1988→1993 Maserati Karif

Karif was the name of an African wind, chosen to respect the Maserati tradition of using wind names for the designation of its GT cars (Mistral, Ghibli, Khamsin, etc). The proportions were rather unusual for such a high-performance coupé. In fact it was the result of a no-nonsense approach: the Karif’s lines were derived closely from those of the Biturbo Spyder with a rigid roof welded on. The aim was to create a rigid body that would enhance the handling qualities of the shorter wheelbase model.

The colour and trim treatment followed the style of the Biturbo S range, thus with two-tone paint, blacked out chrome trim and an elegant interior clad in wood and leather. Though the car was equipped with occasional rear seats, it was basically a 2-seater but with a sense of airiness due to the large windows and thin posts.

Mechanically, the car was equipped with the most powerful version of the twin turbo V6 available at the time, of 2.8-litre capacity. Rated at 285 hp it was claimed to be good enough for a top speed of over 255kph, despite later versions being de-tuned by way of a catalytic exhaust. The relatively light overall weight combined with a 5-speed manual gearbox with special short ratios to add to the sense of performance. The Karif gained a reputation for being a demanding driver’s car, of which just 222 found their way in the hands of true enthusiasts.

Story by Maserati S.p.A.

In Detail

tags	biturbo
submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
production years	1988 – 1993
built at	Italy
production	221
engine	90° V6
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Twin IHI Water-Cooled Turbos
valvetrain	DOHC 3 Valves / Cyl
displacement	2790 cc / 170.3 in³
bore	94 mm / 3.7 in
stroke	67 mm / 2.64 in
compression	7.8:1
power	212.5 kw / 285.0 bhp @ 6000 rpm
specific output	102.15 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	218.39 bhp per tonne
torque	432.51 nm / 319.0 ft lbs @ 4000 rpm
body / frame	Unitary Steel Monocoque
driven wheels	RWD
front tires	205/50VR15
rear tires	225/50VR15
front brakes	Vented Discs
front wheels	F 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
rear wheels	R 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
steering	Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist
f suspension	MacPherson Struts w/Telescopic Dampers, Coil Springs, Anti-Roll Bar
r suspension	Semi-Trailing Arms w/Telescopic Dampers, Coil Springs, Anti-Roll Bar
curb weight	1305 kg / 2875 lbs
wheelbase	2400 mm / 94.5 in
front track	1500 mm / 59.1 in
rear track	1475 mm / 58.1 in
length	4043 mm / 159.2 in
width	1714 mm / 67.5 in
height	1310 mm / 51.6 in
transmission	5-Speed Manual
top speed	~255 kph / 158.4 mph
0 – 100 kph	~4.8 seconds