Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale

MANILA, Philippines - Italian sports cars are an occasion in and of themselves. The voluptuous body work, the screaming engine, the rich interior, and the racing bloodline are all elements that make these automotive beauties so desirable. When a brand confers the Stradale moniker to one of its steeds, then you know you’ve got something special in your hands.

Stradale is typically Italian speak for “race-inspired” or technology taken from the race-track. Maserati Corse or MC, is Maser’s race division, and they’ve taken what they learned from the Trofeo GranTurismo MC and GT4 cars, and infused such alchemy into its 2 door luxury GT. The result? A car that can give 911 GT3 owners a scare.

Sharper in all respects

This is what you can expect from this new thoroughbred. Getting the racing treatment means shaving unnecessary mass. From the deletion of sound insulating devices, swapping to carbon fiber seats, lighter exhaust system, to the carbon ceramic brakes, the MC Stradale benefits from a 110 kg lighter architecture. The car tips the scales at 1770 kg, while maintains a balanced 48:52 weight distribution.

Road holding is taken up a notch by lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, specifically 10mm at the front and 12 mm back. Spring rates are now firmer by 8% throughout. The vehicle’s anti roll bars were also thickened to 25mm (F) and 23mm (R) to better resist understeer. For greater grip, specially developed Pirelli PZero Corsa tyres were shod on the MC Stradale.

Still motivated by the smooth naturally aspirated 4.7 liter V8 sourced from the base GranTurismo model, this iteration was massaged to gain an additional 10 HP and 20 Nm of twist, bumping up figures to 450 hp and 510 Nm respectively. Matched to the revised exhaust system, the MC Stradale shrieks robustly when taken to its rev limits. The 6-speed paddle shifted transmission can swap gears in as fast as 60 milliseconds, allowing the car to reach 100 km/h from stop in just 4.6 secs. Aerodynamic aids have also been applied to the car, enabling it to be the only Maserati in the current line up to breach the 300 km/h barrier.

Visual Distinction Inside and Out

Within, the mood is a subtle racy aggression integrated with luxurious details. Alcantara and carbon fiber have been applied generously to the upholstery and panels, creating a high-tech Darth Vader appeal. The rear seats have been thrown out and for added safety a roll cage was put it. The front seats are made with carbon fiber to aid lightness, while 4-point harnesses have taken the place of the standard belts.

Fortunately, there are no wild spoilers or wings to ruin the GranTurismo’s classic shape. The front bumper received functional and stylish vents, also beneficial to cooling the brakes. New side skirts add that touch of flare, while a tasteful lip spoiler compliments the revised rear bumper. New 20-inch wheels were also installed, lightweight as they are handsome.

Perfect for Road and Track

Those looking for that little edge from the usual gentlemanly demeanor of Maseratis would be well advised to look the way of the MC Stradale. Honed in the track but prepped for the road, this Italian promises one visceral drive.