Information request - New Purchase 3200 GT - White

ssoup

New Member
Messages
4
Hi all,

I've been toying with the idea of a move from older Porsches (987/996) to Maserati. I've found what appears to be a well looked after high mileage car with a few niggles to be sorted, but that's part of the fun. I have some questions and wondered if someone had any history on a car I've found. I've dropped a link to the ad below as I'm interested if it's been previously owned / recognised by anyone on here? It was originally grey and was resprayed white sometime around 2010-2012, I presume after some damage to the passenger side wing.

Link to Ad

After a search I still have some questions I'm hoping to get some help with
  1. The aircon isn't working - it just blows hot air. What's the worst case scenario here if it needs compressor / clutch and labour?
  2. The current owner has revamped the interior and it looks pretty good. However, the two centre vent casings are completely loose and just pull out. Is this an easy fix?
  3. The check engine light is on. Current owner said it's been looked at by Mike @ The Shed and it's a lambda sensor on the blink and can be ignored until the next minor service (due in about 300 miles). Am I right in thinking this is around 600 to do them both?
Any answers much appreciated.
 

dickygrace

www.richardgracecars.co.uk
Messages
7,339
The best £250 you’ll ever spend would be on a pre-purchase inspection from a proper Maserati specialist. Then there’ll be no guess work or nasty surprises. It’s a very brave man that buys a 3200 without one.
 

RichTaps

Member
Messages
199
As above.

I believe white was never an official option..... my personal opinion, but non standard colours often look a bit naff.
 

ssoup

New Member
Messages
4
The best £250 you’ll ever spend would be on a pre-purchase inspection from a proper Maserati specialist. Then there’ll be no guess work or nasty surprises. It’s a very brave man that buys a 3200 without one.
That's my next question for the owner later today :)
 

Nayf

Member
Messages
2,750
After further investigation and firsthand knowledge of this car, I won't be booking an inspection for it. My search continues
There’s a good one at Marshall Maserati Peterborough, owner by Safrane who posts on here. Worth rather a bit more, though.
 

CatmanV2

Member
Messages
48,776
Both of these will undoubtedly be amongst the best on the market. I'd really not look any further, myself

C
 

safrane

Member
Messages
16,853
Never owned a 3200...I live with a Consultant Psychiatrist and would find myself sectioned rather sharpish if I came home with one.

The 3200 at Marshall was never owned by me; I just posted the link.
 

Ewan

Member
Messages
6,811
The 3200 is a fantastic car. But only if you buy the right one. Go via a known source (e.g. Richard Grace) or get a thorough inspection prior to purchase. A gamble could prove highly financially foolish.
My two 3200 GT's were spot on (back in their day), so don't let the dream die. Just choose wisely.
 

Nayf

Member
Messages
2,750
Never owned a 3200...I live with a Consultant Psychiatrist and would find myself sectioned rather sharpish if I came home with one.

The 3200 at Marshall was never owned by me; I just posted the link.
Ah, apologies.
 

dickygrace

www.richardgracecars.co.uk
Messages
7,339
I thought you kept clear of them so thought it would need to be special. Indeed it is. A very late model, (will be OBD11 which can be handy,) one of the last, manual, and a lovely colour. Lovely car.

I won’t buy them without a PPI inspection, but will always sell good ones. This has been maintained by Emblem for many years so is a really good one.
 

BuckRog64

Member
Messages
334
I joined this forum best part of 2 years ago when I started my search for a late manual 3200. In the end gave up waiting for a good car with continuous history to come along and got put off by end float worries and lack of parts availability (clutch, timing chain etc.). That said, I'd still buy one.

There is an excellent "buyers guide" thread on this forum. Both the cars mentioned above should be good examples but, if like me, you would prefer to pay private sale money this one looks like it may be worth a phone call

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classi...ly New&onesearchad=New&postcode=tn61fj&page=1
 

jasst

Member
Messages
2,316
The one that Dicky has for sale is gorgeous, if I had the money I'd be having that
 

gemini

Member
Messages
145
As above.

I believe white was never an official option..... my personal opinion, but non standard colours often look a bit naff.

I beg to differ.

My 3200GT assetto corsa is white birdcage (but it's a japanese import).
3200acfin_8_sur_8.jpg



bw %282 sur 4%29.jpg

About the lambda, it's an easy DIY job and they aren't that expensive : https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bosch-Lambda-Sensor-terminal-0258003819/dp/B0049PPN2W