For a sports car, which was originally to be presented only as a prototype, a production of 430 vehicles was already a lot. The name was again derived from a desert wind and it was the successor to the Ghibli. But unlike this, it had already the rear independent suspension. But it was really high time, because even the family cars began to get rid of their rigid axles. Although from some Maseratis is said, they would have had a better driving characteristics with rigid axle than for example with the DeDion axle.

The Khamsin pictured here had probably subsequently received a T-roof in USA, which had been not available from the manufacturer. Why Americans love the colour black for sports cars so much, will probably remain their secret. The Khamsin takes over the engine from Ghibli and thus almost the passable top speed. The body is a little bit more daring with the relatively pointed rear.

In the group of super sports cars, it presented a special offer. The Ferrari 512 BB was DM 20,000 more expensive, not at all to mention the Lamborghini Countach. However, the both were twelve-cylinder, albeit with the same displacement at Ferrari and still less case of Lamborghini. The was with much higher rotational speeds even clearly faster, the Ferrari in between.

The famous Marcello Gandini (Bertone) had given the Khamsin a rear whose edge had their effect still up to the side faces. Just look at the outstanding corner at the open door in picture 2 above. By the way, the rear apron was transparent, not recommended for valuable things in the luggage compartment.

At the brakes you realized the affiliation of Maserati to Citroën, because they operated with the known high pressure, but were bad to dose. The suspension was based on steel springs and had nothing from the softness of French palanquins. Together with the brakes, the power steering was hydractive, which was perceptible in an unusual directness. 06/15