1970 Maserati Ghibli was featured in the popular Italian comic book series “Diabolik.” In the series, the main character, a criminal mastermind, drove a modified black Ghibli Spyder with several unique features, including retractable machine guns, a hidden ejector seat, and a self-destruct button. The car became a signature element of the comic book series and helped to boost Ghibli’s popularity in Italy during the 1970s.
Contact us if you have this or another classic car to sell.
| Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday |
9am - 6pm 9am - 3pm Closed |