The Maserati Biturbo, which debuted in 1981, marked a significant shift for the Italian automaker. Designed during the ownership of Alejandro De Tomaso, the Biturbo was created as a luxury sports coupe to compete in the burgeoning midsize luxury car market. The goal was to create a vehicle that delivered thrilling performance with the elegance and comfort that Maserati was known for, all at a more accessible price point.
Living up to its name, the Biturbo was powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which was a first for Maserati and a rarity in the automotive world at that time. Initially, the Biturbo was equipped with a 2.0-liter engine, producing 180 horsepower. However, as the model evolved, engine displacement increased, peaking with a 2.8-liter V6 that generated up to 250 horsepower in some versions.
The Biturbo was a 2-door, 4-seater sports coupe, although convertible and 4-door variants were introduced later. The interior was as luxurious as one would expect from Maserati, with wood accents, leather upholstery, and an array of comfort features. Read more
The Biturbo was also the first production car to feature a twin-turbocharged engine and fuel injection, marking it as an innovator in automotive engineering.
On the road, the Biturbo delivered thrilling performance, with the boosted V6 offering strong acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note. The car's compact dimensions and relatively light weight further enhanced its sporty handling characteristics.
Despite its innovative technology and appealing design, the Biturbo was plagued with quality and reliability issues, which impacted its sales and reputation. However, over its thirteen-year production run from 1981 to 1994, Maserati produced over 40,000 Biturbos, making it one of the brand's best-selling models.
In the modern used car market, Biturbos can be found at a wide range of prices, with the most sought-after versions being the later models with the larger engines and improved reliability. Despite its checkered history, the Maserati Biturbo holds a unique place in automotive history as a bold and innovative attempt to redefine what a luxury sports car could be.