Shortly after Citroën took a controlling interest in Maserati in 1968, the concept of a mid-engine two-seat sports car was proposed in order to remain competitive with Lamborghini and Ferrari. Dubbed the Bora, the new model debuted at the Geneva Auto Salon in March 1971. Power was initially supplied by a four-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder, 4.7-liter V-8, upsized to 4.9 liters in 1975 when horsepower was increased to 320 enabling a top speed of 160+ mph. Compared to its competitors it was more civilized and practical, offering a full trunk in front along with a hydraulically powered pedal cluster and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. A total of just 571 were produced before production ceased in 1980.

This stunning 1975 Maserati Bora 4.9 coupe is finished in Blu Ischia Metallizzato over blue/black leather with black Wilton wool carpets. A U.S.-delivery car, it has been in California since the early 1990s, and is believed to have been there earlier in its history as well. Having only traveled a presumed correct 38,690 miles from new, this matching-numbers Bora has records dating back to its ownership through the 1990s. Earlier in its life, the car was disassembled for a complete, bare-metal repaint, which still presents exceptionally well.

The leather seats have been re-done with the correct pleats. The door panels and the Wilton wool carpets have been replaced, and the dash removed and fitted with the correct mouse hair. The headliner has been left original and in excellent condition along with the lower center console and rear window trim surround. All of the chrome and stainless remain in beautiful original condition, showing minimal age and no real pitting. All body seals have been replaced, new Michelin XWX tires have recently been fitted, and the hydraulics have been sorted and checked with everything working properly.

Tie rods and control arms have just been replaced along with a full tune up, including spark plugs, wires, cap, rotor, carb rebuild, and a change of fluids. The consignor notes that turn signals, brake lights, headlights, side marker lights, and interior lights are all operating as designed, and he adds that the engine starts right up and idles smoothly and freely and that the clutch feels strong. The suspension is smooth and quiet and the steering tight and precise. He further describes the Bora as a superb running and driving car that has excellent power and a smooth quiet ride. The body is straight and completely rust free. The undercarriage is nicely detailed and free from any rust, corrosion, or any kind of damage or accident repair. Accompanying the car is the original tool roll, jack, matching XWX spare tire, shop and parts books, as well as numerous other service documents and registration cards dating back to the 1990s.

This is a thrilling Maserati for any grand sports car collection.