The Series III Quattroporte was launched in 1977 but only went into production in 1979. Alejandro de Tomaso had purchased Maserati from Citroen and had a visions of making a rival for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The design was rehearsed by Giorgetto Giugiaro on his 1976 Medici I and II which had been built on Maserati platforms. The final car was by ItalDesign but had more in common with the Mexico and Longchamp than the Medicis. The car was launched with a 4136cc V8 engine in 1979, and a 4930cc V8 was later offered. From 1986 a limited edition 'Royale' was offered with extra luxuries, and there was also a longer wheelbase version made to order. Maserati Quattroportes sold 2155 before production ended in 1990.