Header: Courtesy of Modena Automobili
Modena Automobili’s MA-01 project has just finished reinterpreting the historical Maserati Biturbo Shamal, bringing it to our modern times by integrating current technology and engineering while still maintaining the key aspects that fans love.
Historical overview: Maserati Biturbo and Shamal
Maserati introduced the Biturbo in 1982 as a compact luxury car with a twin-turbocharged engine, and it quickly gained recognition for its innovative drivetrain and functional design. In 1989, Maserati launched the Shamal, an evolution of the Biturbo, which featured a 3.2-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and a design by Marcello Gandini. Maserati produced 369 units, making the model a dream for car enthusiasts everywhere.
Technical upgrades in the MA-01
The MA-01 replaces the original V8 engine with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine developed by Maserati under Ferrari’s supervision. The engine delivers 500 hp and 550 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h. An 8-speed ZF automatic transmission replaces the original manual gearbox for improved efficiency and ease of use.
Suspension and handling have been re-engineered to meet modern driving requirements, and the car is equipped with a Brembo braking system and Pirelli PZero tires, which enhance braking performance and road grip.
Exterior modifications
The exterior of the MA-01 maintains the core proportions of the original Shamal while incorporating new materials and functional improvements. Furthermore, the body is made of steel and uses extensive carbon fibre for weight reduction.
- The front features a lowered grille, LED headlights integrated into a carbon structure, and larger air intakes to improve engine and brake cooling.
- The redesigned hood includes air intake grilles and a central bulge to accommodate the new powertrain.
- The rear integrates a squared-off spoiler and a functional diffuser to improve aerodynamics, plus the LED taillights are connected by a black band that carries the Shamal logo.
Side skirts and a roof-mounted spoiler further improve the car’s aerodynamic performance, and the overall width has been increased to 187 cm, with symmetrical front wheel arches and asymmetrical rear wheel arches referencing the original Gandini design.
Interior Features
The interior retains the layout of the original Shamal with some updated components and modern systems. For example, the Recaro Classic LX seats replaced the original ones while the seating configuration was maintained.
- The digital dashboard follows the original design language while incorporating a contemporary infotainment system and automatic climate control.
- Maserati’s oval clock is now detachable and wearable as a portable timepiece.
- The pedals, dashboard, and shift knob reference the original design, plus the car offers a choice of audio systems, including Bose, JBL, and Alpine options.
The technical committee
The MA-01 was developed with input from a technical committee comprised of experienced automotive engineering and design professionals.
- Roberto Corradi, former Head of Product Development at Maserati and Ferrari.
- Gianluca Di Oto, former head of the Maserati MC20 project with extensive experience in high-performance vehicles.
- Giacomo Danisi, CEO of Danisi Engineering, a specialist in automotive prototyping and engineering.
- Franco Bonavigo is the CEO of BF Project, which focuses on rapid prototyping and engineering services for the automotive sector.
Production and customization
Production of the MA-01 Maserati Biturbo Shamal is limited to 33 units, plus each vehicle is hand-assembled in Modena and later homologated by TÜV Germany. Buyers can fully customize the color and interior fabric without additional cost, and the vehicle’s base price is 585,000 euros (excluding taxes). Modena Automobili provides a donor car search and selection service, which is included in the base price.
