🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Maserati

Model:

Biturbo

Model Variants:

222, 425, Spyder, Racing, E, Si, V6, V8

Generation Codes:

AM331, AM332, AM337

Chassis Codes:

AM331, AM332, AM337

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Sports Coupe/Sedan/Convertible

Competitors:

BMW 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz SEC/SL, Porsche 944, Jaguar XJ-S

Distinguishing Features:

Twin-turbocharged V6/V8 engines, luxurious Italian styling, advanced (for its time) technology, rear-wheel drive.

Audience:

Maserati Biturbo owners and independent mechanics seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Cost Savings:

Enables significant cost savings on dealership service and repair charges.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' covering A-Z)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (Implied by product description)

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system (carburetor/injection variants), timing systems, turbocharger systems

Engine Management:

Ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU) functions, sensor diagnostics, emission control systems

Transmission:

Manual transmission repair and overhaul, automatic transmission repair and overhaul (where applicable), clutch system, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials)

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bars), rear suspension (independent rear suspension, trailing arms, shock absorbers), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion)

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS system (where equipped)

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relays, power windows, central locking, instrument panel and gauges, horn

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis lubrication

Climate Control:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heating system, ventilation

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication schedules, tune-up procedures

Repair:

Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major and minor assemblies, troubleshooting and diagnosis of common faults

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical troubleshooting flowcharts

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, valve adjustments, ignition timing settings, fluid capacities and types

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All PC & MAC Computers, Tablets, Mobile Phones (Requires Adobe Reader)

Printability:

Printable (Individual pages, chapters, or entire document)

Binding:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

Digital (No physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Twin-Turbocharged V6 (various displacements) and V8

Engine Displacements:

2.0L, 2.5L, 2.8L, 3.0L, 3.2L, 4.9L (V8)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 180-330 hp (depending on engine and market)

Torque Range:

Approx. 240-460 Nm (depending on engine and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (early models/variants) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Twin Carburetor or Twin Injection per bank

Turbocharger System:

Dual IHI turbochargers with intercoolers (typical)

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual gearbox

Automatic Transmission:

3-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP22) or 4-speed automatic (later models/variants)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch (manual)

Drive Type:

Rear-wheel drive

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Mm:

Approx. 2550 mm (varies slightly by model)

Length Mm:

Approx. 4270-4650 mm (varies by model)

Width Mm:

Approx. 1750-1780 mm

Height Mm:

Approx. 1300-1350 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1300-1500 kg (varies by model and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available for this era, typical of European luxury cars of the period.

ABS:

Available on later models and higher trims (Bosch ABS)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts

Airbags:

Driver airbag typically standard on later models (1990s onward), passenger airbag optional or standard on top trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed radio/cassette players (often Blaupunkt or similar), with optional CD players in later models.

Dashboard:

Analog gauges, often with wood trim or leather accents. Includes boost pressure gauges.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many models.

Phone Integration:

Not applicable for the era; aftermarket solutions would be required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for V6 engines; typically every 40,000-60,000 km. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Commonly 10W-40 or 20W-50, depending on climate and specific engine. API SG or higher recommended.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Dexron III or equivalent for automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 3HP22).

Electrical System:

Known for temperamental electrical systems, corroded connections, and intermittent faults. Wires in engine bay can degrade.

Turbo System:

Turbocharger oil feed lines and seals can fail. Intercooler plumbing can develop leaks. Carburetor/injection systems require precise tuning.

Suspension Steering:

Wear in suspension bushings, ball joints, and steering components can lead to imprecise handling.

Body Corrosion:

Susceptible to rust in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and around windows.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Maserati has a long history of producing luxury sports cars and grand tourers, founded in 1914.

Biturbo Development:

Launched in 1981, the Biturbo series was Maserati's return to mass production sports cars, intended to be more accessible than its predecessors. It evolved through numerous variants with different engine sizes, body styles, and trim levels.

Production Period:

1981-1994

Ownership Changes:

The brand was acquired by De Tomaso Automobili in 1975, which produced the Biturbo. Later, Fiat Auto took a controlling stake.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Notes:

While not a recipient of specific 'awards' in the modern sense, the Biturbo was lauded for its performance and style, representing Maserati's resurgence in the sports car market. It gained a cult following for its performance per dollar at the time.