The Pray collection is a big part of the upcoming 2014 Amelia Island Concours at RM Auctions. It looks like the RM drinks social is at the Ritz. I am nervous already.
The Ghibli Spyder was so immensely-popular when revealed that it also created an entire cottage industry of custom conversions.
This really makes sense. The shark-like bit of the Ghibli’s styling was dramatically weighed down by the huge fastback coupe style. The rear canopy is large enough to overwhelm the delicate front shapes in total.
Therefore, seeing any out and about is a good thing. One offered for sale? Even better.
This red stunner will hit the block Saturday, March 8, 2014, with an estimate of $250,000-plus.
RM has actually sold a few of these over the years, with pricing topping $400,000 in a few cases.
1970 Maserati Ghibli Spyder
To be auctioned on Saturday, March 8, 2014
$250,000 – $350,000
- Chassis no. AM115S1177
- Engine no. AM115S1177
330 bhp, 4.7-liter double overhead-camshaft V-8 engine, five-speed manual transmission, independent coil-spring front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4 in.
- Offered from the Pray Collection
- One of only 125 Ghibli Spyders built
- Extensive service and restoration records
- An iconic automobile
The Maserati Ghibli deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the Lamborghini Miura and the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona when discussing wonderful, powerful Italian supercars of the 1960s.
The Ghibli, powered by a race-bred V-8 engine with dry-sump lubrication and two chain-driven camshafts per cylinder bank, could accelerate from 0–60 mph in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 154 mph, which were both remarkable figures for the time. It was known as an exquisitely manageable car to drive at both low and high speeds, as it had predictable, balanced, and forgiving handling characteristics. It was not only swift and compliant but also beautiful, as it was one of the first road cars designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, who was, at the time, working for Ghia.
By far the most desirable of the Ghibli variants is the open Spyder, which was exceedingly rare even when new, with only 125 produced. Genuine Spyders rarely become available for sale, making any opportunity to acquire one worth noting.
The Pray Collection’s Spyder was acquired by Mr. Pray almost a decade ago. It is finished in a rich red with comfortable brown leather upholstery, and it boasts such luxuries as air conditioning and a tastefully upgraded stereo, as well as the very favored five-speed manual transmission—all ideal for an automobile which Mr. Pray intended for use in Florida. Accordingly, after his acquisition, the Maserati underwent extensive sorting, which included a complete rebuild of the original engine, performed by Roush, as well as a rebuild of the clutch assembly, adjustments to the fit of interior components, and a rebuild of the tachometer. The carburetors were also rebuilt. Typical of Mr. Pray’s devotion to record keeping, service and restoration records that cover his entire ownership accompany the car.
Malcolm S. Pray Jr. was well known for the tasteful, elegant convertibles that he drove both around Greenwich and in Florida. This Ghibli, perhaps the most dashing of his fleet, is now ready to enter a new enthusiast’s collection.
Addendum
Please note that pursuant to additional research, it is believed that this lot was originally equipped with an automatic transmission.
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
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