Ghibli

Ghibli (2.0) - 1992 to 1997

In 1992 Maserati introduced a new model named after its 1967 classic, the Ghibli. Though it aimed at renewing the image of the Biturbo range and linking it back to the Trident's glorious past, it still used the longer wheelbase chassis (2,514mm) of the Biturbo coupés. The front end followed the lines of the recent range-wide restyling, though the headlights were of a cleaner design. The whole rear section was inspired by the Shamal, but was entirely remodelled with smoother surfacing. Its very high tail improved aerodynamic stability while also increasing luggage space.

Not as wide as the Shamal and still styled by Gandini, the new Ghibli represented a fully mature evolution of the Biturbo's style and proportions. There were fewer visible changes inside, though the interior was characterised by an ever higher standard of quality and finish.

The aluminium V6 engine also reached the ultimate stages of its development, with twin cam/4-valve heads and a power output of 306 hp from just 2 litres. Coupled to the Getrag 6-speed manual gearbox previously seen in the Shamal, it allowed a final top speed of over 260 km/h. The export model mounted a 2.8-litre version, which received the same 6-speed gearbox from 1995 onwards (see Ghibli 2.8).

Improvements were made to the Ghibli in several steps, most noticeably with the introduction of ABS in 1993 and of a new differential in 1995. Production of the 2.0-litre Ghibli reached a total of 1157 units in over 5 years.

Technical data

0-60 mph0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 sec.
Bodyworkthree-box two-door coupé seating five, Silent Travel sound-proofing system
Bore and stroke82x63 mm
Brakesdiscs all round (ventilated front discs with floating calipers), dual circuit, servo-assisted; ABS standard from 1993, drum brakes on rear wheels for emergency and parking
Brakes front
Brakes rear
Chassismonocoque steel construction
Compression ratio7.6:1
Cooling systemliquid-cooled, centrifugal pump
Displacements (unitary)
Dry weight2,855 lbs (1,365 kg)
Engine90° V6 light alloy engine block
Engine weight
First race
Front Tyres205/45 ZR 16
Front suspensionMacPherson struts, dual-rate telescopic dampers, coil springs, anti-roll bar, 4-position 'intelligent' electronic adaptive damping
Front track59.84 in. (1,520 mm)
Fuel & lubricant
Fuel feedelectronic injection, two IHI water-cooled turbos, two air-to-air intercoolers
Fuel tank17.58 Imp. gal. (80 litres)
Gear ratios
Height51.18 in. (1,300 mm)
Ignitionstatic electronic ignition, twin three-way catalysers and Lambda probe, electronic injection
Kerb weight
Length166.26 in. (4,223 mm)
Length-Width-Height
Lubricationfull-flow filter lubrication
Maximum power306 bhp at 6,250 rpm
Maximum torque38 kgm (275.5 lbs/ft) at 4,250 rpm
ModelGhibli (2.0)
One mile0 to 1000m in 25.5 sec.
Production dates1992-1997
Production start1992
Quarter mile
Rear Tyres225/45 ZR 16
Rear suspensionsemi-trailing rear arms, anti-roll bar, coil springs, dual-rate pressurised telescopic dampers, 4-position 'intelligent' electronic adaptive damping
Rear track59.84 in. (1,520 mm)
Reduction
Steeringhydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion
Timing gearfour valves per cylinder (two intake, two exhaust), two overhead camshafts per cylinder bank
Top speed161.6 mph (260 km/h)
Total displacement1,996 cc
Transmission6-speed Getrag + reverse, rear-wheel drive
Tyres
Weight distribution
Wheelbase98.97 in. (2,514 mm)
Wheelsalloy, front 7" J x 16"; rear 8" J x 16"
Width69.09 in. (1,775 mm)