Description
FOR SALE BY PRIVATE COLLECTOR - 1974 MASERATI KHAMSIN
Antwerp Concours class winner 2016. Very rare original European spec, manual 5-speed. One of the early 10% production cars without nose vents and with integrated headrest seats. Ready to enjoy for touring with a worry-free fresh engine that’s seen less than 5000km since complete overhaul in 2012.
To make garage space for a vintage race car, this technically and optically very fine car is offered for sale by private owner.
NOTE: This car was subject of an article and video by Cinecars in 2016. Just Google for ‘Cinecars Maserati Khamsin’ and you’ll find a 5 minute video on youtube (with english subtitles) and the web feature with beautiful photography.
In 1974 Maserati launched their top of the range Khamsin model as a successor to the Ghibli SS. Backed by new investors Maserati invested in an upgraded chassis offering independent rear suspension and hydraulically assisted steering, clutch and brakes. Bertone was hired to design the nothing less than spectacular body. Despite the oil crisis, they produced about 420 cars between 1974 and early eighties. A UK car magazine tested the car’s top speed at 276 km/ h.
The Khamsin with serial number AM120 0082 was scheduled for delivery to Lebanon in 1974 but was redirected to England where the owner had a 2nd home. This was likely because of the threat of a civil war outbreak in Lebanon. The car was ordered with the optional Blaupunkt radio with recording function and a leather boot cover. It comes with the original spare wheel, original jack, original tool roll, original user manual and even has show plates and a keychain identical to what was in the Khamsin brochure. A period correct pony hair luggage set is also included. And of course a big binder with factory build sheet, documentation of restoration and bills.
After its stay in England, the car went to Germany where its engine was damaged. The car then changed hands a few times as a restoration project and was finally restored in Sweden between 2005-2007. Using the original dry sump, original crankshaft, and original Weber carbs, but with a donor AM116 block a new dry sump engine was professionally built.
I’ve imported the car from Sweden and it now has a Dutch registration with MOT (TÜV) approval until 2019 (valid throughout EU). Work I had done includes new Pirelli Cinturato tires, brake overhaul, hydraulics overhaul/ servicing, new Koni shocks custom made to original spec, carb tuning, alternator overhaul, front suspension rebuild etc. etc. I’ve used the car regularly on trips varying from 40km to 400km. It always starts at the first turn of the key and is an absolute joy to drive. No overheating problems whatsoever. The odometer reads 95. 000km now.
It’s a real head turner with its low Bertone design and spectacular color combination. Maybe more importantly, it’s a well-maintained car ready to enjoy from day one.
