Maserati Ghibli 4.9 1971 SS Spyder PDF Manual

A strong contender for the ‘most handsome car of the 1960s’ title, Maserati’s Ghibli debuted at the Turin Motor Show in November 1966. Styled at Ghia by the young Giorgietto Giugiaro and named after a Sahara Desert wind, the Ghibli rivalled the Ferrari Daytona for straight-line performance – its top speed was close to 170mph (275km/h) – while beating it for price and – arguably – looks. More than fifteen feet long and nearly six feet
wide, the Ghibli occupied an inordinate amount of space for a mere two-seater, but perhaps the most startling aspect of its appearance was the height, or rather the lack of it.

The Ghibli used a tubular steel chassis with a live rear axle, leaf springs and a single locating arm. The power unit was Maserati’s venerable four-cam, 90 degree V8, an engine derived from that of the 450S sports car and first seen in road-going guise in the 5000GT. This was used in 4.7-litre form up to 1970 when it was superseded by the 4.9-litre ‘SS’ version. Power rose to 335 bhp and performance was stunning, with 100mph (160km/h) attainable in under 16 seconds.

Even more sensational was the handsome Ghibli Spyder, launched in 1969 and the direct rival of the Ferrari Daytona Spyder. Giugiaro’s styling for an open-top version was arguably even more successful than the coupé and is regarded as a classic of sports car design. Ghibli production ended in 1973 after 1,149 coupés and just 125 Spyder models had been built. Of the latter, 79 were fitted with the smaller 4.7 litre engine (23 with automatic gearbox, 56 with manual transmission) and 46 received the larger 4.9 litre unit (of which 9 automatics and 37 manuals). Like the open Daytona, the Ghibli Spyder sold well in the USA, with 75 cars destined for that market: 40 were the 4.7 litre version and 35 the 4.9 ‘SS’. These build figures were provided to us during a recent visit to the factory archives and are not speculation.

Therefore, just 11 Ghibli SS Spyders were built to European specification, automatic and manual versions included. For the record, a total of 35 Ghibli Spyder buyers specified the optional hard top and 20 chose fitted luggage We believe that this is probably the finest Maserati Ghibli Spyder in existence; as its previous owners we are certainly biased, but having known the car for many years, and having tracked it down, sold it three times, researched its history, overseen its restoration and enjoyed driving it, we make that statement with a thorough knowledge of the car and its market.

So why is this Ghibli SS Spyder so special? Well, first of all, rarity: almost the same number of Ghibli Spyders were built as Daytona Spyders, aimed at a similar clientele and with similar price tags and performance on offer, but only 11 Ghibli SS Spyders were built to European specification, without the ugly add-ons required by US safety and emissions authorities, of which perhaps half were the desirable manual version such as the car
offered here. Secondly, the specification: this Spyder was ordered with all possible options, including hard top, fitted luggage, air conditioning, power steering, Borrani wire wheels and Becker stereo system, not to mention Mr. Benjamin’s special request overtaking lights and extra leather in the cabin.

Also little known to most experts, late Ghibli Spyders such as this car have a more attractive central dash layout, with chrome bezels surrounding rocker switches rather than plainer lever controls. Thirdly, the car is very well documented, thanks to diligent research over the years and factory assistance. Even the original certificate of origin is with the car, together with copies of all order and purchase documentation which makes for a fascinating read if you’re keen (and if you’re not, this isn’t the car for you). Finally, the depth and quality of the restoration by the best craftsmen in the business. Each has major international concours credits to his name (Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach), and they were given a free hand on this car.

Download Maserati Ghibli 4.9 1971 SS Spyder PDF Manual