Maserati GranCabrio MC a soft top with a hard core

MC Stradale go-fast parts bolted in place to lend Maserati convertible some serious mumbo

Maserati has announced a desirable new model joining the local range with its GranCabrio MC, priced at $355,000.

The new car is based on the standard GranCabrio, but with additional features lifted from the GranTurismo MC Stradale coupe. At the heart of the new car is a 338kW version of Maserati's 4.7 litre V8 engine, capable of pushing the GranCabrio MC up to a top speed of 289km/h and reaching 100km/h from a standing start in 4.9 seconds.

The engine drives to the rear wheels via the same six-speed automated manual transmission fitted to the MC Stradale, which Maserati claims is "the most aggressive automatic gearbox offered by Maserati." Named the MC AutoShift, the transmission comes with launch control and will hold gears even when the engine has reached its maximum revs – and it will blip the throttle on downshifts.

An exhaust layout from the Trofeo and GT4 racing cars offered Maserati an opportunity to fit a second by-pass muffler that channels the exhaust for a louder note when the car's 'Sport' mode is selected by the driver. According to the company, the exhaust note in Sport mode is deeper-pitched and the car will 'crackle' on the overrun.

Revised suspension settings for the GranCabrio MC have reduced body roll by 10 per cent. Maserati claims that the car's steering response is improved, as is stability in high-speed bends.

Maserati designers working on the new GranCabrio variant have adopted aerodynamic fixes, including splitters at the front and rear. These have resulted in downforce gains of 10 per cent at the front and 25 per cent at the rear, when measured at 140km/h – which is about half the car's top speed.

The GranCabrio MC can also be identified by bonnet vents for heat extraction from the engine bay, side skirts and a large rear spoiler. Front quarter panels are shared with the GranTurismo MC Stradale and can be picked by the larger air vent behind the front wheel arches, and the de-chromed 'port hole' vents.

New seats designed for the GranCabrio MC owe the look and shape to the seats in the GranTurismo Trofeo racing car, but provide 20mm of extra leg room as well. Upholstery throughout the cabin combines leather and Alcantara with a choice of three decorative trim materials: carbon fibre, lacquered wood and dark chrome. Shift paddles and drilled aluminium pedals from the Stradale add the final touch to the interior.

“While the changes to the exterior of the Maserati GranCabrio MC make no attempt to hide the aggressive performance intent of this car, it does offer a glorious Jekyll and Hyde character,” said Glen Sealey, General Manager for Maserati Australia, as quoted in a press release.

“On one hand it retains the svelte ability of the GranCabrio to provide the ultimate open top motoring experience for four people, to gracefully and comfortably swallow distances with security, style and luxury. On the other hand, press the sport button, place the gearbox into manual mode and release launch control and the Maserati GranCabrio MC reveals its motorsport heritage and will provide a remarkable level of ability on the racetrack. It is a combination that only the ultimate open top Maserati could offer.”

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Written byCarsales Staff

Our team of independent expert car reviewers and journalists

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