On November 3, 1966, the Maserati Ghibli made a striking entrance at the Turin Motor Show, showcased on the Ghia stand. Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, the two-seat coupé redefined the grand tourer concept with a bold blend of performance, elegance, and innovative design. Named after a powerful North African wind, the Ghibli embodied speed, warmth, and an unmistakable character—traits that continue with Maserati’s modern models such as the Grecale.
Innovative Engineering Rooted in Racing Heritage
Under its sculpted hood, the Ghibli housed a newly developed V8, derived from the unit used in the Maserati Mexico. The 4.7-liter version delivered 330 hp, later joined by a more potent 4.9-liter option.
To achieve a lower hood line and enhance its sleek profile, Maserati adopted a racing-inspired dry-sump lubrication system, allowing the engine to sit exceptionally low within the tubular chassis. This technical decision became a defining factor in the Ghibli’s assertive yet refined stance.
Giugiaro and Ghia’s Design Revolution: A Unified Silhouette
Giugiaro’s design for Ghia introduced a groundbreaking concept: the body and cabin were no longer treated as separate volumes but unified into a single, flowing form. The geometric, taut surfaces were softened by his distinctive touch, creating a shape that was both elegant and unmistakably sporty.
The retractable headlights and ultra-slim front grille marked a new stylistic direction for Maserati, with the reduced Trident emblem positioned at the center. From the long, low hood to the sharply raked windshield and iconic triangular rear pillar, the Ghibli’s proportions exuded sophistication and speed.
Interior Refinement and Market Success
After its market launch in 1967, the Ghibli received an interior redesign the following year, along with optional automatic transmission in addition to the standard five-speed manual.
In 1969, the Spyder variant joined the range, available with an optional hardtop. A year later, both the coupé and Spyder could be specified with the 4.9-liter engine, earning the name Ghibli SS and reinforcing the model’s strong position in the luxury sports car market.
Between 1967 and 1972, Maserati produced more than 1,200 Ghibli coupés and 128 Spyders. Among its notable admirers was Henry Ford II’s grandson, who famously displayed a Ghibli in the lobby of Ford’s Product Development Center as a benchmark for excellence.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
The Ghibli has remained one of Maserati’s most iconic models, a symbol of Italian craftsmanship, performance, and luxury. In 2013, Maserati revived the Ghibli name for a modern sports sedan, writing a new chapter in the legacy of a car whose spirit has never faded.
