The Maserati GranSport
Published: 5th February 2005
Technological Excellence: Maserati’s common denominator
There is no doubt whatsoever that what makes these wonderful cars so exceptional is their technical content. The light, compact V8 engine, transaxle architecture, Cambiocorsa gearbox, Skyhook suspension system, MSP, and traction control and braking by CAN (Controlled Area Network) line are the main features of Trident models inspired by the very best Italian tradition.
Engine
The engine powering the GranSport is an awesome 4244 cc eight cylinder, 90-degree "V", normally-aspirated engine. It is light, powerful, and like most advanced racing engines, has a dry sump lubrication and pump assembly outside the monobloc.
The performance of this spectacular engine is enhanced by timing gear featuring two overhead, chain-driven camshafts per bank, four valves-per-cylinder driven by hydraulic tappets and inlet camshafts equipped with continuously variable timing.
Other features include the Bosch ME7.3.2 ignition and injection systems and an accelerator with electronic "drive-by-wire" throttle control, while the microprocessor control units (MCU) interact with the other systems via high speed CAN (Controlled Area Network) line to optimise operation of the engine.
In the GranSport the Maserati V8 truly fulfils its potential, effortlessly punching out a massive 400 hp (295 kW) to deliver absolutely blistering acceleration and driving at its most thrilling.
This beautifully engineered power unit produces stunning performance. The highly-tuned GranSport has a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h) and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) speed of just 4.85 seconds. It will sprint 1000 metres from standstill in 23 adrenaline-fuelled seconds too.
