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Maserati Quattroporte III (AM330): Giugiaro design and Royale
Maserati Quattroporte III (Tipo AM330) — the luxurious sedan produced from 1979–1990 with a V8 engine, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. We review the engines, Royale version, and what to check when buying.
Quattroporte III in brief
The third generation, created under Alejandro de Tomaso's Maserati. After the Citroën era, the front-wheel drive of the Quattroporte II returns to rear-wheel drive and an enlarged V8 version. Design by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Pre-production car shown in November 1976, but series production cars hit the market only in 1979. A total of 2,155 cars were produced, including the Royale.
Royale and engine variants
Two V8s offered: 4.9-litre, 280hp, and the optional 4.1-litre, 255hp, which was discontinued in 1981. Interior features leather and wood, with climate control adapted from the Biturbo in 1984.
In December 1986, the Royale was introduced — an exceptionally luxurious version with a 300hp 4.9-litre V8, electrically adjustable seats, built-in tables in the rear doors, and a mini bar. 120 units planned, 53 produced.
Technical details
The body is steel, based on the extended Kyalami chassis. The front suspension features double transverse wishbones, while the rear has an independent layout similar to Jaguar's.
The engine is a Maserati V8 with four Weber carburetors. Transmission options include a 3-speed Chrysler Torqueflite automatic or a 5-speed ZF manual.
What to check when buying a Quattroporte III
The most important thing is the body condition: this is the last hand-built Italian car, with its body panels specially polished. Check for signs of corrosion and the quality of the painted details.
Pay attention to the V8 and carburetor maintenance history, check the interior leather and wood. Parts will need to be sourced from specialist Maserati clubs.
Trim levels
Quattroporte III trim names vary by market; below are the versions by engine and Royale.
4,1 l V8
1979–1981The less common smaller-displacement version, 255 hp.
- 4.1-litre V8, 255 hp
- Special order version
- Single-tone interior
4,9 l V8
1979–1990Base version, 280 hp.
- 4.9-litre V8, 280 hp
- Torqueflite or ZF 5-speed manual
- Leather and wood (briar)
Royale
1986–1990Top-of-the-range version, 300 AG, produced 53 units.
- 4.9-litre V8, 300 AG
- Electric adjustable seats
- Alloy wheels and mini bar
Version comparison
| 4,1 l V8 | 4,9 l V8 | Royale | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 255 AG | 280 AG | 300 AG |
| Who it's for | For the more exclusive variant | For the base variant | For collectors |
| Rarity | Large | Mid-range | Very large (53 units) |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
The 4.9-litre version is ideal for everyday classic use, while the Royale is a unique collector's choice.
Pros
- Giugiaro design and styling
- Powerful V8 with a classic sound
- Luxurious leather and wood trim
- Rare collector's car
Cons
- Expensive maintenance
- Parts can be hard to find
- Carburettor maintenance and fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
How many were made?
A total of 2,155 cars, including the Royale.
What sets the Royale apart?
The luxurious version with a 300 AG engine, electric seats, built-in tables in the rear doors and a mini bar; 53 units produced.
What type of transmission does it have?
A 3-speed Chrysler Torqueflite automatic or a 5-speed ZF manual.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
