1978 Maserati Bora: Sleek, Powerful, Iconic

The renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro created the Bora, which was widely considered the most stunning sports vehicle of the 1970s. This mid-engined roadster distinguished itself from its counterparts and successfully navigated the challenges posed by the fuel crisis, playing a pivotal role in rescuing the company from bankruptcy.

Source: Artcurial

The Maserati Bora made its debut during a challenging period, coinciding with the fuel crisis brought on by the Arab-Israeli war. Although it carried on the styling elements introduced by its predecessor, Ghibli, it also signaled a new era in automotive design. Its contours became edgier, with a shorter and higher rear end, which was particularly noticeable in the brand’s cars. Additionally, the “hidden” headlights, which had already appeared in Ghibli before becoming popular, were fully embraced in Bora’s design. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, this remarkable vehicle was part of his impressive portfolio of work, which included other exceptional vehicles such as the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Bertone, BMW 3200 CS, and Aston Martin DB4 GT Bertone ‘Jet’. The novelty boasted a sleek aerodynamic design with flip-up headlights, a stylish grille, sporty tires, and a spacious tailgate that revealed the powerful V8 engine.

The origins

Source: Uncrate

Maserati’s mid-engined vehicles in the early 1960s were limited to endurance racing prototypes, and the company lacked the funds to develop a production model with such a layout until Citroen purchased a controlling stake. In 1968, the brand began working on a mid-engined two-seater sports vehicle, dubbed Tipo 117, to compete with supercars like the Lamborghini Miura and De Tomaso Mangusta. Ferrari was also working on its own mid-engined sports vehicle at the time. The model’s development began in late 1968 under the guidance of chief engineer Giulio Alfieri and designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, who had recently opened his design studio, ItalDesign. The prototype was completed in the following year, and the model made its official debut at the Geneva Salon in 1971. Despite the challenging conditions in the sports car market, the new automobile and its stablemate, the Merak, with their mid-engined design, helped rescue the company from bankruptcy.

The 1978 model year

Source: Top Gear

In 1978, Maserati stopped production of the car, a legendary sports vehicle that had established itself as a powerful and aesthetically pleasing vehicle of the 1970s. This automobile was a testament to Maserati’s exceptional engineering and design capabilities. The vehicle’s technical specifications were impressive for its time. Under the hood, it was powered by a 4.9-liter V8 engine that produced 320 horsepower and had a top speed of 177 miles per hour. It featured a five-speed manual transmission and four-wheel independent suspension, making for a smooth and responsive ride. The Bora’s mid-engined layout provided excellent weight distribution, resulting in exceptional handling. The interior of the 1978 edition was luxurious and sophisticated. It featured a spacious cabin with leather upholstery, power windows, and air conditioning. The dashboard was adorned with wood trim and housed a comprehensive array of gauges, including a speedometer, tachometer, and oil pressure gauge. The exterior of the Bora was nothing short of stunning. Its sleek, aerodynamic body featured a low-slung nose, sharp lines, and a distinctive glass engine cover. The pop-up headlights added to its unique aesthetic. The 1978 model year saw some minor changes to the exterior, including new side mirrors and black rubber bumpers.

Compared to previous model years, the 1978 edition had some notable differences. One of the most significant changes was the introduction of fuel injection, replacing the carburetors used in earlier models. This resulted in improved performance and better fuel efficiency. Additionally, the 1978 release featured larger brake calipers and a new exhaust system, further enhancing its performance capabilities.

Did you know?

Source: YSM Motors

1978 became the last year of production for this iconic sports vehicle. It was one of the last models produced by the brand before the company was taken over by De Tomaso in the late 1970s. As a result, the 1978 version became a highly sought-after collectible among enthusiasts.

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1975 Maserati Bora: Italian Muscle

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.

The origins

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.

The 1975 model year

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.

Did you know?

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.

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1972 Maserati Bora: Fast and Furious

Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Maserati Bora was a luxury sports coupe produced by an Italian car manufacturer from 1971 to 1978. Available in both coupe and convertible (Spyder) versions it was known for its sleek design, powerful engine, and excellent handling. 

Source: Airows

The powerful V8 engine and excellent handling made Bora one of the most remarkable sports vehicles of its time and a popular choice among fast-driving enthusiasts. Its mid-engine layout was also a unique feature for the 70s, making it one of the first production cars to have this layout. Due to its high price and limited production numbers, this automobile is considered a classic and highly sought-after collector’s item today.

The origins

Source: H&H Classics

First introduced in 1971 at the Turin Motor Show Bora appeared as a replacement for the brand’s glorious Ghibli model. The new automobile was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, one of the most renowned car designers of the time, who also created the Ghibli. The new sports coupe was built on a new platform, featuring a mid-engine layout, which was a first for Maserati and relatively uncommon for production cars of the time. The first release featured a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced 310 horsepower and was available in both coupe and convertible (Spyder) versions. The car was praised for its sleek design, powerful engine, and excellent handling. It was also one of the first production vehicles to feature a mid-engine layout, which made it unique and outstanding among other models of the time. The car was produced from 1971 to 1978, and during that period, it was offered several upgrades, such as a more powerful 4.9-liter engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and power steering. This luxury sports vehicle was produced in relatively low numbers and had a high price tag, which made it exclusive and hard to obtain.  Around 505 coupes and 168 Spyders were built during the production period. Today, its value is considered to be quite high, making it one of the most exclusive and desirable models produced by Maserati.

The 1972 model year

Source: Shannons Insurance

The 1972 model came with a robust 4.7-liter V8 engine, providing drivers with the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or an alternative 3-speed automatic. With an impressive power output of 310 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque, the car could reach a maximum speed of approximately 160 mph and achieve acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. What set this model apart during the 1970s was its rare mid-engine layout, a feature not commonly seen at that time. Complementing its performance, the car boasted an independent suspension system featuring coil springs and disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring exceptional handling and braking capabilities. Furthermore, telescopic shock absorbers were thoughtfully integrated, contributing to an enhanced driving experience. These specifications made this automobile a high-performance exclusive sports coupe for the time. Moreover, the 1972 Maserati Bora’s interior was designed to be luxurious, comfortable, and sporty, fitting the high-performance nature of this glorious sports coupe. It featured a luxurious and sporty interior and was equipped with comfortable and supportive bucket seats, upholstered in leather. The dashboard was finished in wood veneer and had a variety of gauges to monitor the automobile’s performance. The steering wheel was leather-wrapped and featured a Maserati emblem in the center. The center console was finished in wood veneer and had a variety of controls for the vehicle’s audio and climate systems. Moreover, the model also featured power windows, air conditioning, and a high-quality audio system as an option. Overall, the interior was spacious and well-crafted with leather, wood, and chrome finishes. The cabin was designed to be driver-focused, and a 2+2 seating configuration was intended for four passengers. However, the rear seats were considered tight and not practical for adult passengers.

Did you know?

Source: Classiche Masters

The value of a 1972 Maserati Bora can vary greatly depending on the car’s condition, mileage, and provenance. In general, well-maintained and original examples can fetch high prices at auctions. A 1972 Maserati Bora in excellent condition with low mileage and a documented history worth several hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. For example, at Gooding & Co the recently sold 1972 release was priced $187,000.

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1977 Maserati Bora: The Most Aesthetic Sports Car

The Maserati Bora, designed by the renowned Giorgetto Giugiaro, is often regarded as the most aesthetically pleasing sports car of the 1970s. Despite being a mid-engined roadster in a crowded field, it stood out with its striking design. Not only did it weather the challenges posed by the fuel crisis, but it also played a crucial role in saving Maserati from financial ruin.

Source: Historics Auctioneers

During a time of fuel crisis caused by the Arab-Israeli war, a new automobile emerged that followed the style of the impressive Ghibli, but with a focus on evolving design era. The new vehicle had sharper forms and a shorter, higher stern, which was particularly evident in the brand’s vehicles. Ghibli even introduced “blind” headlights before they became popular, and the brand’s novelty solidified this trend in the company’s design. This exceptional vehicle, known as the “hurricane,” was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, who was also responsible for other notable vehicles such as the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Bertone, BMW 3200 CS, and Aston Martin DB4 GT Bertone ‘Jet.’ The aerodynamic design of the car included flip-up headlights, a stylish grille, sporty tires, and a large tailgate providing access to the powerful V8 engine.

The origins

Source: Classic Driver

Maserati initially developed mid-engined vehicles for endurance racing prototypes in the early 1960s but lacked the budget to create a production vehicle until Citroen acquired a controlling stake in the company. In 1968, Maserati began work on the Tipo 117 project to create mid-engined sports vehicles similar to the Lamborghini Miura and De Tomaso Mangusta. Ferrari was also in the process of launching their own mid-engined sports car. While development on the automobile began in late 1968, the prototype was not released until the following year. The technical part was overseen by the company’s chief engineer, Giulio Alfieri, while design work was handled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who would later open his own ItalDesign studio in 1970. The novelty officially debuted at the Geneva Salon in 1971 and was introduced during a difficult time for the sports automobile segment. However, the model and its counterpart, the Merak, helped Maserati avoid bankruptcy.

The 1977 model year

Source: Classiche Masters

The 1977 version saw a few changes and improvements over the previous model years. It boasted improved technical features compared to the 1976 model. The automobile received a 4.9-liter V8 engine that generated 320 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, whereas the 1976 version had a 4.7-liter engine with 310 horsepower. The engine was coupled with a five-speed manual transmission and could achieve a maximum speed of 171 mph. The automobile also came with power-assisted steering, four-wheel disc brakes, and fully independent suspension. The interior of the 1977 release was luxurious and well-appointed. It featured leather upholstery, air conditioning, power windows, and a stereo system. The seats were comfortable and offered ample support for spirited driving. The dashboard was redesigned for the 1977 model year, with a new layout and new gauges. On the exterior, the 1977 edition featured a new grille design with the brand’s trident emblem in the center. The headlights were also redesigned, with a more streamlined and modern look. The overall styling of the 1977 version remained similar to the previous model years, with a low and sleek profile, and sharp lines and angles. One significant difference between the 1977 edition and previous model years was the introduction of a new hydraulic clutch system. This system was designed to make shifting smoother and easier and was a welcome improvement for drivers. The 1977 model year also saw the introduction of the Bora 5-S, a limited edition model with a five-speed transmission and several other upgrades.

Did you know?

Source: Gullwing Motor Cars

A renowned musician and automobile enthusiast Elton John was a notable owner of a 1977 Maserati Bora. He had an extensive collection of luxury and sports cars, and he acquired his Bora in the late 1970s, which he retained for a few years before selling it. John frequently drove his Bora around different areas in California, including Los Angeles.

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1973 Maserati Bora: Like a storm

Mediterranean wind or sports vehicle? The iconic sports model Bora from the Italian Maserati could be called a hurricane on wheels. This central-engined supercar won over even the spoiled domestic powerful muscle cars of the American market and became a landmark for the Italian brand.

Source: Uncrate

In 2021, the iconic sports vehicle Bora celebrated its 50 anniversary, becoming one of the most valuable classic luxury sports cars in the world. While some brands offered the fastest automobiles and others, the most luxurious, Maserati combined these two qualities and offered its customers an automobile that was both powerful and luxurious. Since its inception, the Bora had always been the automobile for anyone who desired the finest sports vehicles. And the public appreciated the zeal of the brand: its clients had always been millionaires and celebrities. Traditionally named after stormy winds, with the famous trident-shaped logo, which demonstrated elegance, strength, and luxury, this model became an icon for the Italian automotive industry.

The origins

Source: H&H Classics

The Italian brand built mid-engined automobiles back in the early 60s, but they were intended for racing, not mass production. For turning these prototypes into mass-produced cars, the brand did not have enough finances. However, after the French Citroen bought out the brand’s controlling stake, the situation changed dramatically. In 1968, a project, with the internal designation Tipo 117, was launched aiming to create a central-engined supercar like the Lamborghini Miura and De Tomaso Mangusta. The main designer of the project was Giorgetto Giugiaro (by the way, in 1970 he opened the ItalDesign studio), and the chief engineer at Maserati Giulio Alfieri was responsible for the technical part. Following the company’s tradition, the 1971 debut of the Maserati Bora at the Geneva Motor Show unveiled a new model named after one of the Mediterranean winds. Built on a monocoque chassis with a wheelbase of 2600 mm, the Bora inherited the power unit from the Ghibli, specifically the 4719 cm3 engine. However, the engineers later fine-tuned it for smoother operation by removing the dry sump lubrication system and slightly reducing the power from 330 to 310 horsepower. From 1971 to 1978, Maserati sold a total of 524 cars, with 289 equipped with a 4.7-liter engine and 235 featuring a 4.9-liter engine.

The 1973 model year

Source: AutoEvolution

1973 Bora was distinguished by grace and beauty. This model was low (only 1.15 m in height), with a sharp front and a dramatically cut tail. The door received a deep bevel forward, repeating the contour of the seat. At the rear, the automobile received laconic lanterns, a modest chrome bumper strip, and four exhaust pipes. Retractable headlights were hidden in the engine compartment, paired with powerful fog lights. This straight-line style eventually became Maestro Giugiaro’s signature style and made the two-seater sports coupe a classic of the 70s. The performance was one of the main characteristics which turned this sports coupe into an icon. The standard vehicle was equipped with a powerful V8 engine. While the earlier models received a 4.7-liter engine, in 1973, a 4.9-liter Ghibli engine with emission control was introduced for being exported to the United States. However, engine power decreased to 300 hp at 6000 rpm, and the torque dropped to 420 Nm at 3500 rpm. The interior was made in the traditional Maserati style – two-tone leather upholstery on the instrument panel and seats. The cabin was quite spacious, delivering excellent visibility. The steering wheel was adjustable. However, the driver’s seat could not be moved: this was partly compensated by the adjustable pedal assembly. The instrument panel was equipped with a speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure gauge, oil temperature, coolant temperature, fuel gauge, and battery charge indicator from the Italian Veglia.

Did you know?

Source: Petrolicious

To reduce engine noise in the cabin, Bora1973 was equipped with a carpeted aluminum panel that hid the power unit underneath. Moreover, there was an additional glass partition between the passenger and the engine compartments.

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1974 Maserati Bora: A Masterpiece of Italian Engineering and Design

Designed by legendary car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Maserati Bora was a radical departure from the curvy designs of the 1960s. Instead, it featured clean, angular lines that emphasized its sporty nature. The car’s signature feature was its low, sloping nose, which was designed to reduce drag and increase stability at high speeds.

Source: Uncrate

Nowadays, the Maserati Bora is considered a coveted collector’s item among automotive enthusiasts. Its rarity adds to its allure, as only 564 automobiles were produced during the entire production period. With a remarkable combination of stunning design, impressive performance, and luxurious features, it’s no surprise that this automotive legend is widely regarded as a classic sports vehicle that had captured the hearts and imaginations of automobile lovers around the world.

The origins

Source: Bonhams

The Maserati Bora appeared in the late 1960s, during a time of great innovation in the automotive industry. The story of its creation is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. It all started in 1968 when Maserati’s CEO, Citroen, challenged their design team to create an automobile that would rival the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini. They needed something fast, powerful, and stylish, and they needed it quickly. The design team, led by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, got to work immediately. They began by sketching out their ideas and exploring different design concepts. Giugiaro was known for his innovative and futuristic designs, and he wanted the novelty to be no exception. By early 1969, the team had created a working prototype and was ready to begin testing. The new automobile made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March of 1971. It was an instant success, with critics praising its sleek design and impressive performance. The automobile was powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced 310 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 171 mph. The model also featured innovative characteristics, such as its fully independent suspension, which provided a smooth ride and excellent handling. Its unique mid-engine layout gave it a distinctive look and balanced weight distribution. Over the next few years, the brand continued to refine the model, making improvements to its engine and overall design. In 1973, they introduced a 4.9-liter version of the model that produced 320 horsepower, further cementing its status as a top performer in the sports vehicle world. Despite its success, the vehicle was only produced for a few short years, with production ending in 1978. However, its legacy lives on, and it is still considered one of the most iconic sports vehicles of the 1970s.

The 1974 model year

Source: Bonhams

The 1974 edition was a continuation of the iconic sports vehicle first introduced in 1971. While the overall design and layout of the car remained largely unchanged, there were some notable differences in the 1974 model year. One of the biggest changes was the introduction of a 4.9-liter V8 engine, which replaced the 4.7-liter engine found in previous model years. This new engine produced 320 horsepower, a modest improvement over the previous version. It also had a revised air intake system that allowed for better airflow and improved performance. In terms of the exterior, the 1974 release remained largely unchanged. Its sleek, aerodynamic design featured a long, low hood and a distinctive mid-engine layout. It also had pop-up headlights, which were a popular feature on sports cars of the era. Inside, the 1974 edition featured a luxurious, leather-trimmed interior that was both comfortable and functional. The dashboard featured a variety of gauges and controls, all of which were easily accessible to the driver. The seats were adjustable and provided ample support, making the car suitable for long drives. One of the unique features of the 1974 release was its hydraulic pedal system, which controlled both the clutch and the brakes. This innovative system provided a smoother and more responsive driving experience and was a hallmark of Maserati’s commitment to innovation and performance. Compared to previous model years, the 1974 Bora had some minor improvements to the suspension system, which provided a smoother ride and better handling. It also had improved sound insulation, which reduced noise and vibration in the cabin.

Did you know?

Source: Top Gear

Bora was a high-performance sports car that was owned by several famous individuals over the years. One notable owner was Johnny Hallyday, a French rock and roll singer, and actor. Hallyday was known for his love of automobiles and owned several high-end sports vehicles, including a Bora. He owned two different vehicles, a 1972 edition in silver and a 1974 release in red.

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1971 Maserati Bora: Italian hurricane

Maserati Bora could be safely called the most beautiful sports car of the 70s created by the famous maestro Giorgetto Giugiaro. It boldly stood apart among mid-engined roadsters of the 70s, survived the hardships of the fuel crisis, and saved the company from bankruptcy. 

Source: Supercars.net

The model appeared in difficult times – at the height of the fuel crisis caused by the Arab-Israeli war. It could be called a continuation of the style started by the magnificent Ghibli, but with a vision for change in the design era: its forms became sharper, the stern – shorter and higher. Moreover, the latter was most pronounced in the brand’s models, and the “blind” headlights appeared on the Ghibli even before they came into fashion en masse, and Bora finally fixed this trend in the design of the legendary company. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, this mighty “hurricane” was an outstanding vehicle. Remarkably, the same Giugiaro was behind the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Bertone, BMW 3200 CS, Aston Martin DB4 GT Bertone ‘Jet’, and many other outstanding vehicles. This model had an aerodynamic design with flip-up headlights and a stylish grille. It also came with sporty tires and a large tailgate that gave access to the powerful V8 engine.

The origins

Source: Your Sidney Mate

Maserati started building mid-engined vehicles in the early 60s, but these were endurance racing prototypes. For the development of a production model with such a layout, the company did not have the budget for a long time, until Citroen bought its controlling stake. Then the brand developed the concept of a mid-engined two-seater sports vehicle in 1968. That year the project was launched, internally named Tipo 117, to create a mid-engined supercar like the Lamborghini Miura and De Tomaso Mangusta. Ferrari was also on the cusp of launching its own mid-engined sports car. While Bora’s development began in the last quarter of 1968, the prototype was released the following year. The company’s chief engineer Giulio Alfieri was responsible for the technical part, and Giorgetto Giugiaro, who opened his own ItalDesign studio in 1970, took over the design work. The model officially debuted at Geneva Salon in 1971. In general, the heyday of the model fell during difficult times for the sports automobile segment. However, the centrally-engined Bora and Merak models saved the company from bankruptcy. 

The first Bora

Source: Drives.today

And so, in 1971, the “hurricane” finally appeared – a beautiful and super-fast sports vehicle like a storm, which Arab sheiks and Hollywood stars immediately began to buy. The car was based on a monocoque with a wheelbase of 2600 mm. In terms of volume (4719 cm3), it corresponded to the Ghibli power unit, but the engineers tuned it for softer operation, abandoning the dry sump lubrication system and reducing power from 330 to 310 hp. The body of the roadster consisted of steel panels made by Officine Padane of Modena. It was a low two-seat coupe with a wedge-shaped front, a wavy waistline, and a truncated tail. Developing the Maserati Ghibli styling motif, Giorgetto Giugiaro applied a three-sided glazed engine cover, a brushed stainless steel roof, single pop-up headlights, and a radiator grille integrated into the front bumper, divided into two parts by a trident badge. Unlike many of their colleagues, the creators of this supercar made it also practical, providing a small trunk in front. Hydraulic adjustment of the seats and pedals ensured a comfortable fit. The engine was isolated from the passenger compartment with double pane glass, and flexible rear subframe mounts and interior carpeting minimized noise and vibration. Power windows were standard, and air conditioning was offered for an extra charge. Genuine leather was used in the decoration of the seats and the dashboard. An eight-cylinder engine with a volume of 4.7 liters and a power of 310 hp allowed it to accelerate to an unbelievable speed for that time – about 280 km/h! It took less than seven seconds to accelerate from zero to a hundred. The automobile was well suited for long-distance travel: comfortable chassis settings, good sound insulation of the engine compartment, and the presence of an air conditioner made it convenient for passengers. 

Did you know?

Source: MotorTrend

The name for the model comes from nature. Bora is a wind of destructive force that rages around the Dalmatian Islands. The well-known journalist and racer Paul Frere, who won the 24-hour Le Mans marathon, called the Bora a truly aristocratic car.

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