The American automotive world, often dominated by vintage classics and everyday workhorses, holds hidden gems beyond the familiar names of Detroit. One such treasure is the Maserati Biturbo, a groundbreaking Italian supercar that made its U.S. debut in 1984. While overshadowed by the more illustrious Ferrari and Lamborghini, the Biturbo offered a unique blend of performance and luxury that set it apart.
Its twin-turbocharged engine, a technological marvel at the time, delivered exhilarating power and responsiveness. The Biturbo’s sleek and sophisticated design, coupled with its opulent interior, made it a desirable choice for discerning drivers seeking a truly exceptional driving experience.
Beyond its impressive performance and luxurious amenities, the Biturbo also holds historical significance. As one of the first mass-produced twin-turbocharged automobiles, it marked a turning point in automotive technology. The Biturbo’s innovative engine design and advanced engineering paved the way for future generations of high-performance vehicles.
Its introduction to the American market in 1984 brought a taste of Italian exoticism to U.S. shores, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Maserati Biturbo, a pioneering model of twin-turbocharged engines, was introduced in 1983 with a feisty V6 and a five-speed manual transmission. Despite its impressive performance figures, including a zero-to-sixty time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, it was not positioned as a high-performance sports car.
Instead, it aimed to capture attention with its distinctive Italian styling and luxurious features. Although the Biturbo offered a unique driving experience and a relatively lightweight design, its high price tag and potential mechanical issues limited its sales in the American market. As a result, finding a well-preserved example of the Biturbo today is a rare occurrence.
One such example recently surfaced after being stored in a garage for over three decades. Owned by the same family since new, the car remained untouched and unmoved until the original owner’s passing. Now, in the hands of his son, who has little memory of the car, it is poised for a second chance.
With the help of a professional detailing service, this neglected Biturbo will be restored to its former glory, ready to once again hit the road and showcase the innovative engineering and timeless design that made it a unique and sought-after automotive icon.
Despite its low-mileage and striking appearance, this model remains relatively unknown compared to its American counterpart, the Buick Grand National. Perhaps the Biturbo’s unique engine design or its higher price tag hindered its popularity in the 1980s. Regardless, Biturbo’s innovative two-turbo setup, inspired by Formula One technology, marked a significant advancement in automotive engineering.
Although the Biturbo’s three valve per cylinder design was unusual for its time, it employed a straightforward twin-cam architecture. The camshafts were positioned above the valves, and timing belts were used instead of chains or gears. The two intake valves were actuated simultaneously by the valve cup’s edges, resulting in a relatively simple yet effective system.
Unfortunately, due to the car’s extended period of inactivity, the video does not feature the eagerly anticipated “Will It Start?” moment. The Biturbo’s restoration is complete, and it remains to be seen when its new owner will take it for a spin.
