Rising from obscurity at the end of the 90s, Maserati – whose legendary history has so often crossed paths with Ferrari – is once again innovating. Proof of this is the recent Maserati Spyder, derived from the ’98 coupé, which not only inherits a new naturally-aspirated V8 but also an electronically-adjustable suspension system so effective that it should soon be fitted to a number of Ferraris. The ‘Cambiocorsa’ version also features sequential auto gearbox control (with + and – paddles behind the steering wheel), an obvious ‘plus’ compared with the version with the traditional 6-speed manual gearbox (New Cambiocorsa price: €99,000).

Lovers of the 3200 GT and its boomerang-shaped rear lights may not like it, but the new Coupe version represents a significant evolution for Maserati. Admittedly, the styling at the rear has become a little more commonplace, but on the other hand, the powertrain and finish have improved considerably. The 370 bhp 3.2-litre twin-turbo engine has been replaced by a new Ferrari-sourced V8. With 390 bhp, this naturally-aspirated unit has a strong character and runs more furiously than its predecessor, if not better. But whatever the lap times, this engine is a joy to drive. Another new feature of this Maserati is the use of Ferrari’s F1 transmission, renamed Cambiocorsa, which allows you to change gear from the steering wheel. A real treat!

The main feature of this offering was the adoption of intelligent electronic damping: each gas-charged shock absorber adjusted automatically according to vertical and lateral acceleration. The data was processed by sensors to enable the suspension to adapt automatically to 14 different settings. The driver could do without traction control. The ‘Assetto Corsa’ model also featured a larger front anti-roll bar, stiffer suspension, 15mm lower ground clearance, soft compound Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tyres, racing brake pads, special ventilation, a new rapid-response power steering system, ergonomic sports pedals, a perforated Connolly leather interior, dark grey 15-spoke alloy wheels and ‘Assetto Corsa’ lettering on the door sills and red brake callipers.

Signed by the Giugiaro design office, the style of the Maserati 3200 GT is sumptuous in every way. This 2+2 is sporty without being ostentatious, and will never go unnoticed. The four tailpipes betray the noble engine available and the car’s character. The striking air intakes on the bonnet and the boomerang-shaped LED rear lights make this model instantly recognisable. Unfortunately, these lights were not approved in the United States, forcing Maserati to bring out the GT coupé (or 4200 GT ) with its more consensual rear end earlier than planned.

In 1996, it was decided to create a special series (limited to 60 units) of the Ghibli to celebrate the world speed record in kilometres launched on the water of Lake Lugano. Driver Bruno Abbate’s Maserati-powered dinghy, similar to the one in the Ghibli Open Cup, reached 216.7 km/h. As standard, the Primatist is equipped with a deformable steering column and a reinforced monocoque structure. The doors are laterally reinforced for passenger safety. In addition to its special ‘ultramarine’ colour, this special series features a boat logo on the sides of the car, while the entire interior is covered in blue leather and alcantara.

Following on from the Open Ghibli Cup Championship, Masérati offered a road version of the car entered in the competition. Compared to the production model, this version benefits from improved braking and a stiffened chassis. The exterior features speedline wheels and a badge on the doors. The 2.8 version will also be offered in a Cup version with the same features.

There was also an ‘Export’ version, powered by the 2.8 litre engine. Based on the 222 4v and 430 4v, it was less powerful but more torquey than the Italian block. It’s not a new feature, but one that has existed since the Biturbo’s inception. The reason is simple: to make each engine more interesting. Yes, not only is the little tyke slightly more powerful, but above all, it is much more aggressive at the revs. It grips 7,000 rpm like a politician gripping a ministerial post. Those accustomed to big engines or torquey fuel oils will prefer the 2790 cm3 for its outpouring of Nm from idle. From 1994 onwards, the Serie II benefited from a number of new features. There were telescopic arms at the rear for better handling when exiting bends. But the main change was the introduction of ABS, until then reserved for the extremely rare 4.18v saloon. It should be noted that a GT version appeared at the end of the production run, benefiting from the latest developments in special wheels and an axle taken from the 456.

The Ghibli II is ready for release. In order to clear stocks and continue to make news, Maserati decided to graft the 24-valve V6 destined for export onto its Biturbo. Externally, the 222 4v was no more and no less than a rebadged Maserati Racing. The differences are limited to the number of colours available, as with the Racing model the choice was limited to red and black. The 222 4v, on the other hand, comes in a full range of colours. The more observant may notice that there are a few black models with smoked rear lights, as on the Racing and Shamal. Unfortunately, no-one is able to confirm whether all the black 222 4vs had this feature or whether these were personal modifications.

The Racing was revealed to the press in December 1990 and was introduced to the market already in March of the following year. It was essentially a variant of the 2.24v. with high power, and was designed as an intermediate model under the more aggressive Shamal. The Trident engineers had sought to obtain high torque even at low revs (37.3 mkg at 3500 rpm), and coupled the engine to a new Getrag gearbox. The suspension was also modified, with the adoption of an active electronic control system with 4 damping adjustment positions. Despite the Racing moniker, Maserati has chosen to keep the interior very refined rather than spartan. The usual mix of wood and leather has been retained, as has the climate control system. In just two years of existence, 230 cars were assembled and are now among the most sought-after after models in the Biturbo range.

Named after a hot wind from the Mesopotamian desert, the Shamal marked a radical evolution in the Biturbo family tree. The car is based on the lines of the Maserati Biturbo designed by Marcello Gandini. The front of the car differs in its headlamps: twin headlamps (one round and one rectangular), a prominent front spoiler with integrated fog lamps and a small black grille with the Maserati trident at its centre. A typical feature of Gandini’s design is the asymmetrical shape of the bodywork for the rear wheel. The high central part of the roof acts as a roll bar and is always black in colour. The interior features front and rear bucket leather seats. However, the rear seats offer little legroom. The dashboard is fairly classic, as it was in the 1980s.