The Maserati Biturbo is simultaneously instantly recognizable and somewhat infamous among enthusiasts. However, the reputation that proceeds it may not be entirely deserved, as many of these turbocharged coupes (and convertibles) were abused by owners who didn’t know what they were getting into when it came to Italian car ownership. The convertible version is even more obscure than the coupe, with very limited production numbers when new. Finding a clean example of a Biturbo Spyder with a 5-speed manual transmission is next to impossible, so check out this 1991 model here on craigslist for $16,000.

Thanks to Barn Finds reader Curvette for the tip. The Biturbo Spyder was a significant car for Maserati, as it was first open roof model offered by the low-volume manufacturer since the Ghibli Spyder over a decade earlier. The Biturbo chassis was shortened in Spyder form, but otherwise, it looked near identical to the coupe model. The extensive wood trim and leather throughout the cockpit were hallmarks of the Biturbo, but the Alcantara / leather combo with generous side bolsters shown here seems to be a feature unveiled in the convertible version as the coupe had full leather seats with no noticeable bolstering. Of course, the most important detail here is the manual gearbox.

One of the last Biturbo Spyders I’ve seen come up for sale appeared here on Cars and Bids, and it was equipped with the optional automatic transmission. The 5-speed is an ideal match for the twin-turbocharged 2.8L V6 engine, which produces a healthy 225 horsepower and 246 lb.-ft. of torque. The Biturbo developed a reputation for poor reliability despite experiencing strong sales, but it seems to be a victim of its own success: the more people who dip a toe into first-time Maserati ownership will yield to higher volumes of owners who fail to realize what is involved in keeping a car like this running in top form (hint: it’s not cheap, even when it’s new.)

This still happens today, as late model Maseratis tend to be found for a pittance of the original MSRP on the used car market. To see a Biturbo like this that has clearly been loved is refreshing, and I don’t blame the seller for asking a slightly higher-than-normal price. The example on Cars and Bids sold for over $14,000 with the undesirable automatic; even though the miles were lower, I feel the manual gearbox gives this Spyder a heavy premium over a slushbox car. And, it’s unlikely you’ll see a comparable example pop up for sale anytime soon. Do you think the Biturbo’s reputation was unfairly maligned due to neglectful owners?