Highly original Italian sports car in period condition
Stylish angular bodywork with a mid-engined V6 engine
Impressive interior with wood-trimmed wheel and velour seating
In need of some cosmetic restoration and mechanical work as it has been standing for a while
The Appeal
Introduced in 1972, the Merak was intended to be a ‘starter sports car’ that could rival the Porsche 911, but don’t let that fool you. With an impressive mid-engined V6, top-notch handling and very distinctive styling, these cars were loaded with a personality that demanded attention and were more than capable of holding their own against the more ubiquitous Italian speeders.
After all - that low-slung body, that independent suspension and that hefty V6 were nothing to be sniffed at, and makes for a truly exhilarating drive.
This example was originally registered in Italy, before arriving on Dutch soil. Now, it’s based in the Czech Republic, where it’s been registered on historic plates and largely kept static in storage. It’ll need a bit of preparation before hitting the road properly - but is still in driving condition. Maserati Merak Auctomobile_40.jpg274.89 KB
The History and Paperwork
First registered in 1973
Originally based in Italy
Reportedly arrived in the Netherlands during the 90s
First registered in the Netherlands in 2001
First arrived in the Czech Republic in 2017
Registered as a Czech historic vehicle
Has been kept in storage for two years in a dry garage
Car indicates 28,586 miles on a five-figure odometer
Sadly this can’t be verified as an authentic mileage
Beautifully appointed, without feeling pretentious, the sporty Merak interior is a fascinating school in 70s design. Velour seats and fabric line up with an array of dials and switches, creating an elaborate atmosphere that’s comfortable, without losing its sporting edge.
With lush velour seats, each one free of rips and tears, this interior gets off to a superb start that’s only accented further by the matching door cards. There’s the slightest patina of wear throughout, hinting at the car’s advancing years and adding a certain level of milieu to proceedings. The door cards have some wear to the fabric, but nothing of major concern.
The dials, switches and other instruments appear to be in good order with good, clear print, and the dashboard appears to be free of cracks or damage. The wood-trimmed steering wheel and distinctive switch gear demand particular note, and we’re particularly charmed by the warning light dial.
The carpets and headlining are in good order, with light signs of use, while the boot is clean and well-kept with no faults we can highlight. Maserati Merak Auctomobile_28.jpg155.18 KB
The Exterior
Bright red paintwork
Impressive wedge styling with pop-up headlights
Original Campagnolo wheels
The styling of the Merak is simply incredible. Bold, angular lines with pop-up headlights and an aggressive, low-slung stance make for a highly impressive sports car - one that grabs the attention of even the most seasoned collector.
This example was given new paint in the 1990s but is now beginning to look a little worse for wear. We can spot some cracking on the bonnet lid, some light paint losses to the car’s distinctive edges and some tell-tale swirling across the bodywork. However, it still looks the part and only presents these flaws upon close inspection.
The bodywork appears straight and nicely kept, and the chrome looks to be in good order. This extends to the pop-up headlights, which, with the rest of the car’s glasswork and lenses, appear to be in good order with no chips or cracks we can spot.
The car still boasts its Campagnolo alloys, which are wearing a fresh-looking set of Roadstone tyres. The vendor informs us that the car’s underside is in good order.
Engine bay is in good order with no major flaws we can highlight
Car has been standing static for some time, but is still starting and driving
When it hit the market, Maserati advertised the Merak as being capable of 140mph. We can’t vouch for that - but the car’s a genuinely powerful performer, and still very capable of keeping up with modern expectations.
This example has spent two years in dry storage, according to the vendor, and will require some attention before it properly hits the road. However, it’s still starting well and driving without any areas of concern - nor any reports of leaks, smoke or bangs from the engine.
Summary
Nicely presented, and in need of only some light attention, this should make for a highly desirable - and lesser spotted - Italian classic.
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