The Maserati Ghibli, a classic masterpiece in the realm of grand touring cars, made its debut in 1967 as a two-door, 2+2 GT. This remarkable car was the second Maserati GT named after a wind, following the Mistral. The name “Ghibli” refers to a strong, hot wind that blows across the Sahara and Arabian deserts, most commonly during spring and autumn.
Known for carrying massive amounts of sand and very little moisture, the Ghibli, also referred to as the Sirocco in other regions, is notorious for creating dry and dusty conditions along the north coast of Africa. The term “Ghibli” is specifically used in Libya, where it means “southern.”
Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro at Ghia, the Ghibli’s steel body featured a low, shark-shaped nose, giving it an aggressive and sleek profile. This design perfectly blended elegance and performance, capturing the spirit of 1960s automotive culture. The first Ghibli was powered by a front mid-engine 4.7L V8, delivering 310 horsepower. This engine enabled the Ghibli to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 154 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
Buyers had the option to choose between a ZF five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic, catering to different driving preferences. The car was also equipped with two 13-gallon fuel tanks, ensuring it could cover long distances without frequent refueling stops. Additional features included pop-up headlamps, leather sport seats, and alloy wheels, all of which contributed to the Ghibli’s allure as a luxurious yet high-performance vehicle.
In 1969, Maserati introduced the convertible version of the Ghibli, known as the Ghibli Spider. That same year, the slightly more powerful Ghibli SS was also released. The Ghibli SS boasted a 4.9L engine with four vertical twin Weber 42DCNF carburetors, increasing the horsepower to 335. This enhancement further solidified the Ghibli’s reputation as a formidable grand tourer.
This particular Ghibli, with its unique history, adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating vehicle. Originally delivered new in Venezuela, it came with the optional factory-fitted hard top, custom-made for each car. The current owner, who has cherished the car for the past 26 years, has seen it achieve notable success, placing first in several California Concours d’Elegance events over the years. Such accolades underscore the car’s outstanding condition and timeless appeal.
With only 1,170 coupes and 125 Spyders (including 25 Spyder SS models) produced, the Maserati Ghibli is a rare gem in the classic car world. Its limited production, powerful performance, stunning design, and historical significance make it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The Ghibli exemplifies Maserati’s blend of luxury and performance, creating cars that are both beautiful and thrilling to drive. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts and collectors, securing its place among classic grand tourers.
