Maserati Merak classic cars for sale

History of the Maserati Merak

The Maserati Merak debuted at the 1972 Paris Motor Show as Maserati’s answer to the mid-engined sports car craze of the decade. Maserati, under Citroën’s ownership, took the platform of the Bora and replaced the V8 with a lighter, more compact 3.0-litre V6 derived from the Citroën SM, freeing up space for two additional rear seats. The Merak’s name, unlike other Maserati models, is drawn from a star in the Ursa Major constellation. Production ran until 1983, marking the last of the classic-era mid-engined Maseratis before a major shift in company ownership and direction. The car’s debut during the oil crisis, combined with Italian tax regulations, influenced the development of variants like the 2000 GT.

Model Range and Evolution

The Merak was introduced as a more accessible counterpart to the Bora, both in terms of price and mechanical complexity. Initially delivered with Citroën-designed hydraulics and a four-speed gearbox, it quickly evolved: By 1975, the Merak SS brought not only a power boost to 220 hp, but also lighter construction and a distinctive black grille vent on the bonnet. Earlier dashboards were pure Citroën in inspiration, later replaced by Maserati-specific interiors from the SS onward. The 2000 GT model, produced for the Italian market due to tax rules, featured a 2.0-litre V6 and rare details like a black side stripe and unique bumpers—making it the scarcest Merak, with fewer than 200 built. All versions were built on the Tipo AM 122 chassis. Production ended in 1983, with no direct successor.

Highlights and Market Data

• Mid-engine layout gave the Merak agile handling and a 2+2 seating arrangement rare among its competitors.
• Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Italdesign, maintaining taut geometric lines at the front—shared with Bora—while using distinctive flying buttresses to the rear.
• The Merak SS variant saw reduced weight and higher output, thanks to three Weber 44 DCNF carburettors and compression raised to 9:1, with acceleration from 0–100 km/h in as little as 6.5 seconds for some examples.
• Early models feature intricate Citroën hydraulic systems, later phased out in favour of simpler Maserati mechanicals.
• Low total production: about 1,830 cars (with around 1,000 SS).
• Interior ranges from Citroën-influenced (early cars) to classic Maserati with round gauges and sport steering wheels (SS and later).
• Factory colours included flamboyant schemes like Rosso Fuoco (red), Carta da Zucchero (light blue for 2000 GT), and metallic gold.
• The Merak (Tipo AM 122) represents 100% of all classic Maseratis of this model listed on our marketplace, indicating it is the exclusive representative for this make/model in current classic car listings.
• Demand for the Merak is equally concentrated, making up 100% of Maserati listing views for the series, showing a focused and loyal interest among enthusiasts and collectors.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

• Merak SS: Built from 1975, featuring a power hike to 220 hp via upgraded carbs and compression. Lighter weight—about 50 kg less than the base model—faster acceleration, and visual differences like the vented black bonnet grille. Around 1,000 built.
• Merak 2000 GT: The tax-friendly Italian-market version with a 2.0-litre V6, black decorative stripes, matte black bumpers, and 'Carta da Zucchero' blue available, making it the rarest Merak with an estimated 196–200 produced.
• US versions: Modified bumpers, reduced Citroën hydraulics, some models with right-hand drive, totalling approximately 300 units within the SS batch.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

• The V6 engine is prone to exhaust valve weaknesses—these should be replaced preventively, as failure can cause severe damage.
• Head gaskets often fail on cars that are rarely driven or left unused for long periods.
• Valve guides may wear excessively, causing blue exhaust smoke—repairs are costly and may reveal further underlying problems.
• Engine spare parts can be challenging to source and are expensive, especially for rare versions.
• Early models use Citroën’s complex and failure-prone hydraulic systems for brakes and clutch; later cars switched to Maserati mechanicals, which are less problematic.
• Gearbox (mainly the Citroën-based 5-speed) is robust, though synchro rings can wear; hydraulic clutches in SS are maintenance-intensive.
• Suspension: Ageing cars often suffer from worn bushings, dampers, and springs, causing vague handling—comprehensive replacement is usually needed.
• Braking system requires frequent attention. The early design with inboard rear discs is especially prone to trouble.
• The body is susceptible to rust, often concealed around the chassis frame, sills, inner wings, front suspension mounts, and fuel tank enclosures. Hidden corrosion is a persistent risk.
• Very limited passive safety: no airbags or modern crash structures.
• Routine maintenance is cost-intensive for a classic, exacerbated by the specialised knowledge required for both French (Citroën) and Italian technical aspects.
• Parts availability varies by variant; expert support and records are essential. Only cars with thorough documentation/history are recommended for purchase.

Engine, Performance and Handling

The Merak’s 3.0-litre V6 (and the 2.0-litre for the 2000 GT) delivered brisk performance in the context of the 1970s, with SS models capable of 245–250 km/h and 0–100 km/h in under 7 seconds, thanks to triple Weber carburettors and reduced curb weight by approximately 50 kg over earlier models. Independent suspension and disc brakes all round ensured agile, responsive handling, making the Merak feel more nimble than the larger, heavier Bora. Critically, steering and brake feel improved as the problematic Citroën systems were phased out in later versions, further sharpening the driving experience. The car’s balance, direct steering, and pronounced engine note all contribute to a uniquely Italian sports car feel. Popular variants to highlight:

• Merak SS (1975–1983): 3.0-litre V6, 220 hp, lighter chassis, improved dashboard (Maserati style), black front grille, and enhanced mechanicals. Most sought-after for performance-oriented drivers.
• Merak 2000 GT (1977–1983): Unique to the Italian market, features unique paintwork, 2.0-litre V6, rarest of all Meraks.

Design: Interior, Comfort, Exterior

Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Merak embodies 1970s Italian sports car geometry—wedge-shaped with a low bonnet line and flying rear buttresses. Early Meraks share front panels with the Bora, while the rear end is lighter and fitted with open buttresses instead of glass. Wheels are Campagnolo alloys (silver, gold for some variants).

The cockpit evolved from Citroën-inspired dashboards, oval dials, and unique controls to Maserati’s own round-gauge dashboard in the SS, providing a more traditional Italian sports car ambience. Upholstery ranged from synthetic to leather, with some models featuring plush carpets and even air conditioning. Later cars included a refined three-spoke steering wheel and simpler instrumentation. Cabin ergonomics are pure Italian: compact sports steering wheel, offbeat gauge layout, and seats designed for style over prolonged comfort. Special colours such as Carta da Zucchero blue (2000 GT), gold, deep red, and vivid silvers underline the bespoke approach of 1970s Maserati. Accessories sometimes included air con, cigarette lighters, and sports interior trims—always in line with period tastes.

Other Relevant Features

Documentation and originality are prized; most collector-grade Meraks will have Maserati Classiche certification or full provenance. Parts for rare versions (2000 GT or early Citroën-interior models) pose a higher logistical challenge, though the standard service for common wear is manageable. The Merak’s place in popular culture and the unique crossover of Citroën and Maserati engineering adds to its curiosity value among Italian car connoisseurs.

Summary

With production numbers just shy of 2,000 units and engineering shared between Italian and French innovators, the Maserati Merak stands apart from typical classic sports cars of its era. Its 2+2 cockpit, V6 performance, and Giorgetto Giugiaro’s sharp design make it a unique offer in the world of 1970s exotics. For those drawn by agile dynamics and sculptural Italian style—tempered with an appetite for hands-on maintenance—the Merak is the Maserati to look for.