Difference between revisions of "Maserati Quattroporte"

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The '''Maserati Quattroporte''' is a luxury four-door [[sedan]] made by [[Maserati]] of [[Italy]]. There have been five generations of the car, each separated by a period of roughly five years.
 
The '''Maserati Quattroporte''' is a luxury four-door [[sedan]] made by [[Maserati]] of [[Italy]]. There have been five generations of the car, each separated by a period of roughly five years.
 +
  
 
==Quattroporte I (1963 – 1969)==
 
==Quattroporte I (1963 – 1969)==
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In the early 1960s, Maserati's reputation was at a high. With growing sales, Prince Karim Aga Khan ordered a special Maserati 5000 WP, chassis no. 103,060, designed by [[Pietro Frua]]. The following year, Maserati showed the first-generation Quattroporte of [[1963]], which bore a striking resemblance to the earlier drawing.
 
  
−
Also designed by Frua, the 1963 'Tipo 107' Quattroporte (Italian for 'four doors') joined two other notable grand tourers, the [[Facel Vega]] and the [[Lagonda Rapide]], which could comfortably do 200 km/h on the new motorways of Europe. However, the Quattroporte could be said to have been the first car specifically designed for this purpose.
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:1964-71_maserati_quattroporte_01_m.jpg|250px]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''First Generation'''
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|-
 +
| Production      ||  1963-1969
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|-
 +
| Layout          ||  [[FR layout]]
 +
|-
 +
| Engine          ||  4.1L 256hp [[V8]]<br>4.7L, 295hp [[V8]]
 +
|-
 +
| Transmission    ||  5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]<Br>3-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
 +
|-
 +
| Length  ||    5000mm
 +
|-
 +
| Width  ||      1690mm
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|-
 +
| Height  ||      1525mm
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|-
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| Weight  ||    1700kg
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|-
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| Wheelbase  ||    2700mm
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|-
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| Track  || 
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|-
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| Related  || 
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|-
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| Similar  || 
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|-
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| Designer  || 
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|-
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| Fuel capacity  ||  91L
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|}
  
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It was equipped with a 4.1&nbsp;L (4136&nbsp;cc/252&nbsp;in&sup3;) V8 engine, producing 256&nbsp;hp ([[horsepower#hp (SAE)|SAE]]) (191&nbsp;kW) at 5,600 rpm, and either a five-speed ZF manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. Maserati claimed a top speed of 230&nbsp;km/h (143&nbsp;mph).
 
  
−
Between 1963 and [[1966]], 230 examples were made.
 
  
−
In 1966, Maserati revised the Tipo 107, adding twin headlights (already on the [[USA|US]] model) and, from [[1968]], a 4.7 L, 295&nbsp;hp (SAE) (220&nbsp;kW) engine. Around 500 of the second series were made. Production stopped in [[1969]].
+
In the early 1960s, Maserati's reputation was at a high. With growing sales, Prince [[Karim Aga Khan]] ordered a special Maserati 5000 WP, chassis no. 103,060, designed by [[Pietro Frua]]. The following year, Maserati showed the first-generation Quattroporte of 1963, which bore a striking resemblance to the earlier drawing.
 +
 
 +
Also designed by Frua, the 1963 'Tipo 107' Quattroporte joined two other notable grand tourers, the [[Facel Vega]] and the [[Lagonda Rapide]], which could comfortably do 200km/h on the new motorways of Europe. However, the Quattroporte could be said to have been the first car specifically designed for this purpose.
 +
 
 +
It was equipped with a 4.1&nbsp;L (4136&nbsp;cc/252&nbsp;in³) [[V8 engine]], producing 256&nbsp;hp ([[horsepower#hp (SAE)|SAE]]) (191&nbsp;kW) at 5,600&nbsp;rpm, and either a five-speed ZF [[manual transmission]] or a three-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]. Maserati claimed a top speed of 230&nbsp;km/h (143&nbsp;mph).
 +
 
 +
Between 1963 and 1966, 230 examples were made.
 +
 
 +
In 1966, Maserati revised the Tipo 107, adding twin headlights (already on the [[United States|US]] model) and, from 1968, a 4.7 L, 295&nbsp;hp (SAE) (220&nbsp;kW) engine. Around 500 of the second series were made. Production stopped in 1969.
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 +
In 1971, Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the [[Maserati Indy]] platform, given the reference code AM 121.
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 +
 
 +
== External Link ==
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 +
[http://www.maserati-indy.co.uk/alfieri65.htm More Info]
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 +
{{-}}
  
 
==Quattroporte II (1974 – 1978)==
 
==Quattroporte II (1974 – 1978)==
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In [[1971]], Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the [[Maserati Indy]] platform, given the reference code AM 121. In [[1974]], at the Turin Show, Maserati presented its Quattroporte II (Tipo 123) on a [[Citroën SM]] chassis, since Citroën had purchased the Italian company. It had an angular [[Bertone]] body, fashionable at the time, and was the only Maserati with a [[hydropneumatic]] suspension and front wheel drive. However, the [[1973 oil crisis]] had intervened and demand for such cars disappeared. Furthermore the technical backbone didn't convince the customers. Maserati made 13 Quattroporte IIs, 6 of them originally were pre-production models and the other seven were built to order between 1975 and 1978.
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:maserati_quattroporte_series2_1974-m.jpg|250px]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''Second Generation'''
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|-
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| production    || 1974-1978
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|-
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| layout        || [[MF layout]]
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|}
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 +
 
 +
In [[1971]], Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the [[Maserati Indy]] platform, given the reference code AM 121. In [[1974]], at the Turin Show, Maserati presented its [[Maserati Quattroporte II|Quattroporte II]] (Tipo 123) on a [[Citroën SM]] chassis, since Citroën had purchased the Italian company. It had an angular [[Bertone]] body, fashionable at the time, and was the only Maserati with a [[hydropneumatic]] suspension and front wheel drive. However, the [[1973 oil crisis]] had intervened and demand for such cars disappeared. Furthermore the technical backbone didn't convince the customers. Maserati made 13 Quattroporte IIs, 6 of them originally were pre-production models and the other seven were built to order between 1975 and 1978.
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 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
  
 
==Quattroporte III (4porte 1976 – 1979, Quattroporte 1979 – 1990)==
 
==Quattroporte III (4porte 1976 – 1979, Quattroporte 1979 – 1990)==
−
[[Giorgetto Giugiaro]] presented two [[ItalDesign]] show cars on Maserati platforms, called the Medici I and Medici II. The latter, in particular, featured hallmarks which would make it into the production of the third-generation Quattroporte. By the end of 1976, Maserati announced the Quattroporte III (Tipo AM 330), which took much from the Medici show cars, based on Maserati's [[Maserati Kyalami|Kyalami]] coupé, which in turn was based on the [[De Tomaso Longchamp]].
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:QPserieIII.jpg|250px]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''Third Generation'''
 +
|-
 +
| Production    || 1976-1990
 +
|-
 +
| Layout        || [[FR layout]]
 +
|-
 +
| Engine        || 4.2L 251hp [[V8]]<br>4.2L 238hp [[V8]]<br>4.9L 280hp [[V8]]<br>4.9L 295hp [[V8]]
 +
|-
 +
|Designer    || [[Giorgetto Giugiaro]]
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Considered a "business man's Maserati," the Quattroporte III was launched by newly empowered Maserati chief [[Alejandro de Tomaso]] and his design staff in 1976. This was a [[rear wheel drive]] car, powered by a large V8 engine. It was important to ''de Tomaso'' that there was an Italian vehicle to compete with the recently launched [[Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9]].
 +
 
 +
The production figures for the Quattroporte are as follows:
  
−
In 1976 the Quattroporte III was launched as "4porte" with a 4.2&nbsp;L engine producing 251&nbsp;hp (SAE) (187&nbsp;kW), later 238&nbsp;hp (SAE) (177&nbsp;kW). 1979 the Quattroporte got its true name back and was built with the 4.2&nbsp;L and a new 4.9&nbsp;L engine 278&nbsp;hp (SAE) (207&nbsp;kW). The latter initially had a three-speed Borg–Warner [[automatic transmission]], soon replaced by a Chrysler Torqueflite 'box. The smaller engine was phased out in [[1981]].
+
*There were 1876 Quattroporte III's produced between 1979 and 1988.
 +
*There were 1821 standard 4portes manufactured between 1979 and 1984.
 +
*The remaining 55 cars were all Royales and were manufactured between late 1984 and 1988. These were the [[US$]]80,000 cars that were built to order only.
  
−
In [[1986]], the '''Maserati Royale''', an ultra-luxury version of the Quattroporte III, appeared. The engine was uprated to 295&nbsp;hp (SAE) (220&nbsp;kW).
+
The Quattroporte III marked the last of the hand-built Italian cars for specialized markets. All exterior joints and seams were filled to give a seamless appearance.
  
−
In all, 2'141 Quattroporte IIIs were made, one of them being for Italian presidential usage. Production ceased in [[1990]].
+
In 1976, [[Giorgetto Giugiaro]] presented two [[ItalDesign]] show cars on Maserati platforms, called the Medici I and Medici II. The latter in particular featured hallmarks which would make it into the production of the third-generation Quattroporte. By the end of 1976, Maserati announced the Quattroporte III (Tipo AM 330), which took much from the Medici show cars, based on Maserati's [[Maserati Kyalami|Kyalami]] coupé, which in turn was based on the [[De Tomaso Longchamp]].
 +
 
 +
In 1976 the Quattroporte III was launched as "4porte" with a 4.2&nbsp;L engine producing 251&nbsp;hp (SAE) (187&nbsp;kW), later 238&nbsp;hp (SAE) (177&nbsp;kW). Also available was a 4.9 liter V8 (280&nbsp;bhp @ 5800&nbsp;rpm). One distinguishing characteristic of the vehicle was its lavish interior. The car was designed by [[Giorgetto Giugiaro]] of coachbuilder [[ItalDesign]]. In 1979 the Quattroporte got its true name back and was built with the 4.2&nbsp;L and a new 4.9&nbsp;L engine 278&nbsp;hp (SAE) (207&nbsp;kW). The latter initially had a three-speed Borg–Warner [[automatic transmission]], soon replaced by a Chrysler [[Torqueflite]] gearbox. The smaller engine was phased out in 1981.
 +
 
 +
In 1986, the '''Maserati Royale''', an ultra-luxury version of the Quattroporte III, appeared. The engine was upgraded to 295&nbsp;hp (SAE) (220&nbsp;kW).
 +
 
 +
In all, 2,141 Quattroporte IIIs were produced, one of them for Italian presidential use. Production ceased in 1990.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
*[[Maserati Quattroporte III Pics]]
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 +
{{-}}
  
 
==4-door Biturbos (1983 – 1994)==
 
==4-door Biturbos (1983 – 1994)==
−
The 4-door Biturbos such as the original 425 weren't aimed at the same customers like the big Quattroporte I, II and III.
+
''See also: [[Maserati Biturbo]]''
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:Maserati 430 1998 NB.jpg|250px|Maserati 430, 2.8L 225 hp (kat) 1989]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''4-door Biturbos'''
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|-
 +
| Production    || 1983-1994
 +
|-
 +
| Layout        || [[FR layout]]
 +
|-
 +
| Engine        || 2.0L [[V6]]<BR>2.5L [[V6]]<br>2.8L [[V6]]
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The 4-door Biturbos such as the original 425 weren't aimed at the same customers as the big Quattroporte I, II and III.
  
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All 4-door Biturbos carry the figure "4" in their model name and are based on the 2-door Biturbos with an extended wheelbase. They were available in various "tastes": 11 different models each equipped with a different version of the V6 Biturbo engine (2.0&nbsp;L, 2.5&nbsp;L and 2.8&nbsp;L). Besides being fairly successful as a general model some versions are extremly rare, e.g. the 4.18v was built 77 times and sold solely in Italy. The 4-door Biturbos were the only sedans available from Maserati between [[1990]] and [[1994]] and in several markets even between [[1986]] and 1994 (where the Royale wasn't sold due to emission problems).
+
All 4-door Biturbos carry the figure "4" in their model name and are based on the 2-door Biturbos with an extended wheelbase. They were available in various "tastes": 11 different models each equipped with a different version of the V6 Biturbo engine (2.0&nbsp;L, 2.5&nbsp;L and 2.8&nbsp;L). Besides being fairly successful as a general model some versions are extremely rare, e.g. the 4.18v was built 77 times and sold solely in Italy. The 4-door Biturbos were the only sedans available from Maserati between 1990 and 1994 and in several markets even between 1986 and 1994 (where the Royale wasn't sold due to emission problems).
  
−
The 430 4v was the last version of the 4-door Biturbos. The technical backbone (engine, drivetrain, suspension, AC etc.), general layout and interior design were used for the Quattroporte IV.
+
The 430 4v was the last version of the 4-door Biturbos. The some technical elements and design were used for the Quattroporte IV.
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 +
{{-}}
  
 
==Quattroporte IV (1994 – 2000)==
 
==Quattroporte IV (1994 – 2000)==
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:QPorteIV_4.jpg|280px]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''Fourth Generation'''
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|-
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| Production      ||  1994-2000
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|-
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| Layout          ||  [[FR layout]]
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|-
 +
| Engine          ||  2.8L 284hp [[V6]]<Br>2.0L 287hp [[V6]]<br>3.2L 330hp [[V8]]
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|-
 +
| Length          ||  4550mm
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|-
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| Layout          ||  [[FR layout]]
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|-
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| Width            ||  1810mm
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|-
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| Height          || 
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|-
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| Weight          ||  1647kg
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|-
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| Engine          ||  3217 cc 336hp [[V8]]
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|-
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |<videoflash>32HotYjPsf0|280|200</videoflash>
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|}
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At the height of Fiat's styling prowess, Maserati was confident to be more adventurous with Quattroporte IV from 1994. Designed by [[Marcello Gandini]], who had penned the [[Lamborghini Countach]], the new car was smaller, very aerodynamic (0.31 [[coefficient of drag|cd]]), and featured Gandini's trademark angular rear wheel arch.
 +
 +
A 2.8&nbsp;L Biturbo V6 was installed, producing 284&nbsp;hp (SAE) (208&nbsp;kW), reaching a top speed of 255&nbsp;km/h (158&nbsp;mph) while the Italians even had a 2.0&nbsp;L Biturbo V6 producing 287&nbsp;hp (SAE) (211&nbsp;kW) on their price list, both coming from the [[Maserati Biturbo]] engine catalog. A V8 3.2&nbsp;L Biturbo was announced in 1995, coming from the [[Maserati Shamal]], developing 330&nbsp;hp (SAE) (246&nbsp;kW) and reaching 263&nbsp;km/h (163&nbsp;mph).
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 +
When [[Ferrari]] took over Maserati, it introduced a '''Quattroporte Evoluzione''' in 1998. It featured 400 different improvements to Maserati standards of manufacturing. This improved model saw the famous oval Maserati clock disappear from the interior. Production stopped in 2000.
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[[Image:5fyutytiur64587.jpg|thumb|350px|left|'''2006 Maserati Quattroporte at [http://www.woiow.com Wheels Of Italy]]]'''
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{{-}}
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==Quattroporte V (2004 – 2008)==
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{| border=1 cellspacing=3 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#505050; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#505050;"
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| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#333333; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" |[[Image:Maserati Quattroporte (IAA 2005).jpg|250px|Maserati Quattroporte (V).]]
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|- style="color:#fff; background:darkred; font-size:larger;"
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! colspan=2 |'''Fifth Generation'''
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|-
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| Production      ||  2004-present
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|-
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| Wheelbase        ||  3063 mm (120.6 in)
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|-
 +
| Length          ||  5052 mm (198.9 in)
 +
|-
 +
| Layout          ||  [[FR layout]]
 +
|-
 +
| Width            ||  1895 mm (74.6 in)
 +
|-
 +
| Height          ||  1438 mm (56.6 in)
 +
|-
 +
| Weight          ||  1860kg
 +
|-
 +
| Engine          ||  4.2L 400hp [[V8]]
 +
|-
 +
| Fuel capacity    ||  19.8L
 +
|-
 +
| Transmission    ||  6-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
 +
|}
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 +
 +
[[Image:Maserati Quattroporte Exec GT interior at 2006 Chicago Auto Show.jpg|thumb|250px|Interior of a Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT.]]
 +
 +
In 2004, [[Maserati]] started production of the [[Pininfarina]]-designed '''Quattroporte''', with the same 4.2&nbsp;L engine as the [[Maserati Coupé / Spyder|Coupé]], [[Maserati Coupé / Spyder|Spyder]] and the new [[Maserati GranTurismo|GranTurismo]] but improved to 400&nbsp;hp (SAE) (298&nbsp;kW).  Due to its greater weight than the Coupé and Spyder, the 0-60&nbsp;mph (0-96&nbsp;km/h) time for the Quattroporte is 5.2 seconds.  The Quattroporte was unveiled to the world at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show]] on [[September 9]], [[2003]] and made its US première at the 2003 [[Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance|Pebble Beach Concours d'Élégance]].  It is a continuation of the long tradition of Quattroporte luxury sedans in the Maserati line-up.
 +
 +
The 47% front / 53% rear weight distribution (with the DuoSelect transmission) allows the large sedan to have very nimble handling.  This weight distribution is achieved by setting the engine further back in the chassis behind the front axle to shift the load back towards the cabin, and the adoption of the Transaxle layout which sees the gearbox rear-mounted in unit with the differential.  The transaxle architecture is normally reserved for high performance sports cars and is the first time applied to a luxury sedan.  The Quattroporte's weight distribution maximizes traction and thrust during acceleration so that the car remains exceptionally stable and well balanced at all times. With the newer automatic transmission, the transmission is adjacent to the engine and weight distribution changes to 49% front / 51% rear.
 +
 +
===Trim Levels===
 +
The Maserati Quattroporte is offered in four configurations: the base Quattroporte, the Quattroporte Sport GT, the Quattroporte Sport GTS, and the Quattroporte Executive GT.
 +
 +
====Sport GT====
 +
The '''Sport GT''' version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show]] in September 2005.  It features a reworked transmission, exhaust, 20 inch wheels, suspension modifications, and special interior and exterior accents including a mesh grille.
  
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http://maseratinet.com/IMAGES/QPorteIV_4.jpg
+
====Sport GTS====
 +
The '''Sport GTS''' version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show]] in September of 2007. It features a revised suspension, 20 inch wheels, and larger rear tires for improved handling. The brakes received iron/aluminum rotors for greater fade resistance. Various interior upgrades include alcantara and carbon fiber accents.
  
−
At the height of Fiat's styling prowess, Maserati was confident to be more adventurous with Quattroporte IV from [[1994]]. Designed by [[Marcello Gandini]], who had penned the [[Lamborghini Countach]], the new car was smaller, very aerodynamic (0.31 [[coefficient of drag|cd]]), and featured Gandini's trademark angular rear wheel arch.
+
====Executive GT====
 +
The '''Executive GT''' version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the [[North American International Auto Show]] in January 2006.  It is based on a special [[Neiman-Marcus]] version, with 19in ball-polished wheels and an [[Alcantara]] suede interior roof lining. Other features include [[Chrome plating|chrome]] side and front grills and a [[wood]]-trimmed steering wheel. Included standard on the Executive GT version is a Maserati comfort pack with ventilated, heating, [[car seat|massaging rear seat]]s, [[wikt:retractable|retractable]] wood rear tables, and [[curtain]] [[shade]]s on the [[rear window]]s.
  
−
A 2.8&nbsp;L Biturbo V6 was installed, producing 280&nbsp;hp (SAE) (208&nbsp;kW), reaching a top speed of 255&nbsp;km/h (158&nbsp;mph) while the Italians even had a 2.0&nbsp;L Biturbo V6 producing 283&nbsp;hp (SAE) (211&nbsp;kW) on their price list. A V8 3.2&nbsp;L Biturbo was announced in [[1995]], developing 330&nbsp;hp (SAE) (246&nbsp;kW) and reaching 263&nbsp;km/h (163&nbsp;mph).
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===Transmissions===
 +
====Duo Select====
 +
The '''Duo Select''' transmission was available at the launch of the fifth generation Quattroporte, in 2004. Duo Select was an advancement of the ''CambioCorsa'' unit first used in the [[Maserati Coupe]].  It is a [[semi-automatic transmission]], located at the rear of the car.
  
−
When [[Ferrari]] took over Maserati, it introduced a '''Quattroporte Evoluzione''' in [[1998]]. This improved model saw the famous oval Maserati clock disappear from the interior. Production stopped in [[2000]].
+
====Automatica====
 +
A full [[automatic transmission]] with 6 speeds (by ZF) was presented at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2007 with the first cars delivered right after the launch, marketed as the '''Maserati Quattroporte Automatica'''. The Automatica will be available with [[Semi-automatic transmission|paddle-shifters]] on the Sport GT model as standard, but on the base model and the Executive trim levels paddles will be an optional extra. The Automatica uses a wet sump oiling system and the transmission is located directly behind the engine, as opposed to a dry sump and a rear-mounted transmission used on Duo Select models. The wet sump method is also featured on the up-and-coming [[Maserati GranTurismo]].
  
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==Quattroporte V (2004 – today)==
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===Competitors===
 +
Only 5,700 Quattroportes were made in 2006. In 2009, the [[Aston Martin Rapide]] will be the Quattroporte's main rival as the market, trim, and exclusivity will be very similar, although it will be powered with a [[V12]] engine and will be much more expensive. Also in 2008/2009 the [[Porsche Panamera]] will be on sale, creating more competition to the high-end luxury saloon segment.
  
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http://www.wheelsofitaly.com/v2/us/en/xhtml/downloads/2005show/images/5fyutytiur64587.JPG
+
===2009 Facelift===
 +
Images of the 2009 Facelifted Quattroporte appeared on the Internet on the 30th of January 2008. The car is expected to make its official début in early 2009.
  
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In [[2004]], [[Maserati]] started production of the '''Quattroporte''', with the same 4.2&nbsp;L engine as the [[Maserati Coupe|Coupe]] and [[Maserati Spyder|Spyder]] but improved to 400&nbsp;hp (SAE) (298&nbsp;kW).  Due to the greater weight than the Coupe and Spyder, the 0-60 time for the Quattroporte to 5.2 seconds.  The Quattroporte made its US première at the [[2003]] [[Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance|Pebble Beach Concours d'Élégance]].  It continues the long tradition of Quattroporte luxury sedans in the Maserati line-up.
 
  
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The future most likely will see a long wheel-base version of the Quattroporte equipped with a bigger and more powerful engine. Rumored engines include a 5.0 L V8 engine producing 470&nbsp;hp (SAE) (350&nbsp;kW) (a bored-up 4.2) and even a Ferrari-612 sourced 5.4 L V12 engine producing 540&nbsp;hp (SAE) (402&nbsp;kW). In addition, the new Gran Turismo (Coupé 4-seater; Spyder 2-seater) will use the shortened floorpan of the Quattroporte while the GT Wagon (former Maserati Kubang) could be presented in 2006: a 4x4 SUV based on the Quattroporte.
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{{Maserati S.p.A.}}
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{{Maserati timeline}}
  
 
[[Category:Maserati vehicles|Quattroporte]]
 
[[Category:Maserati vehicles|Quattroporte]]
 
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
 
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 20:59, 24 February 2010


The Maserati Quattroporte is a luxury four-door sedan made by Maserati of Italy. There have been five generations of the car, each separated by a period of roughly five years.


Quattroporte I (1963 – 1969)

250px
First Generation
Production 1963-1969
Layout FR layout
Engine 4.1L 256hp V8
4.7L, 295hp V8
Transmission 5-speed manual
3-speed automatic
Length 5000mm
Width 1690mm
Height 1525mm
Weight 1700kg
Wheelbase 2700mm
Track
Related
Similar
Designer
Fuel capacity 91L


In the early 1960s, Maserati's reputation was at a high. With growing sales, Prince Karim Aga Khan ordered a special Maserati 5000 WP, chassis no. 103,060, designed by Pietro Frua. The following year, Maserati showed the first-generation Quattroporte of 1963, which bore a striking resemblance to the earlier drawing.

Also designed by Frua, the 1963 'Tipo 107' Quattroporte joined two other notable grand tourers, the Facel Vega and the Lagonda Rapide, which could comfortably do 200km/h on the new motorways of Europe. However, the Quattroporte could be said to have been the first car specifically designed for this purpose.

It was equipped with a 4.1 L (4136 cc/252 in³) V8 engine, producing 256 hp (SAE) (191 kW) at 5,600 rpm, and either a five-speed ZF manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. Maserati claimed a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph).

Between 1963 and 1966, 230 examples were made.

In 1966, Maserati revised the Tipo 107, adding twin headlights (already on the US model) and, from 1968, a 4.7 L, 295 hp (SAE) (220 kW) engine. Around 500 of the second series were made. Production stopped in 1969.

In 1971, Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the Maserati Indy platform, given the reference code AM 121.


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More Info


Quattroporte II (1974 – 1978)

250px
Second Generation
production 1974-1978
layout MF layout


In 1971, Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the Maserati Indy platform, given the reference code AM 121. In 1974, at the Turin Show, Maserati presented its Quattroporte II (Tipo 123) on a Citroën SM chassis, since Citroën had purchased the Italian company. It had an angular Bertone body, fashionable at the time, and was the only Maserati with a hydropneumatic suspension and front wheel drive. However, the 1973 oil crisis had intervened and demand for such cars disappeared. Furthermore the technical backbone didn't convince the customers. Maserati made 13 Quattroporte IIs, 6 of them originally were pre-production models and the other seven were built to order between 1975 and 1978.







Quattroporte III (4porte 1976 – 1979, Quattroporte 1979 – 1990)

250px
Third Generation
Production 1976-1990
Layout FR layout
Engine 4.2L 251hp V8
4.2L 238hp V8
4.9L 280hp V8
4.9L 295hp V8
Designer Giorgetto Giugiaro


Considered a "business man's Maserati," the Quattroporte III was launched by newly empowered Maserati chief Alejandro de Tomaso and his design staff in 1976. This was a rear wheel drive car, powered by a large V8 engine. It was important to de Tomaso that there was an Italian vehicle to compete with the recently launched Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9.

The production figures for the Quattroporte are as follows:

  • There were 1876 Quattroporte III's produced between 1979 and 1988.
  • There were 1821 standard 4portes manufactured between 1979 and 1984.
  • The remaining 55 cars were all Royales and were manufactured between late 1984 and 1988. These were the US$80,000 cars that were built to order only.

The Quattroporte III marked the last of the hand-built Italian cars for specialized markets. All exterior joints and seams were filled to give a seamless appearance.

In 1976, Giorgetto Giugiaro presented two ItalDesign show cars on Maserati platforms, called the Medici I and Medici II. The latter in particular featured hallmarks which would make it into the production of the third-generation Quattroporte. By the end of 1976, Maserati announced the Quattroporte III (Tipo AM 330), which took much from the Medici show cars, based on Maserati's Kyalami coupé, which in turn was based on the De Tomaso Longchamp.

In 1976 the Quattroporte III was launched as "4porte" with a 4.2 L engine producing 251 hp (SAE) (187 kW), later 238 hp (SAE) (177 kW). Also available was a 4.9 liter V8 (280 bhp @ 5800 rpm). One distinguishing characteristic of the vehicle was its lavish interior. The car was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of coachbuilder ItalDesign. In 1979 the Quattroporte got its true name back and was built with the 4.2 L and a new 4.9 L engine 278 hp (SAE) (207 kW). The latter initially had a three-speed Borg–Warner automatic transmission, soon replaced by a Chrysler Torqueflite gearbox. The smaller engine was phased out in 1981.

In 1986, the Maserati Royale, an ultra-luxury version of the Quattroporte III, appeared. The engine was upgraded to 295 hp (SAE) (220 kW).

In all, 2,141 Quattroporte IIIs were produced, one of them for Italian presidential use. Production ceased in 1990.



4-door Biturbos (1983 – 1994)

See also: Maserati Biturbo

Maserati 430, 2.8L 225 hp (kat) 1989
4-door Biturbos
Production 1983-1994
Layout FR layout
Engine 2.0L V6
2.5L V6
2.8L V6


The 4-door Biturbos such as the original 425 weren't aimed at the same customers as the big Quattroporte I, II and III.

All 4-door Biturbos carry the figure "4" in their model name and are based on the 2-door Biturbos with an extended wheelbase. They were available in various "tastes": 11 different models each equipped with a different version of the V6 Biturbo engine (2.0 L, 2.5 L and 2.8 L). Besides being fairly successful as a general model some versions are extremely rare, e.g. the 4.18v was built 77 times and sold solely in Italy. The 4-door Biturbos were the only sedans available from Maserati between 1990 and 1994 and in several markets even between 1986 and 1994 (where the Royale wasn't sold due to emission problems).

The 430 4v was the last version of the 4-door Biturbos. The some technical elements and design were used for the Quattroporte IV.


Quattroporte IV (1994 – 2000)

280px
Fourth Generation
Production 1994-2000
Layout FR layout
Engine 2.8L 284hp V6
2.0L 287hp V6
3.2L 330hp V8
Length 4550mm
Layout FR layout
Width 1810mm
Height
Weight 1647kg
Engine 3217 cc 336hp V8


At the height of Fiat's styling prowess, Maserati was confident to be more adventurous with Quattroporte IV from 1994. Designed by Marcello Gandini, who had penned the Lamborghini Countach, the new car was smaller, very aerodynamic (0.31 cd), and featured Gandini's trademark angular rear wheel arch.

A 2.8 L Biturbo V6 was installed, producing 284 hp (SAE) (208 kW), reaching a top speed of 255 km/h (158 mph) while the Italians even had a 2.0 L Biturbo V6 producing 287 hp (SAE) (211 kW) on their price list, both coming from the Maserati Biturbo engine catalog. A V8 3.2 L Biturbo was announced in 1995, coming from the Maserati Shamal, developing 330 hp (SAE) (246 kW) and reaching 263 km/h (163 mph).

When Ferrari took over Maserati, it introduced a Quattroporte Evoluzione in 1998. It featured 400 different improvements to Maserati standards of manufacturing. This improved model saw the famous oval Maserati clock disappear from the interior. Production stopped in 2000.


File:5fyutytiur64587.jpg
2006 Maserati Quattroporte at Wheels Of Italy


Quattroporte V (2004 – 2008)

Maserati Quattroporte (V).
Fifth Generation
Production 2004-present
Wheelbase 3063 mm (120.6 in)
Length 5052 mm (198.9 in)
Layout FR layout
Width 1895 mm (74.6 in)
Height 1438 mm (56.6 in)
Weight 1860kg
Engine 4.2L 400hp V8
Fuel capacity 19.8L
Transmission 6-speed automatic


Interior of a Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT.

In 2004, Maserati started production of the Pininfarina-designed Quattroporte, with the same 4.2 L engine as the Coupé, Spyder and the new GranTurismo but improved to 400 hp (SAE) (298 kW). Due to its greater weight than the Coupé and Spyder, the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time for the Quattroporte is 5.2 seconds. The Quattroporte was unveiled to the world at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 9, 2003 and made its US première at the 2003 Pebble Beach Concours d'Élégance. It is a continuation of the long tradition of Quattroporte luxury sedans in the Maserati line-up.

The 47% front / 53% rear weight distribution (with the DuoSelect transmission) allows the large sedan to have very nimble handling. This weight distribution is achieved by setting the engine further back in the chassis behind the front axle to shift the load back towards the cabin, and the adoption of the Transaxle layout which sees the gearbox rear-mounted in unit with the differential. The transaxle architecture is normally reserved for high performance sports cars and is the first time applied to a luxury sedan. The Quattroporte's weight distribution maximizes traction and thrust during acceleration so that the car remains exceptionally stable and well balanced at all times. With the newer automatic transmission, the transmission is adjacent to the engine and weight distribution changes to 49% front / 51% rear.

Trim Levels

The Maserati Quattroporte is offered in four configurations: the base Quattroporte, the Quattroporte Sport GT, the Quattroporte Sport GTS, and the Quattroporte Executive GT.

Sport GT

The Sport GT version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2005. It features a reworked transmission, exhaust, 20 inch wheels, suspension modifications, and special interior and exterior accents including a mesh grille.

Sport GTS

The Sport GTS version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September of 2007. It features a revised suspension, 20 inch wheels, and larger rear tires for improved handling. The brakes received iron/aluminum rotors for greater fade resistance. Various interior upgrades include alcantara and carbon fiber accents.

Executive GT

The Executive GT version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January 2006. It is based on a special Neiman-Marcus version, with 19in ball-polished wheels and an Alcantara suede interior roof lining. Other features include chrome side and front grills and a wood-trimmed steering wheel. Included standard on the Executive GT version is a Maserati comfort pack with ventilated, heating, massaging rear seats, retractable wood rear tables, and curtain shades on the rear windows.

Transmissions

Duo Select

The Duo Select transmission was available at the launch of the fifth generation Quattroporte, in 2004. Duo Select was an advancement of the CambioCorsa unit first used in the Maserati Coupe. It is a semi-automatic transmission, located at the rear of the car.

Automatica

A full automatic transmission with 6 speeds (by ZF) was presented at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2007 with the first cars delivered right after the launch, marketed as the Maserati Quattroporte Automatica. The Automatica will be available with paddle-shifters on the Sport GT model as standard, but on the base model and the Executive trim levels paddles will be an optional extra. The Automatica uses a wet sump oiling system and the transmission is located directly behind the engine, as opposed to a dry sump and a rear-mounted transmission used on Duo Select models. The wet sump method is also featured on the up-and-coming Maserati GranTurismo.

Competitors

Only 5,700 Quattroportes were made in 2006. In 2009, the Aston Martin Rapide will be the Quattroporte's main rival as the market, trim, and exclusivity will be very similar, although it will be powered with a V12 engine and will be much more expensive. Also in 2008/2009 the Porsche Panamera will be on sale, creating more competition to the high-end luxury saloon segment.

2009 Facelift

Images of the 2009 Facelifted Quattroporte appeared on the Internet on the 30th of January 2008. The car is expected to make its official début in early 2009.


Maserati
1950-1969 A6 | 3500 | 5000 GT | Mistral | Quattroporte I | Sebring | Mexico | Ghibli I
1970-1979 Khamsin | Bora | Indy | Merak | Quattroporte II | Quattroporte III | Kyalami
1980-1999 Biturbo | Spyder I | Quattroporte III Royale | Shamal | 220 | 228 | 420 | 430 |Karif | Barchetta | Ghibli II | Quattroporte IV | 3200 GT
2000-present Coupé-Cabrio | Coupe | Spyder II | Gran Sport | Quattroporte V | MC12 | Gran Turismo
Racing Vehicles 26M · 8C · V8RI · 8CM · 8CLT · 8CTF · 8CL · 6CM · 4CL/4CLT · A6GCM · 150S · Tipo 63 · Tipo 65 · 250F · 200S · 250S · 300S · 350S · 450S · Tipo 61 "Birdcage" · Tipo 151 · Tipo 154 · MC12 GT1 · Trofeo
Concept Cars Boomerang · Birdcage 75th
Fiat Group brands Abarth | Alfa Romeo | Autobianchi | Ferrari | Fiat | Lancia | Innocenti | Maserati
Maserati S.p.A., a subsidiary of the Fiat S.p.A. since 1993, road car timeline, 1950s–present
Type 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Ownership Orsi family Citroën De Tomaso Fiat S.p.A.
Executive Biturbo
Luxury Quattroporte QP II QP III QP IV QP V
GT A6 3500 GT Sebring 228 Ghibli II
Mistral Karif
5000 GT Ghibli Khamsin Shamal 3200 GT Coupé GT
2+2 Mexico
Indy Kyalami
Mid-engine Merak
Bora MC12
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