The Maserati Merak is one of Italy’s most charismatic mid-engined classics, blending exotic styling with a surprisingly usable grand touring character. Launched in 1972, the Merak shared much of its striking Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed body with the Maserati Bora, including the dramatic wedge profile, low nose and flying buttress rear pillars. Instead of the Bora’s V8, the Merak used a compact V6 mounted behind the cabin, giving it lighter handling and a more approachable personality. Early cars featured a 3.0-litre V6 derived from Maserati’s Citroën-era engineering links, while later SS versions gained more power and reduced weight, making them the most sought-after among enthusiasts.

For Automotive Superstore customers, the Merak is a reminder that maintaining a classic performance car is about choosing quality parts, fluids, filters, ignition components, batteries, detailing products and workshop accessories that respect the vehicle’s engineering. One fascinating piece of trivia is that the Merak’s dashboard and some hydraulic systems were influenced by Citroën ownership of Maserati at the time, giving early examples a uniquely French-Italian character. The Merak also stood apart culturally as a more attainable exotic than many supercars of its era, offering the glamour of a Maserati badge and mid-engine layout without the full intimidation factor. Today, it remains admired for its elegant proportions, rare presence and distinctive V6 soundtrack.