2006 Maserati GranSport Spyder Photos, engines & full specs

Maserati produced the Gransport with a retractable rag top so the owner could enjoy sunny days or clear nights under the open sky.

Introduced in 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Spyder came as a natural addition to the lineup, which was launched the previous year as a coupe. Despite the added weight due to the strengthened chassis, the car had the automaker's DNA included in its styling. Moreover, it provided the amenities and the performance of a true Italian thoroughbred.

With its low nose and the broad grille that sported the trident badge in the middle, the GranSport Spyder was an attraction for everyone. Its long hood hinted that there were some muscles underneath it. In addition, the clear lenses over the twin double headlights were similar to the car's coupe sibling. From its profile, the raked windshield was supported by thick A-pillars. Behind the seats, the automaker installed fixed safety arches, which kind of spoiled the car's clear lines. But they were mandatory. The short deck and the vertical rear fascia at the back emphasized the car's sporty character. Last but not least, the quad exhausts that peaked through the rear apron confirmed what the hood hinted at.

The cabin was stuffed with luxurious items such as leather sport bucket seats, a leather-wrapped dashboard, door cards, and steering wheel. Strangely though, the automaker didn't use wood trims but plastic ones. Maserati installed six dials and gauges inside the instrument cluster, plus an array of lights.

Under the hood, the 4.2-liter powerplant was paired with either a six-speed manual or an automated, single-clutch gearbox named Cambiocorsa.