Highlights

One of only 275 4.9-litre Boras built - the most powerful Maserati offered
Original matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation
Converted to European specification
Accompanied by original owner's manual, books, and period brochures
Presented in very usable condition

The Appeal

The late '60s and early '70s were exciting times to work in the Italian sports car industry. Two-seater mid-engined sports cars were just taking off. Lamborghini had just unveiled the Miura, De Tomaso had the Mangusta, and Ferrari was hard at work on the Dino. Newly under Citroën management, Maserati commenced work on the Giugiaro-designed, V8-engined Bora in October 1968. The first prototypes were ready the following year, and the final concept was shown at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show.

Maserati's ongoing financial woes meant the Bora was short-lived. Just 564 were made of which 275 were the range-topping 4.9-litre version. We're delighted to offer one such car from 1975, just as Alessandro de Tomaso was taking control of the company.

Originally a US car, it has been converted to coveted European specifications, including chrome bumpers and side lamp deletion. With matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation, this Bora offers a rare opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, usable example, recently out of long-term storage.

Although it requires some mechanical restoration and is not currently running, its reportedly corrosion-free condition and well-preserved original interior make it a candidate for a light winter restoration project.

History and Paperwork

Originally a US market car, imported to Europe with all EU duties paid
Clean title, reportedly ready for registration in any EU country
Matching numbers confirmed by Maserati Classiche documentation
Accompanied by original owner's manual, books, and period brochures
59,659 miles indicated

The Condition

We're informed that it has been repainted once before; lightly patinated finish in eminelty serviceable condition
The bodywork looks to be very sound and straight with good panel fit and crips swage lines
The vendor assures is that there are no corrosion issues apparent
Interior looks in good original condition, featuring original three-spoke steering wheel and Veglia Borletti dials
period-correct 15" Campagnolo wheels and Grand Am Radial G/T tyres
Rare specific metal hubcaps

Giorgetto Giugiaro can do no wrong in our eyes. The Bora is yet another of his astounding designs, sporting a super-slippery 0.30 drag coefficient.

Black really shows off the svelte lines of this 1975 example, and besides the small changes made to convert to European spec, it remains commendably original inside and out. The vendor informs us that the bodywork is very sound and has only been repainted once before. As the photos show, the paint is now lightly patinated, yet eminently serviceable unless you're looking to build a Concours car. On the inside, all looks very smart, with minimal signs of wear to the upholstery, carpets and controls.

The Mechanics

4.9-litre (4,930cc) DOHC aluminium V8
Four Weber 42 DCNF twin-choke carburettors
Five-speed ZF manual gearbox (transaxle)
Four-wheel ventilated hydraulic disc brakes
Four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs
We're informed that the engine turns but requires servicing before running
Needs engine overhaul, exhaust rebuild, and air conditioning system repairs
Cabin electrics tested and reportedly functioning well

As the coveted (and rarer) 4.9-litre version, this matching numbers Bora will be utterly superb to drive once returned to the road. All looks well inside the engine compartment with none of the key mechanical components obviously missing. Following a period unused off the road, no attempt has been made to run the engine, although we're informed it turns freely. The vendor has not investigated the condition of the engine or gearbox internals, not served any other mechanical areas of the car.

For those who love nothing more than working on the oily bits, this is a compelling project. We'd leave the bodywork and interior as-is and coax that glorious 4.9-litre V8 back to life.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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