Saurer's Silver Marvel: A Unique Twist on the Maserati Merak

Hot MERAK Ever - In the early 1970s, Maserati, a name synonymous with exotic cars, introduced the Merak, a mid-engined supercar that followed the success of its predecessor, the Bora. Launched in 1972, the Merak set its sights on rivaling Ferrari's popular Dino 246. Beneath its sleek exterior, the Merak featured a stretched version of Maserati's four-cam V6 engine, which had initially debuted in the Citroën SM.

This one-of-a-kind Maserati Merak has become one of the most desirable sports cars of its era thanks to the foresight and design skills of Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland. (Picture from: AmazoEffect)

Designed by the brilliant Giulio Alfieri, the V6 underwent a capacity increase from the SM's 2,675 cc to 2,965 cc for the Merak, delivering an impressive 190 bhp and achieving a top speed of around 150 mph. The chassis, independent suspension, and exceptional handling echoed the V8-powered Bora, with cost-cutting modifications such as replacing the tubular rear subframe with an extension of the all-steel monocoque.

Under the visionary Paul Saurer, Carrosserie Saurer meticulously redesigned the bodywork, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship in aluminum. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)

Considered one of the finest contemporary V6 engines, the Merak's power delivery was smooth and potent, complementing its remarkable acceleration and top speed. Motor magazine praised its cornering power, emphasizing the harmony between performance and handling, establishing the Merak as the most successful Maserati of its time. Production ceased in 1983 after only 1,832 units rolled off the assembly line.

It's considered a 'Hot Merak,' featuring fixed headlights to replace the original flip-up design, accompanied by a custom grille adorned with round fog lights. (Picture from: Mad4Wheels)

Taking a unique turn, a specific 1975 Merak stands out from the typical narrative. Originally a left-hand drive Italian-supplied model, it underwent a transformative restoration by Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland in 1984.

The side profile of the Maserati Merak by Saurer reveals widened fenders and a distinctive rocker panel. (Picture from: AmazoEffect)

Under the visionary Paul Saurer, Carrosserie Saurer meticulously redesigned the bodywork, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship in aluminum. This modification wasn't a mere plastic addition but a testament to Saurer's expertise, elevating the Merak to new heights.

Adorned in silver with a red interior, the Maserati Merak by Saurer retains a familiar appearance with subtle yet impactful modifications. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Adorned in silver with a red interior, the Maserati Merak by Saurer retains a familiar appearance with subtle yet impactful modifications, and regarded as a 'Hot Merak' ever. Fixed headlights replace the original flip-up design, accompanied by a custom grille featuring round fog lights. The side profile reveals widened fenders and a unique rocker panel.

Retaining the original running gear, it features a rear-mid mounted 190bhp 3.0-liter four-cam V6 drivetrain. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)

Retaining the original running gear, a rear-mid mounted 190bhp 3.0-liter four-cam V6 drivetrain, the revamped model now features exceptionally rare 12-inch and 15-inch Gotti 3-piece split rim wheels, wrapped in bespoke 345x35 tires.

Today, this unique Carrossieri Saurer' masterpiece stands as a testament to the fusion of Italian elegance, French innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)

After its revival, the car spent years in Switzerland and Spain before making its way to the UK in 2009. Displayed at prestigious UK Concours and events, including the Graypaul Maserati UK Concours and the Octane Magazine Windsor Concours D'Elegance, this unique motorcar is well-documented and a standout addition to any serious collection. Regrettably, we were unable to locate a video featuring Saurer's Peacock. Instead, there is only this video available. Hope You enjoy it.

Today, this unique Carrossieri Saurer' masterpiece stands as a testament to the fusion of Italian elegance, French innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship—a must-have for any discerning collector. As quoted from Iconic Auctioneers, the Merak by Saurer sold for: £45,700 at the International Trophy Sale 2013. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CARSCOOPS | MOTORTREND | JALOPNIK | MAD4WHEELS | THEAMAZOEFFECT | MASERATI-ALFIERI.CO.UK ]

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