Why do these big-body Maseratis always show up in such rough shape? It’s amazing how consistent this namesake is in terms of being a major project when you see the word “Quattroporte” on craigslist. And the funny thing is, even with the model re-born in recent years as a modern luxury sedan, the same sentiment holds true – no matter the era! That said, I’d still take the original if I had to choose, mainly because it’s a simple machine in comparison to the new models. This Quattroporte resides in Sante Fe, New Mexico and is listed here on craigslist for $3,000 as a running project.
Now, truth be told, this Quattroporte could be in far worse condition than it is given what typically pops up in project car form. This one is at least a runner, and while the paint has been trashed by the New Mexico sun, the interior isn’t nearly as bad as it could be. The seller has some details potentially incorrect, as he describes the engine as a “302 V8” when in fact the motor was offered in 4.2 and 4.9 liters, respectively. Despite the model’s reputation for being unreliable, the drivetrain was stout and capable of moving the huge sedan briskly. This example, like most, is equipped with a Chrysler Torqueflite automatic, but a rare manual made an appearance on occasion.
Obviously, these were intended to be ornate machines, and the interiors were the highlight of this commitment to opulence. Leather coated every surface, and what wasn’t wrapped in cowhide likely had some exotic wood trim glued on top. While the interior is far from pristine, I’ll repeat that I’m a bit shocked not to see more devastation from sun exposure. It actually looks restorable, and while I’m sure the leather is quite dry, it’s at least not torn up and discolored. The seller doesn’t go into any detail about electronics like the windows, HVAC, or gauge cluster, but I’d assume there’s a few gremlins to sort out.
As you can see, the paint is pretty much shot. The top picture makes it look far more presentable as you gaze down the slab sides, so if you can ignore the hood, perhaps you can push off the respray for a few years. The asking price seems fair for what is undoubtedly a huge project but at least it’s a running Quattroporte which hardly ever happens. The pay-off isn’t going to be the financial kind as these Italian bruisers have been on the losing side of the valuation for too many years, but you’ll have an unflappable grand tourer at the end of the restoration. Would you rescue this one?
Well, buy it and you can say for the rest of your lift “I once drove a classic Maserati”.
Other than that it’s difficult to see what to do with a car like this. It would be painful and expensive to use as a daily driver, and it’s too ratty to keep as a collector’s item.
Maybe you could use the engine and transmission in a hot rod or kit car. It looks pretty sweet without that massive air filter box.
Interesting idea. A hot rod without a SBC or a LS? Would truly stand out. Probably not very practical but different for sure.
Boyd Coddington built a hot rod with a Lexus 430 V8, why not a Maserati powered hot rod
It actually has been done
The biggest problem with these is that they are fuel sucking monsters. If you have a heavy right foot you can expect milage numbers with single digits and all the associated costs in oil, filters and all the little bits that add up. In addition these did not have the designed as a carved from a single block like both the Mercedes and Rolls Royce.
They did not hold value well. In addition some interior materials were hugely comfortable but not well lasting. It think the assumption was that these cars would be pampered being garage kept and that was true in some countries but not here. They were treated as a normal car and they suffered as a result. In addition the bulky and sharp lines of the body did not hold up as a styling exercise over the long term.
These are sturdy engines, powerful engines and sturdy also means that the rest of the chassis is of a similar strength. Lack of a dealer base did not help and parts were a minor problem from day one.
As they become more rare I think the value will go up. They do make a statement but I am not certain it is a statement that everybody wants to make. I hope that this one gets saved. The price is certainly right for what you are getting.
If this beast is solid underneath, it’s an excellent buy, especially if you know a good Maserati mechanic. Cleaned up, it will look a lot better. Buy the car, and if you decide not to rehab it, spiff it up and flip it. There’s really no downside here.
”Runs driving. Title in hand.
302 V8 4 two barrel Webber carbs.
Luxury auto in need of restoration.”
That’s the complete description on Craigslist. Makes ya wanna run out and buy it, don’t it.
Might just be a parts car? The price is fair, posted 10 days ago.
https://nihilistnotes.blogspot.com/search?q=Quattroporte
Some Quattroportes are more desirable than others.
Wel, there is sort of a Maserati hot rod. C&D author Brock Yates built a Kurtis Novi Indy roadster replica that instead of an unobtainable at any price Novi V8, put a Maserati four cam V8 in it.
This thing would complete your classic tow truck project.
I own this car.
No really. I just put new belts on it and drive it.
Speedo tops out at 85. Pins at 95 at 4500 rpm and will pull 6000 rpm
Whoop D! but miles of smiles.
What is the motor then?
I have manuals, there in Italian, and tool kit.
but its got to be the 4.2l with the 3speed Chrysler trans.