Review

Review: Maserati 228 (1989-92)

2.5 stars

  • Responsive 2.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engines
  • Impressive dynamics
  • Dated styling
  • High maintenance costs

Overview

Released in Australia in March 1989, the Maserati 228 was a mid-size, luxury coupe. Manufactured in Modena, Italy, and styled by Pierangelo Andreani, the Maserati 228 was powered by a 2.8-litre V6 petrol engine with two water-cooled IHI turbochargers, a single overhead cam, three valves per cylinder and Weber electronic injection and ignition. The 228 was fitted with a five-speed ZF manual transmission, though a four-speed automatic transmission could also be ordered.

Although based on Maserati’s Biturbo range, the 228 was differentiated by its larger 2.8-litre engine, more luxurious interior and longer wheelbase. As such, the 228 was 4460 mm long, 1865 mm wide, 1330 mm tall and had a 2600 mm long wheelbase (compared to 2514 mm for the Biturbo).

The 228’s front suspension consisted of MacPherson struts with an anti-roll bar and hydraulic shock absorbers with coil springs; at the rear, the 228 had semi-trailing arms mounted with Bilstein gas shock absorbers and coil springs.

Maserati 228 specifications
  Engine Trans. Peak power Peak torque
228 2.8-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 5sp man.,
4sp auto
168 kW at 5500 rpm 371 Nm at 3500 rpm

Safety equipment

The 228 was not fitted with any safety equipment such as ABS or airbags.

Features

Standard features for the Maserati 228 included 15-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 VR 15 MXV tyres, a radio and cassette player, climate control air conditioning, air conditioning, leather upholstery, central locking and power windows.

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