This was the Trofeo's first appearance in Australia after being specially air freighted from Italy for a guest appearance at the Bathurst 24-Hour enduro.

The crisp sound of the 420hp V8 resonated right across the top of the mountain, with many fans later flocking to the pits to get a closer look at the Trident marques new racecar. Maserati has officially been retired from motorsport since winning the 1957 Formula One World Drivers Title with Juan Manuel Fangio at the wheel.

Maserati's return to motorsport has every possibility to include Australia, with plans for a one make series underway in 2004 . The series is designed for gentlemen drivers with a racing soul.