The Maserati Khamsin’s Secret of its late Success

Once underrated, now cherished

The Maserati Khamsin, designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, stands as a paragon of automotive design. Gandini, renowned for iconic creations like the Lamborghini Miura and Countach, infused the Khamsin with a blend of artistic flair and engineering brilliance. Introduced during an era dominated by Citroën’s ownership, the Khamsin featured innovative Citroën technologies, such as hydraulic clutches, power brakes, and steering, which were avant-garde at the time.

The shape of the Maserati Khamsin immediately catches attention on the street.
Picture: Photography by streetwheelz1

Technical Mastery

Under its sleek hood, the Khamsin is powered by a 4.9-liter all-alloy V8 engine with quad cams and Weber carburetors, delivering between 320-330 horsepower in its European trim. This grand touring masterpiece is designed not just for aesthetic appeal but for substantial performance, blending speed with unmatched road handling.

Comfort Meets Performance

Classified as a grand tourer rather than a pure sports car, the Khamsin emphasizes comfort without sacrificing the thrill of driving. Its spacious interior, complete with original components like the tool kit and spare tire, ensures practical usability alongside luxurious comfort.

A Timeless Appeal

Despite its vintage, the Khamsin remains a testament to timeless design and functionality. With only 435 examples ever produced, it exudes an aura of exclusivity that continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Its enduring legacy is reflected in its practical features and the meticulous craftsmanship that has kept it both operable and in pristine condition over the decades.

Conclusion

So, let’s summarize what makes this car so special and the secret to its enduring allure today:

Engineering and Design Legacy: The Khamsin was uniquely engineered under Citroën’s oversight, incorporating advanced hydraulic technologies that distinguished it from its contemporaries, offering a novel driving experience that combines performance with ease of use.

Aesthetic Appeal: Designed by Marcello Gandini, the Khamsin’s bold, forward-thinking lines have allowed it to age gracefully, making it a symbol of classic automotive design now revered for its elegant and aggressive stance.

Rarity and Collectibility: With only 435 units produced, its rarity enhances its desirability among collectors, elevating its status as a valuable and sought-after collectible.

Modern Appreciation: The attributes that once drew criticism are now celebrated; its powerful V8 engine and innovative suspension system are particularly appreciated for providing a refined yet exhilarating driving experience.

The Maserati Khamsin is a piece of automotive history that represents the zenith of 70s car design and engineering. As a rare collector’s item, it offers a glimpse into a bygone era of motoring—embodying a blend of artistic design, technical innovation, and grand touring capability that is rarely seen in today’s automotive landscape.