The best Maserati Merak models 1972-1983: Top ranking of the best Maserati Merak cars

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History of the Maserati Merak 1972-1983

Unveiled at the 1972 Paris Motor Show, the Maserati Merak was a response to the oil crisis and the need for more fuel-efficient sports cars. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Merak combined the aesthetics of a supercar with the practicality of a 2+2 coupé.

Design and engineering of the Maserati Merak 1972-1983

The Merak shared some of its bodywork with the Maserati Bora, but instead of a V8 it used a more compact 3.0-litre V6 borrowed from the Citroën SM. This allowed for two small rear seats, making the Merak more practical for everyday use. The car was also equipped with Citroën's high-pressure hydraulic system, which controlled the brakes, retractable headlights and adjustable seats.

The Maserati Merak immediately attracted attention with its spectacular design by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro. This 2-door 2+2 coupé looked like a true supercar, but under the bonnet it had a more modest potential - 190 bhp did not make it a racing leader at the time. The 3.0-litre V6 engine, borrowed from the Citroën SM, gave the Merak the character of Italian dynamism in a compact design.

The Merak was the little brother of the iconic Bora and, as Autocar magazine noted, "an exceptionally good-looking car". Its practicality was no less impressive: an ingenious layout allowed for two small rear seats in the cabin, making the Merak unique among supercars of the era.

The technical solutions included Citroën's high-tech hydraulic system, which controlled the brakes, the retractable headlights and even the adjustable seats. However, this system remained a compromise as the braking power did not match the car's performance.

When Maserati moved from Citroën to De Tomaso, an updated model, the Merak SS, was launched in 1975. The car received a lighter body, an original three-spoke steering wheel, an even more aggressive look and an upgraded 200 bhp engine with improved torque. The SS also had wider wheels, which improved handling considerably, although the hydraulic braking system remained the quirky highlight of the model.

Main characteristics of the Maserati Merak

Manufacturer: Maserati
Years of production: 1972-1983
Total production: 1830 pcs.
Designer: Giorgetto Giugiaro
Body type: 2-door coupe 2+2
Layout: rear central engine, rear-wheel drive
Engines: 3.0 l 90° V6, 2.0 l 90° V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual (Citroën C35)
Power: up to 220 hp
Torque: 199 lb-ft
Dynamics: 0-60 mph - 7.7 seconds; 0-100 mph - 20.3 seconds
Dimensions: wheelbase 2600 mm, length 4335 mm, width 1768 mm, height 1134 mm
Weight: 1400-1430 kg

The Maserati Merak is a classic that combines Italian aesthetics, engineering experimentation and the unique style of the era. By choosing this car, you plunge into the world of true Maserati automotive history.

Top rating of the best Maserati Merak cars

Maserati Merak (Tipo AM122) - 1972-1975

The first Maserati Merak, which was produced from 1972 to 1975, became a symbol of a combination of Italian style and engineering ingenuity. The heart of the car was a 3-liter V6 with 190 hp at 6000 rpm - this engine allowed the Merak to accelerate to a top speed of 150 mph (about 240 km/h).

In total, 830 copies of this model were produced, of which approximately 630 cars (until 1974) had a unique dashboard borrowed from Citroën SM. These versions were usually left-hand drive and featured three Weber double carburetors, thanks to which the engine developed 187 hp.

The right-hand drive models of the same era, on the other hand, received the dashboard layout from their older brother, the Maserati Bora, including the signature three-spoke steering wheel, which added a sense of sportiness and exclusivity behind the wheel.

The Maserati Merak of the early years is not only about power, but also about an exquisite balance between classic and modern technologies of the time, which is why the model is still considered desirable among Maserati connoisseurs and collectors.

Maserati Merak SS (Tipo AM122/A) - 1976-1982

The Maserati Merak SS, which made its debut in March 1975 at the 41st Geneva Motor Show, was a real milestone in the model's history. A total of 787 copies of this version were produced, which brought major technical and stylistic updates to the Merak line.

The main changes were a 50 kg weight reduction and an increase in power - the 3-liter V6 (2965 cc) now developed an impressive 220 hp at 6500 rpm. This increase was achieved thanks to the installation of larger Weber 44 DCNF 44 carburetors and an increased compression ratio. The top speed of the Merak SS reached 155 mph (about 250 km/h), which significantly improved its position among competitors.

The Maserati Merak SS can be distinguished by its black grille located between the branded retractable headlights, as well as by its updated interior with a dashboard in Maserati's own style. The updated interior adds even more premium and sporty charm, making the Merak SS attractive to true connoisseurs of Italian classics.

The Merak SS combines impressive dynamics, legendary design and state-of-the-art technology, which is why this Maserati remains a coveted trophy among collectors around the world.

Popular original spare parts for Maserati Merak SS

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Maserati Merak 2000 GT (Tipo AM122/D) - 1980-1982

The Maserati Merak 2000 GT is a unique car in the history of Maserati, which was created in response to changes in Italian legislation regarding engine displacement taxes. This model was first shown to the public at the Turin Motor Show in November 1977 and was officially produced in 1980-1982. Only 200 examples were produced, making the Merak 2000 GT a true rarity today.

Equipped with a compact 2-liter V6 with 159 hp at 7100 rpm, this version could reach a top speed of 137 mph (about 220 km/h). The smaller engine displacement was dictated by new tax regulations in Italy: cars with engines over 2000 cc were subject to 38% VAT, while smaller engines were subject to the standard 19% rate.

The Merak 2000 GT was an ideal solution for those who wanted a unique Italian sports car without additional financial burdens. On the market, it directly competed with the Lamborghini Urraco P200 and Ferrari Dino 208 GT4.

This model is distinguished by a balance of sporty dynamics and affordability, as well as all the signature features of the Merak line: attractive design, excellent ergonomics and premium interior. Today, the Merak 2000 GT is a real find for collectors, connoisseurs of Italian engineering and lovers of unique historic cars.

Popular original spare parts for Maserati Merak 2000

Need quality spare parts for Maserati Merak 2000? In our online catalog you will find a wide selection of original and certified analogues - from new to used parts, selected for different model modifications. We offer only proven parts for the Merak to ensure that your car remains in excellent technical condition and retains its true Italian charisma.