A new company called Modena Automobili has revealed the first details and renderings of a new Maserati Biturbo-based, Shamal-inspired restomod called Project MA-01.
The original Shamal was the ultimate evolution of the Biturbo platform, featuring a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and bodywork restyled by Marcello Gandini. With just 369 built it remains one of the rarest too, so thankfully Project MA-01 doesn’t require the sacrifice of any originals, instead based on the standard Biturbo model of which many ‘unloved’ examples can be sourced.
Modena Automobili is a relatively young company, born in Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’, set up in 2022 with the goal of revitalising 1970s and ’80s legends – involving managers, entrepreneurs, and technicians with extensive experience working with car companies within the region.
The prototype MA-01 Biturbo Shamal restomod has been based on a 1983 Maserati Biturbo coupe, and the first major change comes under the bonnet. In place of the original engine is a 3.0-litre Twin Turbo V6, sourced from the modern Ghibli S. With power at around 500bhp, sent through a modern ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, performance is quoted at 0-62mph in 5.0sec and a top speed of 180mph. For reference, the original Shamal managed 168mph.
Suspension is comprehensively updated to ensure it can make the most of the power, with MacPherson struts front and trailing arms at the rear. The braking system is also fully updated, with larger discs and Brembo calipers.
One of the Shamal (and Biturbo’s) biggest selling points was the gorgeous, luxurious leather-clad interior, and it’s something Modena Automobili have been keen to embrace. Combining comfort and nostalgia, Recaro seats boast customisable upholstery, while a digital instrument cluster is contrasted by an oval analog clock.
The reimagined design blends original Shamal aesthetics with a contemporary twist. The bodywork will be made from carbon fibre for weight reduction, a lowered grille, LED headlights and larger air intakes for optimal aerodynamics. Flared wheelarches, a muscular rear and Gandini-inspired asymmetric cuts add a unique but identifiable flair, while a squared-off spoiler and redesigned taillights bring continuity with the Shamal.
The company claims that it will build 33 units, with each car taking between eight and ten months to complete, depending on the owner’s specifications. Priced at €585,000 the first deliveries scheduled for early 2025.
