Maserati at the Paris motor show 2008

By Ben Barry

Motor Shows

03 October 2008 09:17

Visitors to the Maserati stand at Paris were treated to Modena’s familiar but still nonetheless alluring two-car range with a trio of Quattroportes and a pair of Granturismos, the newest versions being the Granturismo S and the Quattroporte S.

The Granturismo S makes this four-seat GT an altogether more hardcore proposition. A 4.7-litre V8 replaces the standard car’s 4.2; the ZF torque converter auto makes way for a six-speed automated manual shared with the Ferrari Scuderia; plus there’s a subtle aero kit, bigger brakes along with interior embellishments.

The Quattroporte S heralded a minor facelift for the elegant saloon when we drove it earlier this year, but it also introduced the same 4.7 V8 as the Granturismo S – though this time mated to the ZF shifter.

That’s your lot. But you will feel drawn to the merchandise. There, displayed in glass cases, you’ll find brief cases, sweaters, ties and keyrings. A solid aluminium Granturismo model sells for 840 Euro, a baseball hat’s a snip at 25 Euro. Sounds tacky, but Maserati somehow manages this side of its business far more tastefully than Ferrari.

A news-free zone, but that grey pullover did look good.

Click here for up to the minute Paris motor show 2008 live reports

Click here for the previews and review: Guide to all cars

By Ben Barry