Lot 034: 1988 MASERATI 222 E

Introduced in December 1981, the Biturbo was Maserati's first 'mass production' design. Instigated by the marque's then owner, Alejandro De Tomaso, it utilized a monocoque chassis equipped with MacPherson strut front and trailing arm rear suspension, power assisted rack and pinion steering, a limited slip differential and disc brakes. Powered by a reworked version of the Italian market Merak 2.0 SOHC V6 engine featuring three valves per cylinder (two inlet, one exhaust) and twin turbochargers (one per bank), the initial launch model was capable of an impressive 135mph. However, as the range grew to encompass four-door and spyder variants so the installation of larger 2.5 litre and 2.8litre powerplants brought even greater performance. Launched in 1988, the 222 E Coupe (of which a mere 722 are thought to have been made) was fitted with a 2790cc unit mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. With a claimed 246bhp and 275lbft of torque on tap, it was reputedly capable of over 150mph and 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds. Finished in red with grey cloth upholstery, this particular left-hand drive example is rated by the vendor as being in good (interior trim and wheels/tyres) to very good (engine, transmission, electrical equipment, chassis, paintwork and bodywork) overall condition. Believed but not warranted by him to have covered 118,000kms (78,000 miles) from new, it was imported from Italy in September 2001. Said to have had just two private owners from new, its specification includes central locking, immobilizer and CD player / radio complete with electric aerial. Treated to a re-conditioned electric clock (February 2005), new exhaust (April 2005) and recent full service, it is offered for sale with current MOT, road tax until December 2005 and appropriate 'MAZ 8081' number plate.