What year did Chrysler buy out Maserati?
Chrysler bought Maserati in 1986.
The acquisition occurred during the height of Chrysler's restructuring under Lee Iacocca, as the company sought to enhance engineering capability and add a touch of European prestige to its lineup. Maserati, owned by entrepreneur Alejandro de Tomaso, faced financial difficulties, making the sale a pivotal moment for both brands.
How the deal unfolded
With Maserati's advanced engine and chassis expertise, Chrysler embarked on a collaborative program that would yield the Chrysler TC by Maserati, a luxury coupe designed to blend Italian flair with American engineering. The car debuted in 1989 and was produced through 1991.
Long-term implications
The partnership helped cement Chrysler's image as a maker of high-end, technology-forward vehicles, but it was limited in scope and duration. Maserati's corporate status changed in the following years, with the brand eventually becoming part of Fiat's holdings and later part of Stellantis after the 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. The Maserati name continues as a standalone luxury marque under the modern corporate umbrella.
Summary
Chrysler's buyout of Maserati in 1986 was a notable strategic maneuver that produced the Chrysler TC by Maserati and influenced both brands for years to come, even as ownership and corporate structures evolved in the decades that followed.
