One to Buy: Arancio 1976 Maserati Merak SS
Two and a half years after the original Merak had been launched (at the Paris Motor Show in October 1972), Maserati unveiled a much-improved version to replace it.
Dubbed the Merak SS, this latest iteration of the 2+2 V6-engined sister to the V8 Bora was most notably 50kg lighter and 30bhp more powerful than the original. Externally there was a new matt black chin spoiler and matching front grille between the headlights along with an SS badge on the tail fascia.
Unfortunately though, Maserati’s timing could not have been worse; sales had plummeted largely as a consequence of the Oil Crisis and, in May 1975, the company from Modena was put into liquidation.
Fortunately, a buyer was found later that year and, under the stewradship of Alejandro de Tomaso, the Merak SS remained in production until 1983, by which time 787 had been completed.
Today, these handsome machines have become highly sought after and a spectacular example of the breed is currently on offer at the Ruote da Sogno showroom in Reggio Emilia.
Finished in the iconic shade of Arancio with Nero upholstery, this superb machine has covered a little under 60,000km and is offered complete with ASI certification.
Reprinted below is Ruote da Sogno’s description:
Make: Maserati
Model: Merak SS
Year: 1976
Odometer: 59,552km
Registration: ASI, CRS
Showroom: Reggio Emilia
Price: €108,000
