A mechanical restoration performed in 2022-2023 on this 1973 Maserati Ghibli SS is documented with invoices totalling $80,000. Its 4.9L/335 HP DOHC V-8 engine was rebuilt using new pistons, bearings, timing chain, tensioners, seals and gaskets; that process also included rebuilding its four Weber carburetors, starter and CDI box and water pump, along with installing a new radiator and new fuel lines. Designed by a young Giorgetto Giugiaro and unveiled at the 1966 Turin Motor Show, the long, low, fastback Maserati Ghibli was designed to implement Maserati’s four-cam 4.7L V-8 engine and a ZF 5-speed manual gearbox design. The Ghibli followed Maserati practice with independent front suspension with dual wishbones, coil springs and an anti-roll bar, a Salisbury live axle rear end suspended on semi-elliptic leaf springs and located by a single longitudinal Panhard rod, and 4-wheel disc brakes. Its styling, however, was a radical departure. Production of the new Ghibli began in 1967, in both spider and 2+2 fastback coupe configurations. Then, in 1969, Maserati began offering an upgraded version of the Ghibli, known as the SS, which featured a stroked version of the V-8 engine that now displaced 4930cc and, fed through four Weber 42 DCNF downdraft carburetors, was able to produce a whopping 330 HP at 5,500 RPM. This increased power output now enabled the Ghibli SS to rocket to a top speed of 174 MPH, making it the fastest road-going automobile Maserati had produced up to that point. Equipped with dual 50-gallon fuel tanks, and a distinctly Italian, luxurious leather interior with full instrumentation, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, factory air conditioning and a pushbutton radio, the Ghibli was perfectly suited to its grand-touring specification. Cosmetically refreshed in Fly Yellow with a tan interior and completely ready for its grand-touring mission, the example on offer, one of 1,274 Ghiblis produced between 1967 and 1973, is a rare and highly desirable 4.9L SS manufactured during the final year of Ghibli production.
