The Maserati Quattroporte AM123 was a grand tourer produced by Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Maserati from 1974 to 1978. It was the fourth generation of the Quattroporte and featured a sleek, aerodynamic body designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Engine and Performance:
The Quattroporte AM123 was powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, which produced 240 horsepower in its most powerful variant. The engine featured dual overhead camshafts and 16 valves, providing smooth and responsive power delivery. A 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic gearbox were available.
Chassis and Suspension:
The Quattroporte AM123 had a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout with a live rear axle. It used coil springs at the front and leaf spring suspension at the rear for ride comfort and handling stability. The wheelbase was extended compared to its predecessor, which improved stability and reduced body roll.
Interior and Dimensions:
The interior featured premium leather upholstery, wooden trim accents, and power-adjustable seats with heating. The dashboard had a classic design with toggle switches and a prominent central console. Rear legroom and cargo space were increased, making the Quattroporte AM123 more practical for passengers and luggage than its predecessors.
Dimensions:
- Length: 5,030 mm (198.4 in)
- Width: 1,830 mm (72.0 in)
- Height: 1,330 mm (52.4 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,730 mm (107.5 in)
Production and Variants:
The Maserati Quattroporte AM123 was produced from 1974 to 1978, with a total production run of approximately 1,000 units. The lineup included several trim levels and engine variants, including the standard GT model, the more luxurious GTS, and the sporty Veloce variant.
Price and Sales:
The Quattroporte AM123 was sold in various markets worldwide, including Europe, North America, and Australia. Prices varied depending on location and configuration but generally fell within the range of $20,000 to $30,000 USD during its production run.
Conclusion:
The Maserati Quattroporte AM123 represented a significant evolution of the grand tourer concept in the mid-1970s, combining comfort, style, and performance. Although it had some limitations compared to more contemporary models from rivals such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, the Quattroporte AM123 remains a desirable collector's item among enthusiasts due to its unique blend of Italian flair and sporty capabilities.
