If you’re of the car collector class where a six-figure purchase price doesn’t phase you, congratulations – that’s where the market seems to shine brightest as prices continue to rise for high-dollar sports cars. But $100,000 and above is a vast wilderness of possibilities, and at every level, you have to consider which cars represent the most potential for future appreciation and for driving enjoyment. The Maserati Bora is a 70s-era supercar that has resided in the shadows for decades owing to a variety of forces outside its control. This 1977 model listed here on eBay is said to remain highly original and was formerly owned by a Maserati Concours judge for 30 years.
When you look at the crop of 70s and 80s Italian supercars, there were numerous cars to choose from. The Ferrari Dino, the Lamborghini LP400/Countach, and several others. Maserati was often part of that circle of established sports car manufacturers, but its models often seemed to trail the others in terms of driving enjoyment and future collectability. The issues ranged from subjective to objective, with the former often having to do with the overall driving experience compared to its peers, and the objective concerns focused on quality control issues. However, the Bora seemed to sidestep these potential drawbacks, offering a comfortable and athletic driving experience with a controlled ride and comfortable cockpit.
The Bora’s values trail those of the Dino and Countach by a significant margin. If this Bora is as nice as the seller claims – and it certainly looks quite mint and highly original in the photos – it’s a relative bargain with an asking price of $176,500. Plus, it’s equipped with the 4.9L V8 which produced an impressive 330 horsepower and 355 lb.-ft. of torque. It was a relatively advanced model as well, with four wheel disc brakes, independent suspension, air conditioning, and hydraulic controls for a variety of systems, from the headlights to the pedal box to the bucket seats. Combined with its stunning looks, the Bora was a sports car deserving of the Maserati badge.
As much as looks like an entirely useless plaything, the Bora also had usable luggage space, a tilting/telescopic steering wheel, power windows, and other comfort-oriented features that made it more pleasant than you’d expect to log several hours in. And, we shouldn’t overlook the fact that it was designed by none other than Giorgetto Giugiaro. The seller notes that it presents as new and small details, like the rubber weather seals still feel supple and the A/C still working, inspire confidence that it is indeed as good as it looks. In the world of vintage Italian sports cars, is the Bora still significantly underappreciated? Thanks to Barn Finds reader Rocco B. for the find.
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