The Maserati Coupé and Spyder (Tipo M138) are a series of grand tourers produced by Italian automaker Maserati from 2001 to 2007. The two nameplates refer to the four-seater coupé and two-seater convertible models, respectively. The design of both models was based on the preceding 3200 GT, which was not sold in the US. Due to the confusing nature of the names "Maserati Coupé" and "Maserati Spyder" (which could refer to any coupé or convertible Maserati has made) the Coupé and Spyder are both commonly referred to as the 4200 GT, which is an evolution of the prior model name and a reference to the increase in engine displacement from 3.2 L (3,217 cc) to 4.2 L (4,244 cc).
The Spyder was first unveiled to the public at the 2001 Frankfurt Auto Show with the Coupé's debut following shortly thereafter at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show. Sales in the United States began in March 2002 for the Spyder and in May for the Coupé. The introduction of the Spyder heralded Maserati's return to the North American market after an 11-year hiatus. Almost as soon as it was introduced, the Spyder was selected by Forbes as the Best GT for 2001.
The Coupé and Spyder were designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign, who also designed the Ghibli, mid-engined Bora, Quattroporte III and the 3200 GT as well. Interior design was commissioned to Enrico Fumia and was based heavily on the 3200 GT's interior, restyled in 1999. The cars were built at the Viale Ciro Menotti plant in Modena, Italy. In total, 13,423 cars were produced before being replaced by the GranTurismo.
Design
The Maserati Coupé is a true four-seater capable of comfortably seating two adults in the rear seats. It has a wheelbase of which is about longer than the rival Jaguar XK8 and longer than a Porsche 911 (996). Overall vehicle length is , width is , and height is . Total curb weight is . The design is similar to the preceding 3200 GT but the boomerang shaped taillights were replaced in favour of more conventional units.
The Maserati Spyder is a soft-top convertible and features a top that is electronically operated by a pushbutton on the center console. The top automatically stows beneath a hard cover that sits flush with the body in front of the boot. Both deployment and stowage of the top takes about 30 seconds. Arch-type roll bars are provided behind each seat. The Spyder's wheelbase is shorter than the Coupé's. Overall length is , width , and height . Curb weight is .
In late 2004, the Coupé and Spyder underwent a minor facelift. This meant a new, somewhat larger grille with its lower edge pulled somewhat lower into the lower lip of the front bumper was installed. The Spyder also got a glass rear window in 2003 instead of the standard plastic material. The new grille also features horizontal bars, while the 1963 style oval Maserati logo “Saetta” now mounted on the C-pillars, and a new air outlet (as per GranSport versions) featured with a new rear bumper.
Specifications
The Maserati Coupé and Spyder utilise the same vehicle systems – engine, transmission, suspension, and interior driver and front passenger controls and safety equipment. Their performance specifications are almost identical, with some reviewers claiming that the Coupé has better performance due to its lesser weight and more rigid body structure, while others measured faster performance from the Spyder. Both models came standard with 18 inch alloy wheels that originally had a 15-spoke design, but after 2003 most buyers chose the optional 7-spoke sport wheels which became standard by 2005. Maserati offered sixteen exterior colours, ten shades of leather interior along with the ability to select among colours for various interior details such as the piping and stitching used. Five colours for the Spyder's convertible top were also offered.
Engine
Both models utilize the F136 R V8 belonging to the Ferrari/Maserati F136 engine family; it displaces 4,244 cc and is rated at at 7,000 rpm with a peak torque of at 4,500 rpm.