THE GRAN TURISMO'S SIBLING // MASERATI SPYDER

Following the release of their Gran Turismo coupe, fitting neatly between their full sail Quattroporte sedan and two-door Gran Turismo, Masterati has taken a hint from partner company Ferrari and decided to build a hardtop convertible. Likely to be badged the ‘Spyder,’ Maserati’s latest will be roughly the size of a Porsche 911, with a 2+2 layout, similar dimensions and an $100K price tag. Unlike its big brother Gran Turismo, the Spyder will offer open top motoring, with a automated metal roof, folding securely into the trunk of the car. Mounted between the fenders, will be a detuned 4.2 Liter V 8 courtesy of the GT, making a solid 350bhp and topping out around 170mph. Additional bits include a tweaked version of Maserati’s DuoSelect paddleshift tranny and a stiffer suspension setup. Expect the Spyder to make its debut at a major autoshow during the 2009 season // 09.12.2008