The Maserati Bora was never as famous as its Ferrari rival, the 308 GTB, but today it is one of the most sought-after grand tourers from the 1970s. Originally launched in 1971, the Bora combined Italian flair with French engineering—a rare mix that now makes it a collector’s prize. Its mid-engine layout, borrowed from Maserati’s own Ghibli, was innovative for the era, and its 4.7-liter V8 (later 4.9-liter) delivered a sound and performance that still impresses.
Design and engineering: a heavyweight with French quirks
The Bora’s design came from Giorgetto Giugiaro, who won the contract over Pietro Frua, though its bulkier proportions, even compared to the sleeker Merak, made it look imposing. Under the skin, it was a study in contrasts: a raw, mechanical V8 paired with Citroën’s hydraulic systems, which handled brakes, headlights, seat adjustments, and pedals. The result was a car that felt both brutish and oddly refined, appealing to wealthy buyers like Karim Aga Khan and Sophia Loren’s husband, Carlo Ponti.
Inside, the cockpit was a throwback to 1970s supercar aesthetics: a slim three-spoke steering wheel, Veglia gauges with greenish markings, and plenty of black leather and chrome. The speedometer topped out at 300 km/h, though Maserati’s official claim was 270 km/h (168 mph) with a 0-60 mph time of around six seconds. The 300-horsepower V8 wasn’t just about raw power; it thrived in the mid-range, offering smooth, muscular acceleration without demanding revs.
A rare blend of comfort and performance
The Bora’s ride was surprisingly compliant for a car of its era, thanks to its wide Michelin tires (215/70 R15s) and Citroën’s advanced braking system. The brakes themselves were exceptional, with a firm, progressive feel that made heel-and-toe downshifts effortless. Dynamically, the car had a quirky character: unassisted steering was heavy, and the rear-end could overreact in corners, though this might have been due to worn bushings in the test car.
Practicality was another standout. The front trunk was larger than a Porsche 911’s, and there was a hidden compartment behind the driver’s seat, uncommon in supercars of the time. The Bora wasn’t just a track toy; it was built for long-distance comfort, making it a true grand tourer.
Unlike many classic supercars, the Bora never achieved iconic status alongside its Ferrari rival. But its rarity, distinctive styling, and engineering quirks have driven prices far beyond the 308 GTB’s. A usable example now sells for over £100,000, with restored cars reaching £140,000, nearly £40,000 more than the Ferrari. That gap reflects the Bora’s scarcity, its blend of Italian design and French innovation, and the fact that it never followed up with a successor as memorable as the 308.
When it launched in 1974, the Bora cost around £11,685, equivalent to roughly £114,000 today. That original price tag now seems modest, given what collectors are willing to pay. The car’s mid-engine layout, its V8’s throaty growl, and its mix of brutality and comfort ensure it remains a favorite among enthusiasts who value character over pedigree. The Maserati Bora may have been overshadowed by its Italian contemporaries, yet its unique heritage and engineering make it a truly special machine.
