1984 Maserati Biturbo Spyder Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder has a wheelbase of around 2,400 mm (94.5 inches). This relatively short wheelbase contributes to its nimble and agile handling characteristics, especially important for a sporty cabriolet. Compared to other Maserati models of the era, such as the Maserati Biturbo coupé which shares a similar platform, the Spyder’s wheelbase is generally the same or very close. The compact wheelbase helps deliver a nimble and responsive driving experience, a trait appreciated by enthusiasts who favored sporty Italian convertibles during the mid-1980s to early 1990s.

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder weighs approximately 1,435 kg (3,163 lbs) curb weight. This weight is relatively modest for a luxury sports convertible of its time and enables the car to deliver responsive acceleration and handling dynamics. The weight distribution, combined with the compact dimensions, allows the Spyder to maintain a sporty feel on twisty roads. However, given its twin-turbocharged engine and somewhat aged technology by today’s standards, the weight can offer a more planted and stable ride, though it does not provide the same lightness and agility associated with more modern or purpose-built sports cars.

Yes, the Maserati Biturbo Spyder fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With its length of approximately 4,110 mm (161.8 inches) and width of about 1,680 mm (66.1 inches), it generally suits standard garage dimensions which often accommodate cars up to 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) in length and 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) in width. Its relatively low height of 1,280 mm (50.4 inches) also ensures sufficient vertical clearance within typical garage spaces. Owners should, however, account for additional space needed to open doors and for comfortable entry and exit.

As a two-door two-seater cabriolet, the Maserati Biturbo Spyder offers limited passenger space focused on driver and front passenger comfort. The cabin prioritizes sportiness and luxury over spaciousness, with snug seating typical of sporty convertibles from the 1980s. Rear seating is either absent or very limited, depending on model specifics, emphasizing its nature as a two-seater. Cargo capacity is modest, with the trunk space designed to accommodate small luggage or daily essentials rather than large items, due to the space taken by the convertible mechanism and compact overall size.

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 80 liters (about 21.1 US gallons). This relatively large tank size enables decent driving range given the car’s moderate fuel consumption for a high-performance 1980s twin-turbocharged machine. Considering that the Biturbo's fuel economy varies but typically falls in the range of about 11-14 liters per 100 km (around 17 to 21 miles per gallon), the Spyder can cover roughly 570 to 730 kilometers (approximately 350 to 450 miles) on a full tank under mixed driving conditions. This makes it suitable for both spirited drives and longer trips without overly frequent refueling stops.

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder is a cabriolet variant that shares a common platform with the original Biturbo coupé but differs in dimensions and style. Dimensionally, the Spyder is very close to the coupé, with a similar overall length of about 4,110 mm (161.8 inches) versus the coupé’s slightly smaller length typically around 4,060 mm (159.8 inches). The Spyder's width and height are also very close, although the convertible design leads to minor differences in structural reinforcements and weight distribution, generally increasing the Spyder’s weight by approximately 100-150 kg. Performance-wise, both cars share the same twin-turbocharged V6 engines, offering similar power outputs, but the coupé may feel more rigid due to its fixed roof. The Spyder excels in open-air driving experience but can be slightly less stiff dynamically.

Compared to other European sports convertibles from the mid-1980s to early 1990s—such as the Porsche 944 Cabriolet, BMW Z1, or Alfa Romeo Spider—the Maserati Biturbo Spyder occupies a similar compact footprint. Its length of roughly 4,110 mm (161.8 inches) and width of 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) position it in the same sporty coupe/cabriolet class, but it stands out with Italian design flair and twin-turbocharged performance. While some rivals might offer slightly lighter weight or more modern handling, the Biturbo Spyder blends Italian luxury, exclusivity, and unique twin-turbo V6 engine technology. Its styling is more aggressive and angular than many contemporaries, reflecting Maserati’s premium positioning and Italian design language of the period.

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder features distinctive 1980s Italian styling characterized by sharp lines, an angular front fascia with quad headlamps, and a sporty yet elegant convertible roofline. Exterior features often include alloy wheels with distinctive Maserati trident badges and subtle but sporty aerodynamic details. Inside, the interior typically boasts leather sport seats, wood trim accents on the dashboard and steering wheel, and a driver-focused instrument cluster. The cabin combines luxury with a somewhat retro 1980s ambiance, emphasizing a blend of Italian craftsmanship and performance-oriented ergonomics, making the Spyder an appealing choice for enthusiasts of classic Italian sports cars.

The Maserati Biturbo Spyder, produced during the mid-1980s to early 1990s, is notable for its twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which was quite advanced for its time. However, owners and enthusiasts often report certain maintenance challenges typical of Italian cars from that era. These can include the complexity of its forced induction system, which requires regular and careful upkeep to maintain peak performance and avoid issues like turbo lag or overheating. Electrical systems, especially early turbo variants, can be temperamental, and parts availability may also be limited compared to more mainstream sports cars. Proper specialist maintenance and careful attention to oil changes, cooling systems, and turbo servicing are essential to keep the Spyder running reliably.