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Starting in 1969 Maserati offered a Spider version of the Ghibli. The clean lines that characterised Giugiaro’s design were a visual delight, the classic proportions of the front-engine configuration with a long bonnet and steeply raked windscreen produced this effect. It was strictly a two-seater. The fabric roof folded away neatly underneath a rear deck panel behind the seats and could be raised or lowered in just a matter of minutes. A stunning factory hardtop with large windows made the car a practical companion for all seasons, although only between 20 and 25 Ghibli Spyders were ever sold with it, making it an accessory that is in high demand amongst collectors today.
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Along with the Simùn prototype, the Ghibli Spyder was one of the last projects Giugiaro worked on for Ghia in 1967 before setting up his own consultancy. In the 4.7 guise, the Ghibli Spyder was capable of reaching speeds of 250 kph (156 mph).

In 1973, the new V8 unit was immediately made available on the Spyder and the cars that were fitted with it were identified as a Ghibli Spyder SS. With 335 hp and a 270 kph top speed (169 mph) to match its stunning looks, it was one of the most desirable production cars in the world at that time. It was also one of the most expensive. Of just 125 Ghibli Spyders sold in the five years that the model was available, only a fifth were to SS spec – which today makes it a universally recognised and much sought after classic, to such an extent that more than a few coupés have been transformed into Spyders down the years.

As on the coupé, an automatic gearbox could be fitted upon request and a significant number of Ghiblis were sold with it, as the United States was always the model’s main market. At the Turin motor show in late 1970, minor changes were introduced to the Ghibli model line up, mainly involving the headlights, dashboard and headrests

Story by Maserati S.p.A.

Chassis & Sales

1970 Maserati Ghibli 4.9 SS Spyder - did not sell for €156,600 Maserati’s own paperwork confirms that Ghibli chassis 1229, a right-hand drive 4.9 SS finished in Giallo and with Borrani wire wheels, was manufactured in September 1970 for ‘Salon Di Londra’ (the Earls Court Motor Show). After being displayed on the Maserati stand, the factory-built Spyder was sold by importers MTC Cars on 1 February, 1971 to a Dr. Collins. Collins had the factory add power steering in 1972 and changed the colour of the car t... more
Gallery: 2011 London Auction by RM

1971 Maserati Ghibli 4.9 SS Spyder 115/S.49 1259 - sold for $880,000 Likely the Finest Ghibli in Existence. Exceedingly Rare as One of Just 11 European SS Versions. Ordered New in Striking Colors with “All the Extras”. Offered with Factory Hardtop and Fitted Luggage. Well-Documented Example. Exceptional Restoration to Factory Specifications. An Important Maserati.
Gallery: 2012 Scottsdale Auction by Gooding & Company

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