Frame the photo of this Maserati that is making history

Monday, August 5, 2024, is a day to remember in the history of Maserati and gasoline engines…

It’s over; you will never see another one. What? A V8 Maserati. The last one has rolled off the line, and the Italian manufacturer has made a solemn promise that it is the last in its entire history.

It’s difficult to pretend to be surprised in a car industry that is becoming more and more electrified. Maserati had already laid the groundwork in late 2023 by announcing a final limited series of its Quattroporte sedan under the code name Ghibli 334 Ultima. Ultimately, the last 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 580 horsepower has been installed in a Grand Finale version with a very dark navy blue paint, purchased by an American.

A chassis number that gives a taste of infinity: no. 999,999. Move along now. For reference, the Maserati engine foundry had been outsourced for years to Ferrari. That’s partly why the cylinder heads of the gasoline blocks were red, as seen here in this last creation. Finally, admire the beautiful carbon fiber finish signed by the Maserati workers who assembled it.

It is now clear that this piece will see its value soar as the legacy it will carry will be heavy with meaning. You will be able to tell your grandchildren that you witnessed the last characterful gasoline engines.

A Tradition Born in 1959

The V8 engine from Maserati debuted in 1959 with the Maserati 5000 GT. This car, created at the request of the Shah of Iran, used a V8 derived from the Maserati 450S race car. The 5-liter engine produced about 325 horsepower, an impressive figure for the time. The 5000 GT was not just a demonstration of power, but also a masterpiece of design, marrying elegant aesthetics with exceptional performance. This model laid the groundwork for the use of V8s in Maserati’s luxury and sports cars.

The 60s and 70s: The Golden Age of the V8

During the 60s and 70s, Maserati continued to refine and optimize its V8 engine. The Maserati Ghibli I, launched in 1967, became one of the brand’s most iconic models. Equipped with a 4.7-liter V8, the Ghibli produced 330 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of 275 km/h. This model is often considered one of the most beautiful sports cars of all time, embodying the perfect marriage of power and refined design.

The Maserati Bora, introduced in 1971, represented another significant step in the evolution of the V8. With a 4.7-liter V8, followed by a 4.9-liter version, the Bora offered a unique combination of performance and comfort. Its bold design, with sharp lines and a luxurious interior, made it a revolutionary sports car for its time.

The 80s and 90s: Innovation and Diversification

In the 80s and 90s, Maserati continued to innovate with its V8 while diversifying its model lineup. The Quattroporte III, launched in 1979 and produced until 1990, used a 4.9-liter V8. This luxury limousine combined the performance of a V8 engine with the comfort and elegance of a premium sedan.

The Maserati Shamal, introduced in 1989, was equipped with a 3.2-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 325 horsepower. This model marked a new stage in the use of turbo technology to enhance V8 performance while maintaining Maserati’s tradition of power and refinement.

The New Millennium: Renaissance and Ultimate Performance

In the early 2000s, Maserati experienced a true renaissance with models like the GranTurismo and the Quattroporte V. The GranTurismo, launched in 2007, used a 4.2-liter V8, later a 4.7-liter V8, producing up to 460 horsepower. This luxury coupe has become a symbol of Maserati’s new era, combining impressive performance with timeless design.

The Quattroporte V, launched in 2003, also utilized a 4.2-liter V8, followed by a 4.7-liter version. This luxury sedan offered an exceptional driving experience, with sports car performance and limousine comfort.

The Ultimate V8: The Ghibli 334 Ultima

In 2024, Maserati announced the end of the V8 era with the Ghibli 334 Ultima. This model, equipped with a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 580 horsepower, is capable of reaching a top speed of 334 km/h. The Ghibli 334 Ultima is not only a demonstration of raw power but also a tribute to decades of innovation and technical excellence.

A Lasting Legacy

The V8 engine has played a central role in Maserati’s history, symbolizing both power and prestige for the brand. From the 5000 GT to the Ghibli 334 Ultima, each iteration of the V8 has brought its share of innovations and performance, helping to forge Maserati’s reputation as one of the greatest names in luxury automobiles.

As Maserati looks to the future with hybrid and electric models, the legacy of the V8 will forever be etched in the brand’s history. Car enthusiasts will always remember the roar of these engines and the emotions they inspired. The Maserati V8 is more than just an engine; it is a legend, a symbol of the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection.

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