The Project MA-01 is a 507bhp Maserati Shamal with *all* the retrofuturistic cues

You probably associate the word ‘restomod’ with ‘Porsche 911’ by now, but how’s this for a change? Dubbed the ‘Project MA-01’ and conceived by the recently-formed Modena Automobili, it is a truly gorgeous reincarnation of the much-loved Maserati Biturbo Shamal from the Nineties.

It still sits atop the original chassis, albeit one that’s been completely stripped, rebuilt and strengthened to deal with a new powertrain: the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 from a modern Ghibli S. As you probably guessed, that means a healthy power boost, now at a handy 507bhp, which cuts the 0-62mph down to 4.7s and bumps the top speed up to 177. Sheesh.

S'pose we better talk about the styling too, which is still properly boxy, marked by straight, sharp lines and wrinkle-free bodywork. There’s a thin carbon body kit sprouting from the front, side and rear, with redesigned LED light signatures at both ends, broader wheel arches and a larger track to accommodate the bigger wheels and brakes.

The curved carbon rear wing is new, but we appreciate the retention of the iconic thick black roof-line pillar and quad-exhaust (though it’s likely a new system). Some of the air inlets sculpted into the bodywork have been inflated too, perhaps to help with cooling or some palaver like that.

Modena Automobili says the MA-01 will be ready for launch next year, with a rumoured starting price of close to half a million quid for the proposed 33 units. Dare we ask where you stand on this one?