1981 MASERATI MERAK SS

KEY FACTS  

• This Maserati Merak SS is an impressive example of the stylish 1980s Italian 2+2 sports coupe, which benefits from a previous comprehensive restoration.  
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.0-litre V6 fed by triple Weber carburettors, delivering around 220bhp to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.  
• This original UK-market example was first registered in October 1981, and has been with the seller for one year.  
• This Merak SS is understood to be one of just 300 right-hand drive, UK-market examples. 
• The odometer shows 85,835 miles from new.   

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES  

• As a desirable ‘SS’ model, this Merak features a more powerful version of the 3.0-litre V6 and a revised interior, including the ‘Bora’ dashboard.  
• This example is finished in the bold shade of Rosso Maserati over a Nero leather-trimmed interior, with Rosso horizontal seat inserts.  
• It rides on the correct set of 15-inch Campagnolo alloy wheels, shod in Michelin XWX tyres.  
• The factory specification includes pop-up headlights, heater and ventilation controls, electric windows, a heated rear screen, and a leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel.  
• This example now features an aftermarket removable stereo, and an aluminium gear knob.  
• There is a box file filled with old MOT certificates, many invoices, photographs of the extensive refurbishment carried out, and maintenance done, which combine to support the condition the car is in today. 
• A spare wheel is also present.  

CONDITION  

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. 
• The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults. 
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 16 July 2021 at 85,563 miles, which resulted in a second-time pass with no advisories after an oil leak and issues with the windscreen washer, rear fog lamp, horn, front registration plate, and front brakes were rectified. 

SERVICE HISTORY  

• This Merak SS’ most recent maintenance was carried out in June 2022 at 85,615 miles by Bell Sport & Classic Limited. This included a general inspection of the car to assess its condition, new wiper blades, the interior door locking knobs replaced, investigations into the wiper blades and the low pressure buzzer not working, a new pressure sensor fitted, an ignition wiring repair, an engine oil and filter change, the heater tank repaired with missing connections reconnected, a gearbox oil change, a gauge backlighting wire repaired, new rear wheel bearings, a wheel alignment, the drive shaft bolts retorqued, both front brake callipers being stripped and the seals replaced, and the radiator refurbished.  
• A comprehensive restoration is understood to have been carried out in the 1990s, which included a full strip-down and a bare-metal respray.  
• Other notable maintenance includes the refurbishment of the alloy wheels.   

SUMMARY  

This Maserati Merak SS is a particularly impressive example of the rare and stylish 1980s Italian 2+2 sports coupe, which benefits from a previous comprehensive restoration. Understood to be one of just 300 right-hand drive ‘SS’ models delivered to the UK, reported to be in generally excellent condition, and presented with a vibrant colour scheme, it would make a discerning addition to any enthusiast’s collection, and a rewarding companion for weekend drives, longer-distance cruising, and visits to classic car shows alike.   

The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.   

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.