28th Jul, 2024 12:00
The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction
1978 Maserati Merak SS
Formerly a museum exhibit and one of just 787 desirable SS models produced
Registration - TA0 9935
Chassis No. - AM122AUS2288
M.O.T - Exempt
Odometer - 29,000
This fabulous 1978 Maserati Merak SS is a real jewel. Originally supplied new to an American buyer, it was used in New York for many years, before being displayed in a museum between 2001 to 2017. This explains the enviably low but credible mileage of just 29,000 – though this is not warranted. This LHD machine arrived in the UK in 2020, after which the vendor commissioned a bare metal respray, transforming it from tired silver into the beautiful Maserati Dark Blue it is now resplendent in. The condition of TAO993S is described as ‘simply excellent’ throughout.
This car displays great attention to detail, a hallmark of all well cared-for collectables. The Campagnolo alloy wheels glisten, while the premium matching Firestone tyres all have ample tread. It has period number plates, the chromework is in perfect condition, and the interior is perfectly period, even down to an original 1970s Blaupunkt cassette player. The car even benefits from a recent set of new black wool carpets, which took a whole day to fit and cost a four-figure sum. The history file includes the original New York vehicle registration document, too.
The intriguing Maserati Merak, introduced in 1972, was effectively a 2+2 version of the exotic Maserati Bora, using a V6 engine instead of the Bora’s V8. The more compact engine allowed the extra row of seats to be installed. Giugiaro oversaw the design transformation of the Bora into the Merak; although the two cars are similar from the front, the Merak boasts a distinctive and structural-looking rear, complete with flying buttresses. The later SS models, such as this car, are most desirable, as they combined more power and less weight with a Maserati-designed dashboard, replacing the original Citroen SM-derived setup. The Merak would outlive the V8-engined Bora it was derived from, with production continuing for 11 years until 1983. A total of 1,830 cars were produced, including 970 SS variants.
In summary:
- Beautiful Maserati Merak SS in ‘excellent’ condition throughout
- Desirable SS version with the later dashboard
- Former museum car with a credible, very low mileage
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Estimated at £55,000 - £65,000
Registration - TA0 9935
Chassis No. - AM122AUS2288
M.O.T - Exempt
Odometer - 29,000
This fabulous 1978 Maserati Merak SS is a real jewel. Originally supplied new to an American buyer, it was used in New York for many years, before being displayed in a museum between 2001 to 2017. This explains the enviably low but credible mileage of just 29,000 – though this is not warranted. This LHD machine arrived in the UK in 2020, after which the vendor commissioned a bare metal respray, transforming it from tired silver into the beautiful Maserati Dark Blue it is now resplendent in. The condition of TAO993S is described as ‘simply excellent’ throughout.
This car displays great attention to detail, a hallmark of all well cared-for collectables. The Campagnolo alloy wheels glisten, while the premium matching Firestone tyres all have ample tread. It has period number plates, the chromework is in perfect condition, and the interior is perfectly period, even down to an original 1970s Blaupunkt cassette player. The car even benefits from a recent set of new black wool carpets, which took a whole day to fit and cost a four-figure sum. The history file includes the original New York vehicle registration document, too.
The intriguing Maserati Merak, introduced in 1972, was effectively a 2+2 version of the exotic Maserati Bora, using a V6 engine instead of the Bora’s V8. The more compact engine allowed the extra row of seats to be installed. Giugiaro oversaw the design transformation of the Bora into the Merak; although the two cars are similar from the front, the Merak boasts a distinctive and structural-looking rear, complete with flying buttresses. The later SS models, such as this car, are most desirable, as they combined more power and less weight with a Maserati-designed dashboard, replacing the original Citroen SM-derived setup. The Merak would outlive the V8-engined Bora it was derived from, with production continuing for 11 years until 1983. A total of 1,830 cars were produced, including 970 SS variants.
In summary:
- Beautiful Maserati Merak SS in ‘excellent’ condition throughout
- Desirable SS version with the later dashboard
- Former museum car with a credible, very low mileage
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Auction: The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction, 28th Jul, 2024
This auction of classic, performance and supercars took place on the final day of the prestigious Oulton Park Gold Cup weekend.
Please click on the image below to discuss finance options with the Apollo Capital team led by Andy King and David Moss, experts in luxury, supercar & hypercar finance for more than 25 years. Before you bid, you must make sure you have the funds ready or have approved finance in principal with Apollo.
Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
If you prefer to contact us directly please call 01606 828 124 or email info@hampsonauctions.com
