The Maserati Biturbo was launched in 1981 as the brand's ambitious entry into the compact executive sedan market, aiming directly at cars like the BMW 3 Series. Its main draw was its namesake twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a first for a production car, wrapped in boxy, contemporary styling. The 222, introduced in 1988, was a facelifted and mechanically improved evolution of the Biturbo, with styling tweaks by Marcello Gandini.
Despite a notorious reputation for electrical and mechanical issues, these cars have a dedicated following. Collectors appreciate them as an affordable entry point into classic Maserati ownership and for their very 1980s character. The combination of a potent turbo V6, opulent leather and wood interiors, and Italian design makes them a unique, if challenging, classic. Later 222 models are generally more reliable and sought-after.
The market reflects the car's high-maintenance reality. With an average sale price under $15,000, the initial cost of entry is low. However, the wide spread up to nearly $50,000 shows that pristine, well-documented, and later-series cars command a significant premium. Most examples trade for modest sums, as buyers know the purchase price is only the beginning of the ownership cost.
Buying Tips
- A comprehensive service history is essential; the V6 is an interference engine, so proof of regular timing belt changes is critical.
- Scrutinize all electronics, from the dashboard clock to the power windows. Faulty fuse boxes and amateur wiring repairs are common.
- Check for rust in the wheel arches, sills, floor pans, and around the front and rear glass.
- Look for blue smoke from the exhaust on startup or under boost, which indicates failing turbo seals.
- Expect interior wear. Shrinking dash leather, sagging headliners, and worn seat bolsters are common and expensive to fix.
Prices range from $3,900 for project cars to $48,500 for top-spec examples.
302 Maserati Biturbo & 222 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 96 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Run a business in this market?
Get Hypercars OS
