2011 New Maserati Grand Turismno S

The Maserati GranTurismo S, the sportiest version of Maserati’s coupé, was developed for those looking for a distinctive performance car. The new and powerful 4.7 litre V8 engine is capable of generating 323 kw (440bhp), bestowing the GranTurismo S with a distinctive personality, aggression and power; all the necessary traits to deliver a refined drive in complete safety.

The transaxle set up employed in the design of the engine and gearbox is a stunning example of Maserati technology. The suspension makes the most of this system thanks to new fixed-rate dampers that now offer 10% more damping. The compression and extension ratios have also been tweaked and the rear torsion bar stiffened. The brakes, developed in collaboration with Brembo, always give a prompt response thanks to their dual cast iron and aluminium discs.

The sporty feel of the GranTurismo S is accentuated by Pininfarina’s modern lines. The detailing on the car renders it unmistakable. Features include red prongs on the Trident, the Saetta logo mirror and the standard colour of the brake callipers, features that distinguish competition Maseratis. Style, elegance and safety, combined with extraordinary performance, makes driving the Maserati GranTurismo S a thrilling experience that can be enjoyed every day.

GranTurismo S is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 in place of the unit regular GT's 4.2-liter. Output of 433 horsepower at 7000 rpm with a torque rating of 360 lb-ft at 4750 rpm, repair 28, and 21 respectively. In S, an MC-Shift replace sophisticated dual-clutch six-speed ZF automatic transmission. The changes at the highest speed for the S 183 mph, up from 177 mph, and reached 62 mph from stop nearly three-tenths of seconds faster, at 4.93. Because the transaxle configuration, weight distribution over the rear S-bias, at 53 percent, compared with 51 percent of the ordinary car was rear bias.

New high power Brembo brakes increase stopping distance and offers a high resistance to fade. Maserati claims the car can stop from 62 mph in less than 115 meters. This system has a front brake discs made with dual-cast technology, so that pairs up iron and aluminum for a better weight, heat transfer properties, and extorted by a mono-block calipers aluminum 6-piston.

Compared with the standard GranTurismo, S rides on unique 20-inch wheels, up from 19-inch wheels. Other exterior visual differences between the two sides of skirts and unique integrated spoiler. The dimensions of the GranTurismo and S are nearly identical, although S is 2.7 inches wider.

In addition to the above changes, the S features of a conventional suspension set-up, aggressively tuned to reduce roll by 10 percent compared with the GranTurismo pedestrians. Electronically-adjustable Skyhook suspension was found in a weaker car is an option. Interior Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara for luxury increased, and include more aggressive seat supported.

Engine

The Maserati GranTurismo S is powered by an eight cylinder, 4,691 cc V90° engine that develops 440 bhp at 7,000 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 490 Nm at 4,750 rpm. The timing is actioned by two overhead camshafts per bank and four valves per cylinder controlled by hydraulic tappets. The overhead camshafts on the aspirated side are controlled by a low pressure, continual phase variator with an actuation time of less than 0.15 seconds.

The 4.7 litre V8’s maximum power is achieved at 7,500 rpm but can reach 7,600 rpm in dynamic conditions with on-the-limit gear changes. The power unit is one of Maserati’s new breed of wet sump engines.

Exhaust

The engines deep throaty sound can be fully appreciated thanks to the sports exhaust. However, the engine noise never interferes with the on-board comfort you would expect from a true grand tourer.

The set up features two steel exhaust pipes, one for each cylinder bank, that are compensated by a central silencer. Two pneumatic valves are set close to the rear silencers and are controlled electronically by the engine’s central computer. They can be managed by the driver by pushing the ‘Sport’ button on the central console. The new exhaust system is instantly recognisable thanks to its distinctive tailpipes where the two outlets come together in an eye-catching single chrome oval.

Gearbox

From a technical point of view, the electro-actuated gearbox fitted to the Maserati GranTurismo S has a six-speed (plus reverse), twin disc clutch, with a triple cone synchroniser on the first and second gears and a double cone on the other gears.

The twin disc clutch derives from the world of competition and is particularly suitable for sports cars: the reduced size of the clutch group (215 mm), and the small diameter of the flywheel (240 mm), keeps the unit’s overall weight down. This notably reduces the engine’s inertia compared to a single disc set up. The system also allows top end revs to be reached more easily, resulting in a quicker response from the gears, faster shifts and improved gear dynamics.

The electro-actuated transmission can be used in two ways: manual and automatic. Manual mode is for those who prefer a sportier, more involving driving experience with gear changes only made if the driver requests them in order to fully unlock the car’s performance. Automatic mode is designed for when the driver wants a relaxing drive: the system decides not only when to change gear but at what revs.

MC-Shift

The MC-Shift gearbox is the biggest innovation on the electro-actuated system fitted to the Maserati GranTurismo S. MC-Shift is a management and components software that allows super fast gear change times.

On the Maserati GranTurismo S, the gear changes partially overlap and engaging and disengaging the gear happens before the clutch fully opens and shuts. This means that gear changes, taken as the time from when the foot comes off the accelerator, drops to 100ms, while the gear shift itself takes 40ms.

The fast MC-Shift is only available when changing up and in Manual Sport mode when the gearbox computer recognises that the parameters relative to the temperature of the engine and gearbox have been reached. The fast changes can be made above 5,500 revs and with the accelerator pedal at 80% opening. Once these parameters have been reached, the system enables fast changes and advises the driver of this via the MC-S light on the instrument panel.

Transaxle set up

The Maserati GranTurismo S is equipped with a transaxle system, part of Maserati’s proud technical tradition and that is found on many high performance sports cars. The transaxle set-up further improves the weight distribution of the GranTurismo by shifting the gearbox to the rear in a single block with the differential. The mid-mounted engine is firmly connected to the electro-actuated gearbox, set in the rear, via a rigid tube that houses the drive shaft. These solutions give the Maserati GranTurismo S a front-rear weight distribution of 47%-53%, unique in its segment.

Suspension

The Maserati GranTurismo S comes with fixed-setting suspension that is now fitted with new springs and dampers to offer 10% more damping. The compression and extension ratios have also been tweaked and adapted to the car’s specific characteristics and the rear torsion bar has been reinforced.

The Skyhook system

As an alternative to fixed rate dampers, the electronically controlled Skyhook suspension is available as an option. This system employs dampers with an aluminium body that continually adjust the damping.

The Skyhook system acts by using acceleration sensors that detect movement on all four wheels and the body. A control unit processes the data it receives from the sensors, analyses the driving style and road surface and instantly adjusts the dampers accordingly via their proportional valves. However, as the Skyhook and transmission data from the sensors is fed to the same point, Maserati engineers have integrated the two systems. As such, the GranTurismo S is able to fine tune the suspension settings so that the driver feels even less movement through the chassis during gear changes.

Opting for the ‘Sport’ setting results in a stiffer ride, less roll, more contained load transfer, greater agility and stability as well as allowing startling performance figures. The dedicated on board computer reduces gear shifts by 40% and Skyhook switches from controlling the ride to focusing on the set up (body control), making the GranTurismo easier to handle and giving it more grip. Together, the two systems combine to offer more precise and involving gear changes.

Maserati Grand Turismo S, Powerful And Aggressive

A year after the unveiling of the GranTurismo, Maserati will be back at the Geneva International Motorshow with yet another world premiere, the GranTurismo S. The ultimate expression of the Trident coupé's sportiness shifts the emphasis onto performance and driving enjoyment.

Two main novelties are at the heart of the new Maserati: the 440 HP V8 4.7 engine and the electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC-Shift arranged in the Transaxle layout typical of high-performance sports cars that represents the technological DNA of all Maseratis.

The GranTurismo S makes use of the high-performance brake system developed in collaboration with Brembo and introduced for the first time in the automotive field on the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S. The system features front brake discs made with dual-cast technology - a dual casting of cast iron and aluminum, paired with aluminum mono-bloc 6-piston brake calipers, ensuring optimized braking performance.

On the exterior the Maserati GranTurismo S is characterised by a number of aesthetic modifications that, although discrete, are highly effective and make the car body appear sportier without abandoning the sleekness of the lines masterfully designed by Pininfarina.

Seat features finished in Alcantara central zone and a new horizontal pipe. Along with Poltrona Frau ® leather-Alcantara combination, Alcantara can be substituted for the skin * peccary. Peccary comes in three natural shades and is a natural skin embossed different from that normally used in vehicle seats. Its natural look and no additional chemical treatment to distinguish from other skin.

GranTurismo S cocoon the driver and gave him the sensation of having everything under control. From the driver's seat you can experience a shift, gear elegant chrome-edged paddle behind the wheel. Center console has a home switch panel to select first gear and vice versa through the gearbox electro-pressed.

Maserati GranTurismo S personalization that results in a more contemporary look. You can even choose AluTex to the dashboard, door panels and rear side panels. AluTex is a material created by inserting fine aluminum powder on the surface of fiberglass, this produces an unusual brilliance and three-dimensional effect.

2009 Maserati GranTurismo style and luxury

Specifications

* Engine: 4.7 L (4,691 cc) (286 cu in) 90° V8
* Power: 440 PS (324 kW; 434 hp) at 7,000 rpm
* Torque: 490 N·m (360 lb·ft) at 4,750 rpm
* Top speed: 295 km/h (183 mph)[4]
* 0- 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration: 4.9 seconds
* 1/4 mi acceleration: 12.97 seconds
* 1 mi acceleration: 23.23 seconds

2009 Maserati GranTurismo

2009 Maserati GranTurismo

2009 Maserati GranTurismo

2009 Maserati GranTurismo

2009 Maserati GranTurismo

2009 Novitec Tridente Maserati GranTurismo S

NOVITEC TRIDENTE now also refines the Maserati GranTurismo S: The newly developed supercharged engine represents a jump in rated power output of the V8 engine from standard 440 hp to 600 hp / 442 kW. With it, the 2+2-seater sprints to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 315 km/h. A strikingly styled aerodynamic-enhancement package and custom-tailored 20- and 21-inch wheels lend the coupe an even more exclusive appearance. A sporty yet comfortable sport suspension provides more agile handling.

Increasing power output by using compressor technology has been the trademark of NOVITEC since its inception in 1989. The new NOVITEC TRIDENTE supercharged engine for the Maserati GranTurismo S continues this tradition.

The combustion air of the 4.7-liter eight-cylinder four-valve engine is supercharged by a mechanical cogged-belt-driven charger with a maximum boost pressure of 0.37 bars. The extensive NOVITEC TRIDENTE SPORT compressor conversion further comprises a water-to-air intercooler, a modified intake system and larger injectors. New mapping for the engine electronics ensures maximum power yield, perfect suitability for daily use and compliance with strict Euro IV emission limits.

The NOVITEC TRIDENTE SPORT compressor conversion starts at 23,681 Euros MSRP. It boosts power output of the GranTurismo S from standard 440 hp / 323 kW to 600 hp / 442 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 490 Nm to 588 Nm at 5,400 rpm. Driving performance benefits accordingly: A sprint time of 4.5 seconds from rest to 100 km/h represents an improvement of 0.4 seconds over the production car. And with a sprint time of 14.6 seconds to 200 km/h the tuned 2+2-seater bests its production counterpart by a full 2.6 seconds in this discipline. Top speed grows from 295 to 315 km/h.

Another focal point of the NOVITEC TRIDENTE program is the car’s exterior. The designers have developed a package that optimizes aerodynamic properties while further emphasizing the sporty character of the coupe. All exterior components are optionally available with a clear-coated carbon-fiber finish.

The NOVITEC TRIDENTE front spoiler lips are attached to both sides of the production front apron. Their sophisticated shapes reduce aerodynamic lift on the front axle at high speeds. Rocker panels calm the airstream along the sides of the vehicle and give the coupe a longer, sleeker and lower appearance.

On the rear axle a subtle spoiler lip on the trunk lid and the diffuser for the production bumper provide the aerodynamic balance necessary for even better directional stability at high speeds.

NOVITEC TRIDENTE light-alloy wheels are yet another custom development for all Maserati GranTurismo models. The three-piece wheels with five double spokes are available in various color combinations in size 9Jx20 in front and in size 12.5Jx21 on the rear axle. They fill out the available space beneath the wheel arches perfectly. The optimal high-performance tires come from technology partner Pirelli in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 355/25 ZR 21.

NOVITEC TRIDENTE sport suspensions allow customers to select their preferred ride height and damper settings. But that’s not all: For further increased day-to-day utility a version is available that raises front and rear axle by 40 millimeters at the push of button. After the driver has thus safely negotiated speed bumps or parking ramps the suspension can be lowered to normal level from the cockpit. If the suspension is not lowered by the driver it’ll revert to the normal level automatically once the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h.

Exclusive interior options including a custom-made fully leather interior in any desired color or upholstery round out the NOVITEC TRIDENTE program.

2009 Maserati Quattroporte Race Car

A prestige new entry joins the list of Superstars Series 2009 championship contestants. It is the Swiss Team, ready to bring to its outright debut the Maserati Quattroporte, entrusting it to a very skilful driver, with a noteworthy past in F1 and in Sport and GT categories, whose name is Andrea Chiesa who, except for a few fleeting appearances, for the fist time in his career will be at the wheel of a Touring car.

A challenge entirely original for the team set up at the end of 2008 but with a twenty-year background in car competitions, which aims to line up also a second car already during this season (the other driver will be designed in a short time), fielding men of proven experience. Among them the chief mechanic, Giovanni Albertin, rally cars fitter since the first half of the seventies, thence involved with several key roles in Ferrari Challenge and in GT Series both in Italy and abroad.

That of the Trident is also a new brand in the championship for V8 Touring cars only and for this reason the Swiss Team commitment constitutes for sure, to all intents and purposes, a reason of special interest in the context of a varied and fierce competition.

"Ours is a triennial program, mainly supported by E-Light sponsor - explained Giovanni Albertin. The choice to take part in Superstars Series championship originates also from the fact that in this category the public is directly involved, because it is induced to identify its own every day car with those on track. The idea, after first races, is to line up a second car too. We favoured the Quattroporte pushed by Maserati blazon, also if we will have to work at once on weight distribution and reduction. Sadev is developing expressly for us a sequential gearbox and we expect to carry out first tests at the beginning of April."

Andrea Chiesa, born in 1964, competed in three F.1 Grand Prix with Fondmetal-Ford in 1992, but claims also a glorious past in F.3 (in which he distinguished himself in 1987 becoming Italian vice-champion) and in F. 3000 in which raced for three years winning the Mediterranean Grand Prix on Pergusa track in 1989. After leaving single-seater, more recently he was crowned N-GT Italian champion in 2004-2005 biennium and took also part in several editions of Le Mans 24 Hours. Superstars has grown year by year thus becoming, in my view, a valid alternative to GT - stated the experienced driver - both for a factor related to more affordable costs and for the appeal resulting from the presence of many models in addition to an attractive international openness and media coverage. For 2009 I can only say that, with the exception of the circuits, we will have to discover time by time almost everything. I haven't seen the car yet and both I and the team will be able to have an idea of the available car potential only when we will bring it on track. The objective is to reach a good level of competitiveness and reliability which for sure are not missing to the others, being present in the championship since long time. The occurrence of driving again a rear drive car encourages myself because I'm convinced that the kind of driving won't be so different from that of GTs I had in my hands in the last years, besides of course the dimensions, the weight and the aerodynamic load. Further on, speaking about the team, I already knew the people working on this project and their soundness. All this will allow me to face my coming commitment with more tranquillity.

The Maserati Quattroporte in a rear drive car with a front V8, 4.200 cc engine able to develop about 450 HP in its racing version. The weight, without the handicap due the use of a sequential gearbox (a Sadev placed in the car rear) is 1.430 kg. Tyres are Pirelli, according to regulations, while the bodywork, for an explicit choice, mirrors almost totally that of the road version with a few small aerodynamic changes. At Swiss Team home are already working at full tilt on first Maserati Quattroporte assembly. The rendezvous is in a little more than one month, when the team will carry out the first test sessions in view of Imola first round on April 19.