If the Maserati Biturbo represents Alejandro de Tomaso's effort to breathe new life into the Maserati brand, then the Tipo AM336 Ghibli represents Fiat's attempt to breathe new life into the Biturbo. None other than Marcello Gandini was contracted to update the exterior design while maintaining most of the core Biturbo dimensions. The result, while awkward in basic proportions, has a great early-90s sporting look to it; we especially like the boxed fender flares, like on yesterday's Lancia Delta HPE, and the projector beam headlights.
Those who have explored the Ghibli in the form of internet videos will probably agree with us when we say that you can really hear these things breathe. It's not due to a lack of power - 284hp from the 90 degree 24V V6 was more than adequate - but rather, due to the engine recipe, so to speak. With four valves per cylinder and a significantly oversquare power cylinder comprising a 91.6mm bore and 63mm stroke, not to mention turbocharged aspiration and a wide-open 90 degree V-angle for even better port flow, the Ghibli was designed to breathe.
Year: 1994
Model: Maserati
Engine: 2.8L V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 75,187 mi
Price: 22,900 CAD
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1994 Maserati Ghibli
Named after a wind just like the rest of the Maseratis, the Ghibli debuted at the 1966 Turin Motor Show. Due to the limited resources, it shared its tubular frame with the Quattroporte sedan and the Mexico grand tourer. The body was the work of Ghia’s new chief designer, Giorgio Giugiaro.
1994 Maserati Ghibli. The exterior is Burgundy with a Tan leather interior. 5 Speed manual transmission. 121,003 km. RWD. V-6 engine. Options include power windows, power mirrors, power seats, air conditioning and CD player.
With mileage exceeding 75,000 miles, we would have to imagine that this Ghibli has managed to keep itself on the road more often than not. We wouldn't expect parts to be as simple to source as Alfa Romeo parts are in North America, but European enthusiasm for these cars is solid, so we're optimistic. The trim is all present on this one, so other than some routine maintenance and the occasional unexpected part failure, the future owner of this car shouldn't need to source many parts to begin with.
Forgive our enthusiasm, but we ourselves are highly tempted by this Ghibli. It's no collector car, so mileage isn't a concern. And, in this case, the mileage is a source of encouragement anyway. The color combination is very fitting, the aftermarket wheels work well, and the overall condition is quite presentable. Is the Ghibli update enough to squash the complaints that many have about the Biturbo? On paper, it would seem so.
-Graham