From the collaboration between Maserati and Citroën, started in 1968, the Merak was also born, a coupe produced since 1972 on which numerous Citroën -derived components are found. This would have perhaps made the purists be hyper critical, yet the Merak was a true Maserati. Produced in two engine variants, the Merak was very good value for money. About 1800 units were produced until 1983.