Unveiled at the 1966 Turin Motor Show, the Maserati Ghibli instantly captivated the automotive world with its striking design and formidable performance. Beneath its sculpted hood a powerful 4.7-liter dry-sump V-8 engine produced an impressive 310 horsepower. The car's stunning coachwork, masterminded by the visionary Giorgetto Giugiaro and crafted by Ghia, featured a dynamic, low-slung coupe silhouette, highlighted by sleek pop-up headlamps, a sharply raked windshield, and a sweeping fastback. The Ghibli quickly became a symbol of exclusivity and sophistication, adored by the world's most glamorous figures. Celebrities from basketball icon Wilt Chamberlain to comedian Peter Sellers, and even Rat Pack legends Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., all gravitated toward this automotive masterpiece, cementing it as a must-have for the international jet set.

As with any popular sporty coupe, customers eventually demanded an open-top version, and Maserati answered with a spyder that debuted on Ghia’s stand at the 1968 Turin Motor Show. With the roof removed, the coachwork took on a totally different character, emphasizing the flowing beltlines and luxurious dimensions. The prototype proved to be the first of only 128 examples built, ensuring a degree of rarity that further solidified the model’s cachet with collectors. At the conclusion of Ghibli production, 83 examples of the 4.7-liter spyder had been built, according to Maserati Classiche. Of those, just 25 were crafted as left-hand-drive, European-specification models equipped with a manual gearbox, placing the featured lot in exceedingly exclusive company.

According to Maserati Classiche records, chassis number 1079 was completed in February 1970, equipped with a 4.7-liter engine and manual gearbox, and finished in Giallo with a Nero leather interior. Destined to start life in its native country, 1079 was delivered new to Rome where it was reportedly first sold to an airline pilot before being exported to the United States in the mid-1970s.

The car then made its way to Ontario, Canada where it is said to have been treated to a comprehensive, multi-year restoration, which included the installation of exceptionally attractive Borrani wire wheels. Following its refurbishment, the car returned to Italy where it has since remained a jewel in the crown of several esteemed European collections. Now presented in factory-correct Giallo over Nero livery, chassis 1079 is notably equipped with a Blaupunkt stereo, air conditioning, and power steering, while also proudly retaining its numbers-matching 4.7-liter engine—the defining hallmark of a truly collectible Maserati.

Hugely desirable when new and having remained in fashion ever since, this breathtaking Maserati Ghibli Spyder will make an outstanding complement to collections the world over, certain to tug at the heartstrings of any enthusiast of notable Italian sports cars.