Check out this spectacular Maserati Biturbo Shamal restomod in all its glory
In 1982, Maserati introduced the Biturbo, a car that would shape the dreams of a generation. Created under the leadership of Alejandro De Tomaso, the Argentine entrepreneur who took control of the company in 1975, the Biturbo was designed to challenge Alfa Romeo and Lancia. It combined bold styling, powerful performance and accessibility, making it a true game-changer.
Powered by a dual turbocharged 2.5-litre V6, the Biturbo was the first production car to feature a three-valve per cylinder setup, delivering an exhilarating driving experience. The car’s technical highlights included a Torsen limited-slip differential and semi-active suspension, ensuring exceptional acceleration and a distinctive sound.
Moreover, externally, the Maserati featured a compact two-door coupe design by Pierangelo Andreani, with elegant lines and classic technical features, like a rear-wheel drive, front-mounted engine, independent suspension and trailing-arm rear axle. The interior was luxurious, with options like Missoni fabric seats in the 1984 Biturbo S version, and a ZF transmission.
In 1989, Maserati unveiled the Shamal to mark its 75th anniversary. This was the ultimate evolution of the Biturbo line. Designed by Marcello Gandini, the Shamal featured a V8 twin-turbo engine producing 322hp, making it the most powerful model in the Biturbo family. The car’s redesigned body boasted aggressive styling, with muscular wheel arches, a new front hood with an integrated grille and unique rear fenders.
In 2022, Modena Automobili also reimagined the Biturbo Shamal with their Restomod MA-01 project, blending classic design with modern performance. Based on a 1983 Maserati Biturbo Coupe, the Restomod updates both style and engineering to reflect the Shamal’s advanced performance while maintaining the essence of the original.
On top of that, the MA-01 Biturbo Shamal features a modern 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, enhanced to deliver 500hp and 550Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5 seconds. The car uses the same ZF automatic 8-speed transmission as the Maserati Ghibli S, ensuring smooth and precise shifts.
The suspension and braking systems have been modernised for improved handling, with new Pirelli PZero tires and Brembo brakes. Visually, the Restomod retains the Shamal’s aggressive stance but refines it with a more muscular design. The body combines steel and carbon fibre for weight reduction, while features like redesigned air intakes, LED headlights and a new rear diffuser enhance aerodynamics and performance.
