The Ultimate Battle: Maserati GranTurismo vs. GranCabrio - Petrol vs. Electric Showdown
When it comes to iconic Italian automotive craftsmanship, Maserati always stands out. The newest iteration of the Maserati GranTurismo and its convertible sibling, the GranCabrio, are no exceptions. These beauties represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, wrapped in both petrol and electric powertrains that cater to different tastes but promise one thing - unparalleled performance.
Electric Revolution: Enter the GranTurismo Folgore
Replacing the roar of the traditional engine with the hum of electric motors, the GranTurismo Folgore is Maserati's impressive foray into the electric vehicle (EV) space. This marvel is powered by an 83kWh battery with a unique T-shaped design that seamlessly fits into the car’s architecture.
Boasting three powerful motors – one for each rear wheel and a single unit driving both front wheels—the Folgore achieves an aggregated power figure that leaves one gasping: a theoretical 1200bhp, although it’s capped at a 'modest' 751bhp to preserve battery longevity. This system allows for dynamic torque vectoring, enabling precise control and breath-taking acceleration.
While the Folgore’s WLTP range of 260-278 miles might seem underwhelming in today's 300-mile norm for EVs, it makes up for it with an 800V electrical system. This allows for blisteringly fast charging speeds of up to 270kW, taking the battery from 20% to 80% in just 18 minutes – a speed that can rival the best in the EV field.
Petrol Power: The Dominance of the GranTurismo Trofeo
Yearning for the visceral thrill of a petrol engine? The GranTurismo Trofeo is your muse. Under its long, luxurious bonnet lies a V6 engine borrowed from the Maserati MC20 supercar, tuned to perfection with Formula 1-inspired combustion technology.
This powerhouse delivers 542bhp and a robust 479 lb-ft of torque at a low 3000rpm, allowing for exhilarating thrusts of speed. Coupled with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and a torque-shuffling four-wheel drive system, the Trofeo ensures an engaging driving experience. The rear-mounted trick torque-vectoring limited-slip differential further refines the handling, providing impeccable grip and balanced weight distribution, measured at an impressive 52:48, front to rear.
A Unified Architecture: Beauty in Balance
Both the Folgore and the Trofeo models utilize a similar structural setup, with approximately 65% of the frame made from aluminum. However, the petrol models possess different sills to compensate for rigidity lost in the EV variant, which uses its battery as a stressed chassis component.
Suspension systems, consisting of double-wishbone fronts and five-link rear axles, are paired with height-adjustable air springs. This combination ensures both models can handle the weight variances, with the Folgore tipping the scales at a hefty 2260kg compared to the Trofeo's 1795kg. The GranCabrio models add slightly more weight, but the differences are marginal, only enhancing the structural integrity and ride comfort.
Decisions, Decisions: Which Maserati Reigns Supreme?
Choosing between the Folgore and Trofeo boils down to personal preference. The Folgore's electric charm lies in its instant torque, advanced battery technology, and eco-friendly footprint, making it a tech-savvy enthusiast's dream. Conversely, the Trofeo seduces with its guttural V6 symphony, broader power band, and traditional driving dynamics that purists revere.
Both models symbolize Maserati's commitment to blending heritage with innovation. Whether petrol or electric, GranTurismo or GranCabrio, these models are works of art – designed to deliver spectacular performance while retaining every ounce of class and decadence the Maserati name commands.