Here's Maserati Bora: Discovering the Mid-Engine Legend

Rare ONES - Maserati, a name synonymous with luxury and high-performance sports cars, has etched its mark in the automotive world over the years. Among its iconic creations, the Maserati Bora stands out as a pivotal moment in the brand's history, marking its entry into the realm of mid-engine supercars.

The Maserati Bora is the Maserati's first mid-engine supercar. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Debuting at the 1972 Geneva Auto Show, the Maserati Bora was not just a car; it was a manifestation of engineering brilliance and aesthetic finesse. Named after the wind of Trieste, the Bora drew inspiration from the earlier Maserati Boomerang Concept, a Giorgetto Giugiaro prototype that hinted at the brand's pursuit of automotive excellence.

1972 Maserati Boomerang Concept by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign Giugiaro. (Picture from: Autoweek)

With a 4,700 cc DOHC V8 engine under its hood, the Bora signaled Maserati's venture into the mid-engine configuration, a departure from its traditional designs. While sharing similarities with the Boomerang, the Bora charted its course as a unique entity, becoming Maserati's first mid-engine supercar.

The Maserati Bora featured two kinds of the mid-mounted V8 engine, ie 4,7-liter made started in 1971 and 4.9-liter version started in 1973. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Despite its initial appearance not being as striking as the Ghibli, the Maserati Bora quickly gained acclaim for its performance. Launched in 1971 and discontinued in 1978, this mid-engined V8 coupe held its ground among the elite supercars of its time, competing with the likes of the Lamborghini Miura.

The Modena-based manufacturer, Maserati produced the Maserati Bora with a total of 564 units. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed Bora boasted a 4.7-liter V8, combined with Citroen legs, propelling it to a maximum speed of 275 kph. This era marked the pinnacle of Maserati's glory, as the Bora aimed to usher the brand into the modern automotive landscape.

In a limited production run, Maserati crafted a total of 564 units of the Bora, solidifying its status as a rare gem in the automotive world. The early models, equipped with a 4.7-liter engine, constituted the majority of production, with 289 units rolling off the assembly line between 1971 and 1978. The later years saw the introduction of a more potent 4.9-liter engine, adding 275 units to the prestigious Bora lineup.

The Maserati Bora appeared in public for the first time at the 1972 Geneva Auto Show. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The 4.9-liter engine version, introduced in 1973, demonstrated enhanced power, generating an impressive 330 horsepower. This power was harnessed by a five-speed manual transmission, driving the Bora's rear wheels and delivering an exhilarating driving experience.

As time has passed, the Maserati Bora has become a rare sight on the roads. The scarcity of these mid-engine marvels only adds to their allure, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike. In May 2020, a well-maintained Maserati Bora, showcasing only around 10 thousand kilometers on the odometer, was listed for sale at $139,000 (approximately Rp.2 billion).

In conclusion, the Maserati Bora remains a testament to Maserati's dedication to pushing boundaries and creating timeless automotive masterpieces. Its distinctive design, powerful performance, and limited availability contribute to its status as an enduring symbol of Italian automotive excellence. As we reflect on the legacy of the Maserati Bora, we are reminded of an era when innovation and elegance converged to shape the future of supercars. *** [EKA [27112020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATIUSA | WIKIPEDIA | DRIVE-MY | CLASSICDRIVER | CLASSIC | CAROLENASH | AUTOWEEK ]

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