The Symphony of Modena
There is a general consensus in the automotive world: Maserati makes the best-sounding engines in history. Not the fastest, not the most reliable, but the best sounding.
For years, Maserati acted as the "Grand Touring" arm of the Ferrari empire. This meant you got a Ferrari-built V8 (the F136 engine), but placed in a comfortable, stunningly beautiful sedan or coupe. When you uncork a GranTurismo MC Stradale in a tunnel, it doesn't sound like a car; it sounds like a ripping canvas mixed with thunder.
The GranTurismo: A Modern Classic
The GranTurismo (2007â2019) is the brand's masterpiece. Designed by Pininfarina, it is timeless. It manages to look aggressive yet elegant. Because they made them for so long, prices have dropped significantly.
For roughly $30,000â$40,000, you can buy a used GranTurismo that looks like it costs $150,000 and sounds like a Formula 1 car. It is the ultimate "baller on a budget" vehicle in the US.
The "Chrysler Parts Bin" Controversy
Maserati has a complicated relationship with its corporate cousins. Under the ownership of Stellantis (formerly FCA), newer models like the Ghibli and Levante share architecture with American cars.
Critics love to point out that the window switches, headlight knobs, and infotainment screens in a $80,000 Maserati Ghibli are the exact same ones found in a Dodge Dart or Jeep Cherokee. While the engines are Italian, the touchpoints often feel decidedly American rental car. This has hurt the brand's prestige among snobs, but the driving dynamics remain sharp.
The Depreciation King
Maserati holds a painful title: The King of Depreciation.
If you buy a new Maserati Quattroporte, you can expect to lose nearly 50% of its value in the first three years. This is a disaster for the first owner, but a miracle for the second owner. You can pick up luxury sedans with Ferrari DNA for the price of a Honda Accord. Just be ready for the maintenance bills.
The Comeback: MC20
Maserati recently proved they can still stand on their own. The MC20 is a mid-engine supercar built entirely by Maserati (no Ferrari engine this time). It uses the new "Nettuno" V6 engine with F1-derived pre-chamber ignition. It is beautiful, fast, and proves the Trident still has sharp points.
Buying Advice: The Variators
If you are tempted by a cheap used Maserati (specifically the 4.2L models from the early 2000s like the Coupe/Spyder/early Quattroporte):
- Cam Variators: The variable valve timing units can fail, leading to catastrophic engine noise (the "death rattle"). It is an expensive fix.
- The "F1" Clutch: The DuoSelect automated manual transmission eats clutches rapidly. Reversing up a hill can destroy the clutch in seconds. Look for the later "ZF" automatic models (Automca) for a smoother life.
Owning a Maserati is a toxic relationship. It will take all your money and break your heart, but when you hear that V8 sing at 7,000 RPM, you will forgive it for everything.