The second-generation Quattroporte was developed during an obscure period in Maserati’s history, when the marque was under the ownership of Citroën. Technically identical to the Citroën SM, the Quattroporte II featured front-wheel drive and hydro-pneumatic suspension. Performance was not on par with the first-generation Quattroporte, and the car was not well received by Maserati purists. Nevertheless, the Quattroporte II was very comfortable, well equipped and offered an excellent ride. Its Bertone-designed body was modern and the build quality was very good. Unfortunately, the early end of the agreement with Citroën in 1975 hampered the launch of the Quattroporte II. Only 12 units were produced in its three years of production and they were all sold to customers in the Middle East.