The Maserati Ghibli Celebrates 55 Years, Still Commands Attention

On November 3, 1966, the Maserati Ghibli made its debut. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the name was a commemoration of a warm wind, a tradition that is still holding strong with the esteemed brands’ Grecale model.

The Ghibli is named for a strong and warm wind from North Africa that is synonymous with this car’s unique flair and sporty yet refined vibe. During the early days, the engine was carefully designed using the 8-cylinder powertrain found in Mexico and doled out 330 horsepower from its 4,700-cc version. After the hood was significantly lowered, the engine was equipped with a dry sump, which was perfect for the challenges grand touring presents.

After its official launch in 1967, the Ghibli saw its interior refreshed and could be fitted with a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. These were the configurations that the car-buying public loved. Maserati’s brand was noticeably strengthened one year later after the addition of a 4,900-cc engine. From 1967 until 1972, more than 1,200 Ghibli coupe models were produced, including one purchased by Henry Ford. Ford put it on display in the lobby of the esteemed Ford Product Development Center in Detroit.

With its incredibly eye-catching design, twin-turbo engines, and classic sports sedan vibe, Car and Driver called the 2022 Ghibli “a prime example of gorgeous Italian flair.” The 345-horsepower twin-turbo V6 is the standard powertrain, with upper trims boasting the 424-horsepower version of that engine or a 580-horsepower twin-turbo V8. The GT offers a more luxury-oriented design, while the Modena and Trofeo exhibit a raw aggression to attract buyers to their stunning performance abilities.

Rear-wheel drive is still standard, but all-wheel drive is now available on the V6. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the V8 model is estimated to get up to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. You can spec out the Ghibli with upper-end luxury touches such as leather and silk seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a faux-suede headliner. Every Ghibli model comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and the exciting ability to upgrade to a 10-speaker Harmon/Kardon or 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkins Pro audio setup.

Tags: Anniversary, Ghibli, Jim Butler, Jim Butler Maserati
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