MASERATI Spyder Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

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.

After being acquired by Ferrari in 1996, Maserati started to pop up on markets with new models, and the 2001 Spyder was one of the finest drop-tops of its time.

Strangely, the Italian automaker introduced the open-top version first, followed by the Coupe in 2002. Both vehicles shared the same platform as the 3200 but with a shorter wheelbase for the Spyder. Thus, Maserati ditched the rear seats and used that space to fully retract the soft top. Another significant progress was found under the hood, where the previous turbocharged 3.2-liter V8 was replaced by a new, naturally aspirated, 4.2-liter engine. That's why many people refer to this model as the 4200, even though the automaker used the Spyder and the Cope nameplates.

With a design signed by Giugiaro, the Spyder featured a low hood with organic lines. The headlights were covered by an aerodynamically shaped glass cover, and the racked windshield was supported by thick A-pillars. The short cabin was ended by a pair of fixed safety arches mounted behind the seats. At the back, the rear fascia was adorned with taillights mounted on the sides, following the rear quarterpanels' shapes.

Even though the cabin looked cramped, it was suitable for those two occupants who could sit inside. The bolstered, leather-wrapped seats were designed for comfortable, long travels. On the dashboard, the automaker installed the instrument cluster in front of the driver, with enough gauges and dials that show the car's engine status. On the center stack, Maserati placed the infotainment unit with a color display for the incorporated navigation system.

The engine provided 390 PS (385 hp) and was paired to a six-speed manual or an automated, single-clutch gearbox with the same number of gears.