The Maserati Bora was a true masterpiece of Italian engineering, a work of art that embodied the very essence of automotive excellence. From its sleek and aerodynamic body to its powerful V8 engine, this car was a triumph of design and performance that left an indelible mark on the world of motoring.
Source: Drive2
Driving the Maserati Bora was an experience unlike any other. With its responsive handling and lightning-fast acceleration, it was a car that demanded respect and attention from all who encountered it. Its roaring engine was a symphony of power and precision, a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Maserati engineers who brought this magnificent machine to life.
Source: Robb Report
Bora emerged as a successor to the Mistral and Sebring models, codenamed Tipo 117, which were growing outdated. The visionary behind this project was Giulio Alfieri, the esteemed chief engineer renowned for his work on the successful Tipo 60/61 “Birdcage” sports racers of the company’s past. Overseeing the design aspect was the talented Giorgetto Giugiaro from Italdesign, celebrated for his iconic contributions to designs such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint and the Ferrari 250 GT. Debuting as a prototype at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1971, the Bora later graced the Frankfurt Motor Show the same year in its production version. Sporting a mid-mounted 4.7-liter V8 engine, the sports car delivered an impressive 310 horsepower and achieved a top speed of 171 mph. Distinguishing features of the automobile included its sleek wedge-shaped design, retractable headlights, and all-independent suspension, complemented by powerful brakes. Maserati subsequently released a more powerful version in 1973, known as the Bora 4.9. This model came with a larger 4.9-liter V8 engine that could produce 330 horsepower and reach a top speed of 177 mph. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics and enthusiasts, the automobile was not a commercial success, with only 564 units produced during its seven-year production run. Production ended in 1978, as Maserati shifted its focus to smaller, more economical automobiles in response to the oil crisis of the 1970s. Despite its limited commercial success, the model became a classic sports vehicle and is highly sought-after by collectors today. The vehicle’s unique design and high performance continue to make it a favorite among enthusiasts of Italian sports vehicles.
Source: YSM Motors
In the year 1975, the Bora model was fitted with an impressive 4.9-liter V8 engine, boasting a substantial 320 horsepower and 308 lb-ft of torque. The car was equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox, allowing it to achieve an impressive top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h). The engine was derived from Maserati’s renowned racing program, providing the Bora with a thrilling and exhilarating performance, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a remarkably quick 6.5 seconds. The 1975 version featured a well-crafted suspension system, incorporating double wishbones at the front and a live axle at the rear, along with coil springs and telescopic dampers all around. For superior braking capability, the car was equipped with hydraulic power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring optimal stopping power. Inside the Bora’s interior, luxury was the norm, embracing passengers with lavish leather seats, a gracefully designed wooden dashboard, and a stylish Momo steering wheel. The dashboard itself was adorned with a large speedometer and tachometer, complemented by essential gauges to monitor oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel level, providing drivers with vital information about the car’s performance. The model also had air conditioning, power windows, and a Blaupunkt stereo system. The 1975 version was largely similar to the earlier model years, with only a few minor changes. The most significant change was the addition of a catalytic converter to comply with the new emissions regulations in the United States. The car’s engine output was slightly reduced due to the new emissions regulations, but it still delivered impressive performance. Overall, the 1975 edition was a superb example of Italian automotive engineering and design. Its striking looks, powerful engine, and luxurious interior made it a highly desirable sports car that still captures the attention of enthusiasts today.
Source: Theo-Graphics
The 1975 Maserati Bora made a memorable appearance in the opening scene of the 1977 James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me.” In this movie, the character of Bond, portrayed by Roger Moore, took the wheel and drove the car through the picturesque landscapes of Sardinia, all while being chased by a relentless helicopter. To execute the thrilling stunts, skilled driver Rémy Julienne was behind the wheel of the vehicle, which was equipped with a special device that emitted smoke and oil to thwart the pursuing helicopter. This iconic and action-packed scene played a significant role in solidifying the model’s status as both a classic automobile and a beloved pop culture icon.
Contact us if you have this or another classic car to sell.