One to Buy: ex-Pierre Cornet 1971 Maserati Ghibli SS
When it debuted in prototype form at the Turin Motor Show in October 1966, there was nothing on the market to compare with Maserati’s new Tipo 115 Ghibli.
Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro over at the Turin-based Ghia studio, the Ghibli seamlessly blended cutting edge trend retractable headlights in a rakishly creased body which gave an elegant early taste of the wedge design language that would prove so popular in years to come.
Initially powered by a 4.7-litre version of Maserati’s legendary all-alloy dual overhead cam V8, the Ghibli was based around a steel monocoque bodyshell with double wishbone suspension up front, a live axle at the rear and servo-assisted disc brakes all round.
In late 1970, the Ghibli’s 310bhp 4.7 was superseded by a long stroke 4.9-litre motor with an additional 25bhp and considerably more torque.
Dubbed the Ghibli SS, a particularly fine example of this highly sought after Maserati Gran Turismo is currently on offer at the Tomini Classics showroom in Dubai.
Originally delivered to serial Maserati owner Pierre Cornet via the French distributor Thepenier in September 1971, the car was configured in spectacular Celeste Chiaro Met. with Nero upholstery as presented today. Included in the history file are copies of the original correspondence between the Maserati factory and Mr Cornet who retained his SS until 1985.
Presented in superb restored condition throughout and with a little over 65,000km from new, this beautiful late model Ghibli looks to represent excellent value compared to its period domestic rivals from the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.
