To celebrate one hundred years since Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati opened their first workshop in Bologna on December 1, 1914, Maserati has released Centennial Editions of their performance flagships. This, the coupé version, is offered with a number of distinctive finishes and specifications with production restricted to this calendar year. Would-be owners have until the end of the year to join the celebrations.
The GranTurismo is the kind of car that Maserati excels at; front engined, rear-wheel drive grand tourers of towering performance and sensual design. For the MC Stradale models, Maserati Corse add some race-track knowhow, starting with the potent 4.7 litre V8 engine sitting below a lightweight carbon-fibre bonnet. The MC Stradale specification also offers the addictive sensation of a unique roar courtesy of the exhaust by-pass valves held open when in Race mode.
Centennial Editions offer the owner a choice of three exclusive triple-coat paint finishes, namely Rosso Magma, Blue Inchiostro and Grigio Pietra. These colours are carefully matched to four interior specifications of contrast stitching and contrast stripes in Poltrona Frau leather, while even the Trofeo design forged alloy wheels and callipers harmonise with the chosen finish. The same specification is also available with four additional finishes from the existing colour range. Ask the H.R. Owen sales team for the full specification matrix – there’s plenty of scope for individual choice within the many design recommendations.
The driving experience of the GranTurismo MC Stradale Centennial Edition is dominated by the potent naturally-aspirated 4.7 litre engine, which develops 460 CV and makes a magnificent snarl at high revs, especially with the Race mode exhaust valves open. Carbon Ceramic rotor brakes are well up to the task of reining in the Maserati’s performance, while the lower, stiffer suspension and single-rate springs strike a good balance between track capability and the suppleness that today’s road surfaces demand.
The carbon-fibre bonnet produces additional downforce at the front improving steering feel and control at high speed, while the six-speed MC-Race transmission offers a choice of Sport, Auto and Race modes. We think the Maserati brothers would be impressed.