The prototype of what can be considered the first GranTurismo – i.e. the first Maserati destined for road use, not racing – was unveiled at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show. It was christened ‘A6’ – A in honour of Alfieri Maserati and 6 denoting its straight-six engine. Its stunnning styling was the work of the renowned designer Pininfarina. Featuring a tapered two-seater cabin, three horizontal ventilation inlets on the wings and futuristic hidden headlights. This ground-breaking design immediately captured the hearts and minds of the public.

The 3500 GT coupé was launched at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show, it marked the company’s entry into the growing grand tourer market and soon became a favourite of Italy’s celebrities and business leaders. A roadster version followed in 1959, the stunning 3500 GT Spyder Vignale. Designed by Giovanni Michelotti, the leading stylist at the renowned coachbuilders, Vignale, this soft-top Maserati was a masterpiece of proportion and was described in the press as a ‘rolling work of art’.

The late 1960s saw the birth of the supercar and some of the most revolutionary and breath-taking designs ever conceived. Amongst the true greats of this era was the Maserati Ghibli. Named after a Saharan wind, it was considered an automotive portrayal of ‘la dolce vita’. It featured exotic elements such as pop-up headlights, electric windows and magnesium alloy wheels. Plush sports seats, with wide ribs, rounded cushions and a reclined driving position made this car a truly comfortable grand tourer, whilst a spacious 24 cubic foot boot and large twin fuel tanks enhanced its practicality.

Launched in 1998, the 3200 GT was the first of a new generation of Maseratis produced under Ferrari management. Innovative and visually dramatic, it also had all the power and performance that customers expected of the marque, capable of an impressive 174 mph and 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds. In 2001, Maserati launched a special, limited edition version of the 3200 GT, named Assetto Corsa. Its interior featured perforated Connolly leather seats, sporty drilled aluminium pedals, and 'Assetto Corsa' scripts on the sill kick panels. The complexity of its upholstery was a testament to the skill of Italian leather craftsmanship.