1995 Maserati Ghibili Coupe

With a name evoking the classic Maserati GT car of the Sixties, the 1993 Ghibli was one of the more extreme developments of the Bi-turbo theme. Initially launched with a 300bhp 2-litre version of the V6 engine, the boxy shape was sufficiently beefed up with heavily flared wheelarches and aggressive, nose-down stance to appear quite individualistic. The smooth aluminium V6 engine, with four-valves per cylinder technology and twin IHI turbochargers, combined with traditional handling and excellent braking made the Ghibli an exciting Latin supercar that met with applause from the motoring press when launched. In 1995 Maserati followed up by offering the Ghibli with the larger 2.8-litre version of the quad-cam engine, giving roughly the same power output but significantly more torque and as a result performance jumped to Ferrari-equalling levels - 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of around 250km/h along with in-gear acceleration capable of besting the Ferrari 348. Inside, the Ghibli is typically sumptuous, with acres of leather, plenty of room for four adults and - of course - the signature Maserati clock that would look quite at home on the mantelpiece. Comparable with BMW's M3 when new, the Ghibli offers the modern Italian supercar experience albeit one clothed in a discrete, designer suit.