Maserati GranSport classic cars for sale

History of the Maserati GranSport

Launched at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, the Maserati GranSport was conceived as the sharper, more sporting sibling of the Maserati Coupé (M138/4200 GT). Drawing on the design legacy of Pininfarina, the GranSport represented Maserati’s return to its performance roots, blending sophisticated Gran Turismo traditions with new technology and Ferrari-derived engineering. Intended for those who wanted refined luxury with sharper handling, production remained exclusive with around 8,600 units built until 2007. The model flows directly from the Maserati 3200 GT, which introduced the silhouette, but upgrades the engine to a 4.2-litre V8 and revises virtually all dynamic and aesthetic details.

Model history

The GranSport belongs to Maserati’s M138 platform, tracing its lineage to the 3200 GT, which was not available in the US market. The core Coupé and Spyder layouts saw the GranSport as their higher-performance version, integrating significant enhancements—especially on the transmission, suspension, and aerodynamics. While there was no direct successor branded "GranSport", the philosophy and much of the technology transferred to the later GranTurismo and GranCabrio series, further advancing Maserati’s luxury-performance duality.

Highlights of the Maserati GranSport

The Maserati GranSport combined Pininfarina design, Ferrari engineering and a strong focus on sporty driving experience. Notable elements include the F136 R 4.2-litre V8 with 400 PS, rear transaxle for optimal weight distribution (48% front, 52% rear), a Cambiocorsa automated manual gearbox with F1-derived paddle shifters, and a comprehensively upgraded suspension and braking system. The interior features Alcantara and leather, carbon trim, and a driver-oriented layout. Only about 8,600 units were built, making every example notable for exclusivity.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among the notable limited editions, the "MC Victory" stands out, limited to just 180 units and celebrating Maserati’s racing achievements, distinguished by unique trim and badging. Other rare variants include Final Edition and facelift models, identified by specific features and finishes.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Like many Maseratis of the era, GranSport models are known for the so-called "sticky buttons"—interior switches and vents can develop a tacky residue over time. Otherwise, the model enjoys robust engineering, but thorough checks of Cambiocorsa gearboxes, suspension bushings, and regular service on the sophisticated V8 are vital for reliability.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The soul of the GranSport is its F136 R V8, shared with Ferrari, renowned for its revving character and emotional soundscape. The motor delivers linear, high-rev performance, amplified by the sports exhaust. The Cambiocorsa gearbox, derived from Formula 1 technology, delivers fast shifts controlled via steering wheel paddles. Thanks to the rearward transaxle layout and double wishbone suspension, the GranSport offers neutral handling, high cornering speeds, and excellent feedback. Brembo brakes ensure strong stopping power, while advanced stability systems (MSP, ASR, MSR, EBD, ABS) provide driver confidence. Highlights are the main GranSport Coupé and the ultra-rare MC Victory edition, featuring special trim and a limited build. The standard car already delivers performance figures—400 PS, sub-5 second 0-100 km/h, almost 290 km/h top speed—that put it among the elite GTs of its time.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Pininfarina sculpted an aggressive, aerodynamic body with bold front and rear spoilers, distinctive side skirts, pronounced vents, and bespoke wheels (19" Trofeo). The cabin blends hand-stitched leather, Alcantara, and carbon trim, with supportive seats (heated, with memory function) and a functional infotainment system. Special order options included ‘chameleon’ paint finishes, Xenon headlights, cruise control, parking sensors, upgraded JBL audio, and carbon accessories. Customisation ran deep, with unique colour and material combinations possible for discerning buyers.

Other relevant features

Thanks to the GranSport’s focus on dynamic handling, it features electronically controlled adaptive suspension, advanced traction and braking systems, and tailored luxury options (navigation, dual-zone AC, carbon inlays, and a range of wheel and tyre setups).

Summary

The Maserati GranSport (2004–2007) epitomises Italian GT flair: Ferrari-powered V8, agile chassis, razor-sharp design by Pininfarina, and an interior rich in fine materials and technology. Its focused exclusivity—just 8,600 built—ensures genuine rarity, while its statistics show that it captures the entire attention of classic Maserati Coupé buyers and enthusiasts today.