1978 Maserati Merak SS Manual
VIC • Private
55
Odometer20,330km
Body typeCoupe
FuelPetrol
TransmissionManual
Comments from the seller
Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign in Turin, the Maserati Merak was first introduced at the Paris Auto Salon in 1972 as a 3 litre, mid-engine V6. In 1975 the Merak SS was introduced as a high-performance version of the car.
Created to compete against the Ferrari 308 and the Lamborghini 'Uracco,' the Merak had more power, was lighter and boasted a top speed of 245 km per hour [154 mph]. An effective combination when coupled with the vehicle's superb handling characteristics. The stylish design, including the unique sculptural 'Flying Buttresses' gave the Merak SS both a distinctive appearance and timeless elegance.
In a departure from the customary naming given to the Maserati models in this period, the word Merak did not refer to a type of wind. Rather, it referred to a star in the Great Bear Constellation. A total of 1,830 Meraks were built, of which approximately 600 were of the Merak SS version, with few of these being Right Hand Drive.
This original Right Hand Drive vehicle was ordered directly from the Maserati factory by the first owner Mr Carmelo Catalano, and delivered to Brisbane in 1978. It was used sparingly and remained in the family until it was purchased by the current owner in November 2007 with an odometer reading of 16,870 km. It was then placed on permanent display within his extensive and private vehicle collection where the dry storage conditions and regular attention to the body and interior, ensured and retained its Concours appearance and presentation.
Under both fastidious owners, this immaculate vehicle continued with professional and regular servicing by a European born and trained, fully qualified and experienced mechanic, maintaining its superb mechanical condition.
Again, with little use, it only traveled 3,400 km during the past 18 years averaging 180 km per year.
[Throughout its 46 years and with a current total 20,330 km reading, this car averaged approximately 440 km per year.]
Of particular significance is the Maserati Classiche Origin & History Sheets, Original Maserati Leather Wallet housing all Merak Documents, Guarantee & Warranty Booklets, Service Record, Use & Maintenance Handbook, Service Assistance Centres, Radio & Security Info, etc. Also included, is the original complete and correct mint condition Tool Kit, Jack and Accessories.
Further, this vehicle is eligible for Historic Vehicle Registration offering approximately a 90% annual Registration Fee discount along with a substantially reduced Insurance Premium.
The successful purchaser will have the option to purchase scarce, rare Factory issued Service & Parts Manuals, other publications, and the Victorian Number Plate 'V MERAK'.
This vehicle has been regularly invited to participate in motoring displays and events including Motorclassica International Concours d'Elegance, Australian Motoring Festival, Melbourne Grand Prix F1, RACV City/Healesville & Torquay Club Foyer Heritage Display, Maserati Melbourne City Show Room, MOCA Member, has featured in motoring publications and awards.
Several professional World Driving Champions known to the owner, have driven, appreciated and signed this car : Sir Stirling Moss OBE, Vern Schuppan AM, Tim Schenken OAM, Reg Hunt BRDC, and Gina Campbell QSO.
Much has been published and filmed on the Maserati Merak about its performance, its striking appearance and its iconic placing in the history of exotic super-cars. It also featured famously on BBC 'Top Gear - Super Cars' and superbly in YouTube 'Harry's Garage'.
I need only mention its exhilarating acceleration, its racing pedigree and its luxury leather and plush carpet interior to sum up the appeal as one of Maserati's respected finest.
Finally, due to the current owners advanced years and the need to downsize his collection, this fine exotic vehicle is now being offered for sale to an enthusiastic new owner who will derive great motoring pleasure from this iconic and desirable classic.
Genuine Inquiries Only 8am-8pm
Car details
øVehicle description
SS Coupe 2dr Man 5sp 3.0 [IMP]
Powerplant type
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
Cost to insureSponsored
Exterior colour
Red
Interior colour
Magnolia and Red
Body type
Coupe, 2 doors, 2 seats
Transmission
5 speed Manual
Engine
6 cylinders, Petrol Aspirated, 3.0L
Cost of financeSponsored
Registration plate
Check with seller
Registration expiry
2 months/July 2026
Build date
January 1978
Compliance date
Check with seller
Roadworthy certificate
carsales Network ID
SSE-AD-16975229
Suspension
Type
Independent front suspensionIndependent rear suspension
Engine
Engine type
Piston
Engine Location
Mid-Rear
Engine Size (cc)
2965cc
Engine Size (L)
3.0L
Induction
Aspirated
Engine Configuration
V90
Cylinders
6
Camshaft
Double Overhead Cam
Valves/Ports per Cylinder
2
Generic Engine Type
Piston
Power
136.0kW @ 6000rpm
Torque
244Nm @ 4000rpm
Transmission & Drivetrain
Gears
5
Gear Type
Manual
Gear Location
Floor
Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel
Fuel Type
Petrol
Fuel Capacity
85L
Fuel Delivery
Carburettor Multiple
Method of Delivery
Mechanical
Steering
Steering
Rack and Pinion
Dimensions & Weights
Length
4572mm
Width
1775mm
Height
1133mm
Wheelbase
2600mm
Other
Country of Origin
ITALY
Launch Year
1978
Launch Month
1
Generation Name
1972-01
Series
(No Series)
Badge
SS
Doors
2
Seat Capacity
2
Body Style
Coupe
Probationary plate status +
Australian Capital Territory
Approved
Western Australia
Approved
Northern Territory
Approved
Tasmania
Approved
Victoria
Referred
Queensland
Referred
South Australia
Referred
Pay less to upgrade to this car
Estimated cost before offer
$189,000Excl. Govt. Charges
Get an offer for your car and reduce the overall cost of this purchase
Accept your offer online
Get paid in 1 business day
Upgrade to your next car
Max is the sellerLocation
Caulfield East, VIC 3145
Member since
2017
Verified information
Phone number
Get in touch with the seller
ø Specifications have been sourced from Automotive Data Services Pty Ltd (Redbook) and are based on manufacturer standard features and specifications, some of which may require subscription. Actual features and specifications for this vehicle may differ. Please confirm these details with the seller.
+ P-Plate approval status is provided as a guide only, using data sourced from a variety of government and industry based sources. You should verify the status of the vehicle with relevant state / territory authorities and the vehicle manufacturer / authorised agent. carsales is not liable for any loss or damages (other than in respect of any liability which may not lawfully be excluded) relating to your use of, or reliance on, data contained on this site. By using this site you acknowledge that you use the information subject to the terms of the above disclaimer and notice.
Contact
Advertise with us
Local marketplaces
International marketplaces
Scan to download the carsales app
Want more info? Here’s our app landing page
App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo
are trademarks of Google LLC.