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Production: 772 cars
The 'Tipo 107' Quattroporte, assembled by coachbuilders Vignale, was hailed as the fastest saloon in the world; whilst a top speed of 144mph and 0-60mph acceleration in eight seconds isn't quick by the standards of today's super-saloons, in 1963 this was pretty special. It also attracted plenty of praise for its modern yet elegant looks, with its curved side windows and low waistline, airy cabin and graceful narrow-pillared cabin. Equipment included a full Connolly leather interior and electric windows; air conditioning was optional.
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Adolfo Orsi senior realized his dream of launching the car in the USA in 1966, and the range was updated to meet American demands. The DeDion rear axle was replaced by a more conventional solid 'live' rear axle with leaf springs, which was not quite as agile but gave a smoother, quieter ride, and was tougher and simpler to maintain. The cabin was refreshed with new burr walnut paneling and air conditioning became standard - making the Quattroporte the only car in the world apart from the Rolls-Royce to have this factory-fitted to all examples. Options in the States included power steering, a limited-slip differential, and AM radio and some wire-spoked wheels - though these proved to be too fragile for very spirited drivers. Most obviously, Frua's large rectangular single-unit headlamps were replaced by twin round lamps, styled by Vignale, the coachbuilders constructing the customer cars. A further option was also available: the quad-cam 4.7-litre V8 engine as used in the 5000 GT's replacement, the Mexico coupe. This produced around 290bhp, and gave the Quattroporte a top speed of over 150mph; a higher final-drive ratio was offered as an option, which slowed it down a bit but led to more comfortable high-speed cruising. These cars were termed the 2a series, or Tipo 107a in factory code. Owners included the actors Anthony Quinn and Stewart Granger, Marcello Mastroianni and Prince Rainier III of Monaco; Peter Ustinov bought two.
In 1968, the Orsi family sold a major shareholding in Maserati to Citroen, then looking to expand its foothold in the luxury car market. Adolfo Orsi had not managed to make Maserati profitable, given the small numbers of cars it sold - but Citroen's financial state was none too strong itself.
Quattroporte I: 'Tipo 107'
The 2a, or 'Tipo 107a'
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