MASERATI

words - Gautam Sharma
German tuner Anderson treats Maserati's sublime GranTurismo S to a dose of black magic
prestige new cars  » Get the best price on a new Maserati

Last week we showed you Mazda's MX-5 Black Limited Edition, and now here's yet another addition to the black catalogue.

The sinister coupe pictured alongside -- which seemingly upstages even Maser's own go-faster MC Stradale -- is the handiwork of Dusseldorf-based tweaker Anderson, and it's fittingly dubbed the GranTurismo S Superior Black Edition.

The makeover begins with the obvious matt black paintwork that coats the Maser's voluptuous curves, and the only contrast comes via gloss-black finish on the window frames, grille and the rear badge. Enhancing its stealthy look, the headlamp and tail-lamp lenses are also smoked.

Naturally, the 21-inch rims are also coated in gloss black finish, and they're wrapped within 265mm wide rubber at the front and 295s at the rear.

Other external mods designed to boost aesthetics -- and save weight -- include a carbonfibre bonnet, mirrors and tailgate. The lateral air inlets and front and rear aprons are also made from the lightweight material.

But in case you're thinking this just another cosmetic revamp you'd be wrong because a remapped ECU and bespoke exhaust system with racing cats boosts power from 324kW to a more brag-worthy 360kW (comfortably shading the MC Stradale's 331kW).

The centre-exit exhausts have two valve settings enabling the driver to choose whether or not to wake the entire neighbourhood with the V8's bark.

Inside, there are the mandatory lashings of carbonfibre on the door sill panels, steering wheel, seat adjustment knobs, shift paddles, radio fascia, air vents, door knobs and control panel in the roof liner.

Offsetting all the carbonfibre is black carbon leather trim with Alcantara inserts and red rhombus seams, adding to the sense of occasion. Meanwhile, the customised sound system has a specially made display screen in the dashboard, and there are also screens in the rear of the headrests.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site

Powered By Motoring.com.au Published : Saturday, 6 August 2011
Disclaimer:
In most cases, motoring.com.au attends new vehicle launches at the invitation and expense of vehicle manufacturers and/or distributors.

Editorial prices shown are a "price guide" only, based on information provided to us by the manufacturer. Pricing current at the time of writing editorial. Pricing prior to editorial dated 25 May 2009 may refer to RRP. Due to Clarity on Pricing legislation, RRP for those editorials now means "price guide". When purchasing a car, always confirm the single figure price with the seller of an actual vehicle.

^ If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away No More to Pay", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges. Please confirm price and features with the seller of the vehicle.

Opinions expressed with motoring.com.au editorial material are those of the writer and not necessarily Carsales.com Ltd. motoring.com.au editorial staff and contributors attend overseas and local events as guests of car manufacturers and importers.

Click here for further information about our Terms & Conditions.

Latest