What is it?
2008 Maserati GranTurismo S
What's special about it?
Like the various iterations of the Quattroporte sedan, the Maserati GranTurismo S isn't so much a new model as it is a slight variation of the current coupe. In this case, the additions of a larger V8 and a six-speed automated manual-transmission gearbox are the two main upgrades used to justify the "S" designation.
With 440 horsepower, the new 4.7-liter V8 in the GranTurismo S delivers a healthy 35-hp boost over the 4.2-liter V8 in the standard model. Maserati hasn't yet released any details about the new engine, but it's essentially the same Ferrari-designed and -built V8 used in the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione coupe. The transmission is essentially the same paddle-shifted transaxle used in the Quattroporte sedan until Maserati wised up and replaced it with a real automatic.
There are a few other upgrades as well. The Brembo-designed brake system utilizes new six-piston calipers along with unique rotors made from iron and aluminum. The standard wheels measure 20 inches in diameter and come wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires sized 245/35R20 up front and 285/35R20 in back. The only other cosmetic enhancements are subtle rocker sill extensions, a small trunk-lid spoiler and dual chrome exhaust tips in place of the quad pipes on the standard model.
What's Edmunds' take?
Adding more power to one of the most beautiful coupes on the road certainly doesn't hurt. A true manual would be nice, too, but in a car like this we could live without it. — Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor
2008 Maserati GranTurismo S
What's special about it?
Like the various iterations of the Quattroporte sedan, the Maserati GranTurismo S isn't so much a new model as it is a slight variation of the current coupe. In this case, the additions of a larger V8 and a six-speed automated manual-transmission gearbox are the two main upgrades used to justify the "S" designation.
With 440 horsepower, the new 4.7-liter V8 in the GranTurismo S delivers a healthy 35-hp boost over the 4.2-liter V8 in the standard model. Maserati hasn't yet released any details about the new engine, but it's essentially the same Ferrari-designed and -built V8 used in the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione coupe. The transmission is essentially the same paddle-shifted transaxle used in the Quattroporte sedan until Maserati wised up and replaced it with a real automatic.
There are a few other upgrades as well. The Brembo-designed brake system utilizes new six-piston calipers along with unique rotors made from iron and aluminum. The standard wheels measure 20 inches in diameter and come wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires sized 245/35R20 up front and 285/35R20 in back. The only other cosmetic enhancements are subtle rocker sill extensions, a small trunk-lid spoiler and dual chrome exhaust tips in place of the quad pipes on the standard model.
What's Edmunds' take?
Adding more power to one of the most beautiful coupes on the road certainly doesn't hurt. A true manual would be nice, too, but in a car like this we could live without it. — Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor
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