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LOT 43

1977 Maserati Merak SS Design by Giorgetto Giugiaro Chassis no. AM122US2210 Engine no. 114.63.30.610.135

Sold for US$53,200 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 43

1977 Maserati Merak SS
Design by Giorgetto Giugiaro

1977 Maserati Merak SS
Design by Giorgetto Giugiaro

Chassis no. AM122US2210
Engine no. 114.63.30.610.135


2,965cc DOHC V6 Engine
3 Carburetors
217bhp at 6,000 rpm
5-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Under 13,000 original miles
*Beautifully preserved and well-loved time capsule
*Meticulously maintained
*Only two registered owners in the last four decades


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Morris Albert Kaiserman, stage name Morris Albert, released a hit single titled "Feelings" in 1975 to great commercial success. With a new-found fortune, Mr. Kaiserman wisely purchased this Merak SS on July 10, 1978 at Newport Imports of Newport Beach California. Being an SS, the car had 30 additional horsepower, a 110-pound weight savings, and the more desirable Bora dashboard compared to the earlier standard Meraks. In period, Road & Track magazine stated "The more powerful, and rarer, SS version is the most desirable for collectors and driving enthusiasts. It elevates this small rocket ship into true junior supercar territory rather than being a merely a swift sports car"

After roughly 3,000 miles and a year of ownership, Mr. Morris Albert Kaiserman was ready to let go of his Maserati. On July 31, 1979, the previous owner's uncle acquired the car from the one-hit-wonder and held onto it until passing ownership of the family jewel to his nephew 3 years ago. During its time spent with the previous owner's family, the car had remained in California, only covering 11,000 miles over the last 40 years. As a result, this Maserati is in outstanding original condition inside and out. The paint possesses a deep shine with only the slightest of imperfections to be found upon close inspection. The interior is in equally phenomenal shape and exudes the perfect level of patina. Everything appears to be original and factory correct, with the exception of an electric ignition serving as the sole upgrade.

In 2016, the car was sent to the experts at Bobileff Motorcars where the entire engine was lovingly refreshed with new pistons and upgraded stainless steel valves. During the rebuild, a new clutch was fitted and the car's other major systems received overhauls. No expense was spared during this mechanical refreshing – receipts for the work performed are on file totaling well over $20,000.

This Merak has only traveled 12,840 miles since new, and registration records going back to when the car was purchased document this mileage. Since being acquired by the current owner from Bonhams 2018 Scottsdale auction, a further nearly $17,000 in maintenance work has been completed, including rebuilding the carburetors, rebuilding the distributor, overhauling the brake system, refurbishing the A/C system, new Michelin XWX tires installed, new battery, rebuilding the alternator, and cooling system refurbishment. While mechanical work throughout its life has been extensive, it has never been cosmetically restored, and wears its almost all original paint.

Driven over 2,000 miles in the last three years, including participation on the Tejas Turismo classic car rally in the Texas Hill Country, the car is described by the seller as "completely sorted and needs absolutely nothing." Accompanying the car is an extensive list of documentation, books, service records, tools/jack and original owner's manual, documents, and an original "Feelings" record by Morris Albert. One could search for a lifetime and not find another Merak SS as nice and original as this example. Do not miss this opportunity to acquire a true gem in a rapidly-appreciating segment of the market.

Saleroom notices

Due to California emissions laws, please note that this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.

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