1981 Maserati Merak SS

By the beginning of the Seventies any supercar manufacturer needed a mid-engine design, Maserati was no exception so they employed the services of Giorgetto Giugiaro. The result was the Bora and the Merak which shared virtually the same underpinnings and body design. By 1975 Maserati had shrugged off the restraints of ownership by Citroën and were revitalised with De Tomaso as a partner. Fortunately for the Merak this would see an increase in power from the three litre Maserati unit and further weight saving - the Merak SS was the ultimate evolution. The Merak was now fulfilling its design brief to provide an alternative to the Lamborghini Urraco and the Ferrari 308/GT4. Like the Bora, the Merak was comfortable and refined and really only differed by engine size and the treatment to the engine cover. The 2+2 design did offer occasional seating in the rear. When production ceased nearly a thousand Merak SS had been delivered.

Offered here today is the ultimate Merak, the 1981 SS version, the lighter and more powerful variant in one of the best colour combinations. Finished in metallic grey with cream leather interior, this Maserati Merak SS has obviously led a privileged existence. The paintwork presents extremely well and the general condition of the car is better than any example Silverstone Auctions have seen.

Buyers should be aware that this lot has formed part of a large private collection and has been stood for some time in a heated environment, as such, some remedial works may be required. A light service has just been carried out by marque specialists Terry Keys and a mechanical report from Terry Keys will be supplied in the history file at the auction.

Undoubtedly an excellent investment opportunity, the SS is certainly the most collectible of the Merak variants and one that we believe will mature over time. Maserati Boras', in good condition, are virtually three times the estimate on this Merak SS, which offers great drivability without the heavy controls of its bigger brother. It is certainly a Grand Tourer with a comfortable interior with 'plus two' seating if required and usable luggage space. This car represents flamboyant 1970s Italian styling at its very best.