Description
Offered from my private collection is this exceptionally original and comprehensively restored Maserati Merak, completed in its factory-correct combination of Silver with rare Blue Velour interior, as confirmed by the Maserati Archive in Modena.
Manufactured in November 1973 during the celebrated Citroën-era of Maserati production, this early Merak represents one of the purest expressions of Giorgetto Giugiaro's iconic wedge-shaped design. It has been in my ownership for the past 20 years, during which time it has been carefully maintained and ultimately subjected to an extensive, no-expense-spared restoration carried out over an eleven-year period.
The goal was never to create a modified or over-restored car, but rather to return this Merak to the condition and character it deserved while preserving its originality and authenticity.
The restoration was undertaken to a very high standard and is fully documented with invoices, photographs and supporting records. The car was stripped to bare metal, all corrosion professionally removed and repaired with new metal where required, and refinished in its original factory silver. The underside and internal cavities were comprehensively treated and protected to ensure long-term preservation.
Mechanically, the car has been rebuilt and sorted throughout, including:
• Complete hydraulic system overhaul
• Engine sympathetically revised
• New slipper pads and timing-chain tensioners
• New exhaust valves
• Fully rebuilt carburettors
• Rebuilt clutch system
• New distributor and ignition components
• Electrical system restored throughout
• Air-conditioning system repaired and functioning correctly
• Stainless steel exhaust system
• Refurbished Campagnolo wheels fitted with correct Michelin XWX tyres
The interior has been retrimmed using period-correct blue velour material matching the original factory specification, complemented by black carpets and Maserati overmats.
The history file accompanying the car is extensive and includes a wealth of invoices, restoration records, original Italian registration documentation and a Maserati Certificate of Origin confirming the factory build specification.
Today, the car presents beautifully and drives exactly as a proper 1970s Italian sports car should. The distinctive Maserati V6, coupled with the character of the Citroën-derived hydraulic systems and the unmistakable Giugiaro styling, delivers an engaging and increasingly rare driving experience.
This is a collector-quality example offered reluctantly from long-term ownership and ready to be enjoyed immediately.
Further photographs, restoration documentation and detailed information are available upon request.
