1992→1998 Maserati Ghibli

In 1992 Maserati introduced a new model named after its 1967 classic, the Ghibli. Though it aimed at renewing the image of the Biturbo range and linking it back to the Trident’s glorious past, it still used the longer wheelbase chassis (2,514mm) of the Biturbo coupés. The front end followed the lines of the recent range-wide restyling, though the headlights were of a cleaner design. The whole rear section was inspired by the Shamal, but was entirely remodelled with smoother surfacing. Its very high tail improved aerodynamic stability while also increasing luggage space.

Not as wide as the Shamal and still styled by Gandini, the new Ghibli represented a fully mature evolution of the Biturbo’s style and proportions. There were fewer visible changes inside, though the interior was characterised by an ever higher standard of quality and finish.

The aluminium V6 engine also reached the ultimate stages of its development, with twin cam/4-valve heads and a power output of 306 hp from just 2 litres. Coupled to the Getrag 6-speed manual gearbox previously seen in the Shamal, it allowed a final top speed of over 260 km/h. The export model mounted a 2.8-litre version, which received the same 6-speed gearbox from 1995 onwards (see Ghibli 2.8).

Improvements were made to the Ghibli in several steps, most noticeably with the introduction of ABS in 1993 and of a new differential in 1995. Production of the 2.0-litre Ghibli reached a total of 1157 units in over 5 years.

The 2.8

As per previous Biturbo models, the new Ghibli received a higher-capacity engine for export markets, given that the Italian model was limited to just 2.0-litres by way of extremely constraining tax regulations. Maserati had developed a 2.8 litre engine already in 1986 for the 228, and by 1992 this unit was good for 284 hp, guaranteeing superior performance.

Offered with a 5-speed gearbox at first, the Ghibli 2.8 received the same 6-speed Getrag box as its Italian-market sister from 1995 onwards. A 4-speed automatic was added in 1994. In 1996 the engine and exhaust were revised to comply with new EU emissions requirements and the model was renamed Ghibli Granturimo, or Ghibli GT. The general spec varied only very slightly.

Story by Maserati S.p.A.

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
production years	1992 – 1998
built at	Italy
production	1133
engine	90° V6
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Twin IHI Water-Cooled Turbos
ignition	Electronic Ignition
valvetrain	DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed	Electronic Injection
displacement	1996 cc / 121.8 in³
bore	82 mm / 3.23 in
stroke	63 mm / 2.48 in
compression	7.6:1
power	228.2 kw / 306.0 bhp @ 6250 rpm
specific output	153.31 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	232.35 bhp per tonne
torque	372.85 nm / 275.0 ft lbs @ 4250 rpm
body / frame	Unitary Steel Monocoque
driven wheels	RWD
front tires	205/45 ZR 16
rear tires	225/45 ZR 16
front brakes	Ventilated Discs w/ABS
rear brakes	Ventilated Discs w/ABS
front wheels	F 40.6 x 17.8 cm / 16 x 7 in
rear wheels	R 40.6 x 20.3 cm / 16 x 8 in
steering	Rack & Pinion w/Hydrualic 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	1317 kg / 2900 lbs
wheelbase	2514 mm / 99.0 in
front track	1520 mm / 59.8 in
rear track	1510 mm / 59.4 in
length	4223 mm / 166.3 in
width	1775 mm / 69.9 in
height	1300 mm / 51.2 in
transmission	Getrag 6-Speed Manual
top speed	~265 kph / 161.6 mph
0 – 60 mph	~5.6 seconds
fuel capacity	80 litres or 21.12 gal.