1990 Maserati Biturbo 430 from UK and Ireland - Comments

Near side door seal leaking.

Slightly erratic idle.

Leaking exhaust manifold when cold.

Small oil leak.

Suspect Air Conditioning.

In fairness I have purchased the car knowing about the faults listed. The specialist dealer who sold the car to me is supplying parts and dealing with these niggles as I write this report.

I have been searching for a good example of this model for a long time. They are not easy to find.

The car is a joy to drive. Apart from exhaust noise the chassis is surprisingly refined and quiet. Only very course and rough road surfaces upset an otherwise supple ride. There is considerable skill involved in mastering the technique of feeding power as the revs increase without upsetting the grip and balance of the car as you press on through the corners. Performance of this larger engined, non catalyst model is shattering. The 4 speed ZF automatic box is very responsive, smooth and long legged. I believe it allows the driver to extract far more performance from the car because the turbo's just keep spinning without the need to lift your right foot for gear changes. I consider the general build quality of the car to be excellent. The body received specialist rust proofing treatment when new and this has certainly paid enormous dividends. Interior is sumptuous. Specification includes electric windows and roof. Electric front seats. Electrically adjustable rear view mirrors and headlamps. As a family car it has so far proved very practical. Four adults can travel in complete comfort. Boot space is adequate. How many Italian thoroughbreds can boast this kind of performance and accommodation. The relatively bland exterior makes the whole driving experience a huge amount of fun for me. No one expects it to move with the kind of pace so easily achieved. For ultimate fun, buy one today.

These cars are supposed to have a growling exhaust partly because its what is called an "Oddfire" engine, this allows the crankshaft to take extra power, standard trim is between 250-280Bhp, but can easily go to 450Bhp, but watch the Turbo's don't blow! Also the parts are very high because it is a Maserati produced Race engine ie: £174 for the Plastic Distributor cap alone, because it's an odd fire design no one else makes them. Also if you have the Later 4 valve version you have to change the cam belt & Chain at rear of engine every 30,000mile's which is an engine out job plus the shims HAVE to be adjusted then price..