Maserati GranCabrio Sport

Maserati GranCabrio Sport: technology


Engine


The GranCabrio Sport’s power unit develops 450hp thanks to a series of modifications aimed at optimising its performance. The engine’s development saw innovative techniques employed to reduce friction, like the adoption of Diamond-Like Coating (DLC) for the tappets and camshaft lobes. The wet sump lubrication system, in line with the design of recent Maserati engines, improves fluid dynamics in the sump and allows the number of pumps needed to recoup the oil to be reduced. This means that the engine is now much quieter, has increased its performance while reducing consumption and exhaust emissions; an important objective for Maserati’s engineers and technicians.
The 4.7 litre V8 delivers 450 hp at 7000 rpm and has a maximum torque of 510 Nm at 4750 rpm. These figures stand as testimony to the athletic character of the GranCabrio Sport. Still, it is on the road where its smooth gear changes, immediate accelerator response, generous, ample torque and perfect balance between comfort and performance can be fully appreciated. Then there is the sweet, throaty engine noise that varies depending on whether the exhausy bypass valves are open or closed. The driver’s passion will be in tune with this pure sound to offer a unique driving experience.

Suspensions

An uprated Skyhook suspension system is fitted as standard to this car and features aluminium dampers that constantly adjust the ride.
Skyhook is managed by a control unit that receives data from acceleration sensors positioned on each wheel and on the chassis. The system processes the data and analyses the driving style and road conditions. Thanks to proportional valves on each damper, the unit instantly regulates the damping to deliver superb on-board comfort levels. The ‘Sport’ button can be found on the GranCabrio Sport’s dashboard and pushing it activates a mode specially developed for this model: the car’s character undergoes a transformation, the set up becomes sportier to provide more grip and sharper handling.

Brakes

Powerful brakes are a must on a car like the GranCabrio Sport. The four discs are grooved and ventilated to cope with more spirited driving. The brakes really come into their own in the wet where they significantly reduce stopping distances and improve consistency in braking performance.

Transmission

The transmission operates in five modes: Auto Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Normal, Manual Sport and Ice. MC Auto Shift kicks in once Auto Sport mode is selected and allows the car to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.. All the gearbox information is relayed to the centre of the instrument panel and the transmission can be controlled manually via the steering wheel mounted ‘Trofeo Design’ paddles. These are now slightly longer to make changing gear easier.
The new Maserati Stability Program (MSP) calibration dedicated to the GranCabrio Sport allows the driver more scope to enjoy the car, but still within the bounds of safety.