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Maserati Quattroporte

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Maserati Quattroporte
Sixth generation Quattroporte
Overview
ManufacturerMaserati
Production1963–1969
1974–1990
1994–present
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door saloon

The Maserati Quattroporte is a four-door sports luxury saloon produced by Italian car manufacturer Maserati. The name translated from Italian literally means "four doors". There have been six generations of this car, with the first introduced in 1963, and the current model launched in 2013.

Quattroporte I (AM107, 1963–1969)

First generation
Overview
Production1963–1969
AssemblyModena, Italy
DesignerPietro Frua[1]
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
RelatedMaserati Mexico
Powertrain
Engine4.1 L V8
4.7 L V8
Transmission5-speed ZF S5 manual
3-speed Borg Warner automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,750 mm (108.3 in)[2]
Length5,000 mm (196.9 in)
Width1,720 mm (67.7 in)
Height1,360 mm (53.5 in)
Kerb weight1,757 kg (3,874 lb)[3]

The original Maserati Quattroporte (Tipo AM107) was built between 1963 and 1969. It was a large saloon car powered by V8 engines—both firsts for a series production Maserati.

History

The task of styling the Quattroporte was given to Turinese coachbuilder Pietro Frua, who drew inspiration from a special Maserati 5000 GT (chassis number 103.060) he had designed in 1962 for Prince Karim Aga Khan.[4] While the design was by Frua, body construction was carried out by Vignale.

Series I (1963–1966)

The Quattroporte was introduced at the October-November 1963 Turin Motor Show,[5] where a pre-production prototype was on the Maserati stand next to the Mistral coupé. Regular production began in 1964. The Tipo 107 Quattroporte joined two other grand tourers, the Facel Vega and the Lagonda Rapide, capable of traveling at 200 km/h (124 mph) on the new motorways in Europe. It was equipped with a 4.1-litre (4,136 cc or 252 cu in) V8 engine, producing 260 hp (194 kW; 264 PS) DIN at 5,000 rpm, and either a five-speed ZF manual transmission or a three-speed Borg Warner automatic on request. Maserati claimed a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The car was also exported to the United States, where federal regulations mandated twin round headlamps in place of the single rectangular ones found on European models.

Between 1963 and 1966, 230 units were made.

Series II (1966–1969)

In 1966, Maserati revised the Tipo 107, adding the twin headlights already used on the U.S. model. A leaf-sprung solid axle took place of the previous De Dion tube. The interior was completely redesigned, including the dashboard which now had a full width wood-trimmed fascia. In 1968 alongside the 4.1-litre a 4.7-litre version became also available (AM107/4700), developing 290 PS (213 kW; 286 hp) DIN. Top speed increased to a claimed 255 km/h (158 mph),[6] making the Quattroporte 4700 the fastest four-door saloon in the world at the time.

Around 500 of the second series were made, for a total of 776 Tipo 107 Quattroportes. Production ended in 1969.[6]

Specifications

Quattroporte 4200 V8 engine

The first generation Quattroporte had a steel unibody structure, complemented by a front subframe. Front suspension was independent, with coil springs and hydraulic dampers. Rear suspension used a coil sprung De Dion tube featuring inboard brakes on the first series, later changed to a more conventional Salisbury leaf sprung solid axle with a single trailing link on the second series. On both axles there were anti-roll bars. Brakes were solid Girling discs all around. A limited slip differential was optional.

Engines

The long lived quad cam, all-aluminium Maserati V8 engine made its début on the Quattroporte. It featured two chain-driven overhead camshafts per bank, 32 angled valves, hemispherical combustion chambers, insterted cast iron wet cylinder liners, and was fed through an aluminium, water-cooled inlet manifold by four downdraught twin-choke Weber carburettors—initially 38 DCNL 5 and 40 DCNL 5 on 4200 and 4700 cars respectively, later changed to 40 DCNF 5 and 42 DCNF 5 starting from December 1968.[3]

Model Engine Peak power Peak torque Top speed
Quattroporte 4200 4,136 cc (252 cu in)
90° DOHC V8		 260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp) at 5500 rpm 370 N⋅m (273 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm 230 km/h (143 mph)
Quattroporte 4700 4,719 cc (288 cu in)
90° DOHC V8		 290 PS (213 kW; 286 hp) at 5200 rpm 410 N⋅m (302 lb⋅ft) at 3500 rpm 255 km/h (158 mph)

Special models 1971 and 1974

s/n 002 Quattroporte V8

In 1971, Karim Aga Khan ordered another special on the Maserati Indy platform. Rory Brown was the chief engineer. It received the 4.9-litre V8 engine (Tipo 107/49), producing 300 PS (221 kW).[7] Carrozzeria Frua designed the car, the prototype of which was displayed in Paris 1971 and Geneva 1972.[8] The car was production ready, even receiving its own chassis code (AM 121), but Citroën used their influence to have Maserati develop the SM-based Quattroporte II instead.[9] Only two vehicles were finished, chassis #004 was sold by Maserati to the Aga Khan in 1974, and the prototype #002 went to the King of Spain, who bought his directly from Frua.[8]

Quattroporte II (AM123, 1974–1978)

Second generation
Rear view of Quattroporte II
Overview
Production1976-1978
AssemblyModena, Italy
DesignerMarcello Gandini at Bertone[1]
Body and chassis
LayoutFront Mid-engine, front-wheel drive
RelatedCitroën SM
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L Tipo AM 114.56.30 V6
Transmission5-speed manual

The second generation Quattroporte, named Maserati Quattroporte II (AM 123), made its world première at the October 1974 Paris Motor Show,[10] followed by an appearance at the later Turin Motor Show. As a result of Citroën's purchase of the Italian company, it was a much different car from its predecessor and its successors: built on an extended Citroën SM chassis, it featured front wheel drive and Citroën's hydropneumatic suspension and swivelling directional headlights. The car had Bertone bodywork, penned by Marcello Gandini. The 1973 oil crisis combined with the collapse of the Citroën/Maserati relationship, made Maserati unable to gain EEC approval for the car. Most of the cars built were sold in the Middle East and in Spain, where such type approval was not necessary.[7]

The front-wheel drive layout and the modest V6 3.0-litre powerplant based on the Citroën SM engine did not attract customers. Its 210 PS (154 kW) at 5,500 rpm was barely enough to propel the 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) car to 200 km/h (124 mph).

In 1974, Citroën had Maserati develop a V8 engine. An SM was used to test this 260 PS (191 kW) engine - the adjustments needed were modest and transformed the SM into a sports car.[11] The bankruptcy of Citroën and Maserati ended the V8's development in 1975.[12]

Maserati made 13 Quattroporte IIs. While the prototype was built in 1974, the succeeding twelve cars were built to order between 1976 and 1978.[7] The nearly stillborn Quattroporte II project was costly for the small company, and the firm reached four billion lire in debt by the end of 1978.[7]

Quattroporte III/Royale (AM330, 1979–1990)

Third generation
Overview
Also called
  • Maserati 4porte
  • Maserati Royale
Production1979–1990
AssemblyModena, Italy
DesignerGiorgetto Giugiaro at Italdesign[1]
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
RelatedMaserati Kyalami
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,800 mm (110 in)
Length4,910 mm (193 in)
Width1,890 mm (74 in)
Height1,385 mm (55 in)
Kerb weight1,780 kg (3,924 lb)

The third generation Maserati Quattroporte (Tipo AM 330) was developed under the Alejandro de Tomaso-GEPI ownership. After the brief parenthesis of the Citroen-era front-wheel drive Quattroporte II, the third generation went back to the classic formula of rear-wheel drive and large Maserati V8 engine. It was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.

History

During 1976, Giorgetto Giugiaro presented two Italdesign show cars on Maserati platforms, called the Medici I and Medici II. The latter, based on Maserati's Kyalami coupé, had features that would make it into the production version of the third-generation Quattroporte.

Maserati Medici II

A pre-production Quattroporte was introduced to the press by Maserati president Alejandro de Tomaso on 1 November 1976,[13] in advance of its début at the Turin Motor Show later that month. It was only three years later though, in 1979, that the production version of the car went on sale.[14][15]

Initially "4porte" badging was used, changed in 1981 to Quattroporte. Two versions of the V8 engine were available: a 4,930 cc one producing 280 PS (206 kW; 276 bhp),[15] and a smaller 4,136 cc engine producing 255 PS (188 kW; 252 bhp)[15]—later 238 hp (177 kW; 241 PS)[citation needed], which was phased out in 1981. The interior was upholstered in leather and trimmed in briar wood. The Quattroporte III marked the last of the hand-built Italian cars; all exterior joints and seams were filled to give a seamless appearance. From 1987 the Royale superseded the Quattroporte.

Maserati Royale

Maserati Royale

On 14 December 1986, 60th anniversary of Maserati as a car manufacturer, De Tomaso presented in Modena the Maserati Royale, a built-to-order ultra-luxury version of the Quattroporte.[16] It adopted a higher compression 4.9-litre engine, putting out 300 PS (221 kW; 296 bhp). Besides the usual leather upholstery and veneer trim, the passenger compartment featured a revised dashboard with analogue clock, four electrically adjustable seats, retractable veneered tables in the rear doors and a mini-bar. Visually the Royale was distinguished by new disc-shaped alloy wheels and silver-coloured side sills. De Tomaso announced a limited run of 120 Royales,[16] but when production ceased in 1990 53 of them had been made.

In all, including the Royale, 2,155 Quattroporte IIIs were produced.[17]

Specifications

Interior of the third generation Quattroporte

The third generation Quattroporte used an all-steel unibody structure. The chassis was related to that of the Maserati Kyalami, in turn derived from the De Tomaso Longchamp and therefore ultimately related to the De Tomaso Deauville luxury saloon. Front suspension was of the double wishbone type, with single coaxial dampers and coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear axle used a peculiar layout very similar to Jaguar independent rear suspension. Each cast aluminium hub carrier was linked to the chassis only by a single lower wishbone, the half shafts doubling as upper control arms, and was sprung by twin coaxial dampers and coil springs units. Rear brakes were mounted inboard, the callipers bolted directly to the housing of the differential. The entire assembly was supported by a bushing-insulated crossbeam. Initially a Salisbury-type limited slip differential was used; in 1984 it was replaced by a more advanced Gleason-licensed Torsen—or "Sensitork" in Maserati parlance.[18]

The engine was an evolution of Maserati's own all-aluminium, four overhead cam V8, fed by four Weber carburettors. The automatic transmission initially used was a three-speed Borg–Warner automatic transmission, soon replaced by a Chrysler A727 "Torqueflite" gearbox. Manual gearboxes were ZF S5 five speeds. When leaving the factory all 4200 Maseratis were originally fitted with Pirelli Cinturato 205VR15 tyres (CN72).

Model Engine type Engine Peak power[19] Peak torque[19] Top speed[19]
Quattroporte 4200 107.21.42 4,136 cc 90° V8 255 PS (188 kW; 252 hp) at 6,000 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 3,200 rpm —
Quattroporte 4900 107.23.49 4,930 cc 90° V8 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 5,600 rpm 390 N⋅m (288 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm 230 km/h (143 mph)
223 km/h (139 mph)*
Royale 107.23.50 4,930 cc 90° V8 300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp) at 5,600 rpm 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) 236 km/h (147 mph)
229 km/h (142 mph)*
* with automatic transmission
Rear view of a Quattroporte III

Coachbuilders

Milanese coachbuilder Carrozzeria Pavesi outfitted several armoured Quattroportes during the 1980s. One of them, a 1983 Blu Sera example nicknamed Calliope, was notably used by President of the Italian Republic Sandro Pertini as official state car during his tenure.[20]

Autocostruzioni SD of Turinese coachbuilder Salvatore Diomante also offered a 65 cm longer limousine version, fully equipped with white leather, "abundant burr walnut", mini-bar, video recorder and many other necessities. The price of the Diomante limousine at its introduction in 1986 was 210 million lire.[17]

Quattroporte IV (AM337, 1994–2001)

Fourth generation
An early Quattroporte 2.8
Overview
Production1994–2001
AssemblyModena, Italy
DesignerMarcello Gandini[1]
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
RelatedMaserati Ghibli
Maserati Shamal
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,650 mm (104 in)
Length4,550 mm (179 in)
Width1,810 mm (71 in)
Height1,380 mm (54 in)
Kerb weight1,543–1,675 kg (3,401.7–3,692.7 lb)[21]

The fourth generation Quattroporte (Tipo AM337) was built from 1994 to 2001. It was built on an evolved and stretched version of the Biturbo saloons' architecture, and used twin-turbocharged V6 and V8 engines respectively from the Maserati Shamal and Ghibli coupés. For this reason the car retained very compact exterior dimensions, and is smaller than any of its predecessors and successors. As the designer's signature angular rear wheel arches gave away, the wedge-shaped aerodynamic (0.31 Cd) body was the work of Marcello Gandini.

Rear of a fourth generation Quattroporte

History

The world première of the fourth generation Quattroporte took place at the April 1994 Turin Motor Show[22] and the car went on sale towards the end of the year. Initially the Quattroporte was powered by twin-turbocharged, 24-valve V6 engines from the Maserati Ghibli. For export markets there was a 2.8-litre unit, producing 284 PS (209 kW; 280 hp) and reaching a claimed top speed of 255 km/h (158 mph). As local taxation strongly penalized cars over two-litre in displacement, Italian buyers were offered a 2.0 L version, which developed a little more power (287 PS or 211 kW) but less torque than the 2.8; on the home market the 2.8 was not offered until a year after its introduction.[23] The cabin was fully upholstered in Connolly leather and trimmed in elm burr veneer.

After having been displayed in December 1995 at the Bologna Motor Show,[24] in 1996 a 3.2-litre twin-turbocharged V8 Quattroporte was added to the range. Derived from the Maserati Shamal's engine, on the Quattroporte this unit developed 336 PS (247 kW; 331 hp) for a claimed top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph). At the same time some minor updates were introduced on all models: new eight-spoke alloy wheels and aerodynamic wing mirrors, and seicilindri or ottocilindri (Italian for "six-" and "eight-cylinders" and) badges on the front wings, denoting which engine was under the bonnet. As standard all three engines were mated to a Getrag 6-speed gearbox, while 4-speed automatic transmissions were available on request with the 2.8 and 3.2 engines—respectively a 4HP22 by ZF and a computer-controlled one by Australian firm BTR.

In July 1997 Ferrari acquired 50% of Maserati S.p.A. from Fiat S.p.A.. Ferrari immediately undertook a renewal of Maserati's dated production facilities, as well as made improvements to the manufacturing methods and quality control. This resulted in the improved Quattroporte Evoluzione, introduced at the March 1998 Geneva Motor Show.[25] It featured 400 all-new or modified parts out of a total 800 main components.[23] Powertrains and performance remained unvaried, save for the adoption of the same BTR trasmission from the 3.2 V8 by the automatic 2.8 V6 model. The Evoluzione no longer had the oval Maserati clock on the dashboard. Outside it was distinguished from the earlier models by details like "V6 evoluzione" or "V8 evoluzione" badges on the front wings and redesigned wing mirrors. Production of the fourth generation Quattroporte ended in May 2001.

Specifications

The Quattroporte was a four-door, five-seater saloon with a steel unibody construction. The overall layout remained unchanged from the Biturbos from which the car descended: longitudinal front engine, rear-wheel drive, all-independent suspension with MacPherson struts upfront and trailing arms at the rear. Despite these similarities the suspension had been re-engineered: rear trailing arms had a tube framework structure like on the Shamal, and together with the limited slip differential were attached to the body via a newly designed tubular subframe.

Engines

Model[23][21] Production period Production number Engine type Engine Peak power Peak torque Top speed
Quattroporte seicilindri 2.0 1994–1998 587 AM573 1,996 cc 90° V6 287 PS (211 kW; 283 bhp) at 6,500 rpm 362 N⋅m (267 lb⋅ft) at 4,250 rpm 260 km/h (162 mph)
Quattroporte Evoluzione 2.0 V6 1998–2001 200
Quattroporte seicilindri 2.8 1994–1998 668 AM574 2,790 cc 90° V6 284 PS (209 kW; 280 bhp) at 6,000 rpm 413 N⋅m (305 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm 255 km/h (158 mph)
Quattroporte Evoluzione 2.8 V6 1998–2001 190
Quattroporte ottocilindri 3.2 1996–1998 415 AM578 3,217 cc 90° V8 336 PS (247 kW; 331 bhp) at 6,400 rpm 450 N⋅m (332 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm 270 km/h (168 mph)
Quattroporte Evoluzione 3.2 V8 1998–2001 340
Total 1994–2001 2,400

Quattroporte V (M139, 2003–2012)

Fifth generation
A 2009 Quattroporte S
Overview
Production2003–2012
AssemblyModena, Italy
DesignerPininfarina
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
PlatformMaserati M139
RelatedMaserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio
Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,064 mm (121 in)
Length
  • 2003–08: 5,052 mm (199 in)
  • 2008–2012: 5,097 mm (201 in)
Width1,895 mm (75 in)
Height1,438 mm (57 in)
Kerb weight
  • 1,930 kg (4,255 lb) (DuoSelect)
  • 1,990 kg (4,387 lb) (automatic)

The fifth generation of the Quattroporte (Tipo M139) was unveiled to the world at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 9 September 2003[26] and made its U.S. première at the 2003 Pebble Beach Concours d'Élégance; production started in 2004. Exterior and interior design was done by Pininfarina. Built on an entirely new platform, it was 50 cm (19.7 in) longer than its predecessor and sat on a 40 cm (15.7 in) longer wheelbase. The same architecture would later underpin the GranTurismo and GranCabrio coupés and convertibles. Initially it was powered by an evolution of the naturally aspirated dry sump 4.2-litre V8 engine, mounted on the Maserati Coupé, with an improved output of 400 PS (294 kW). Due to its greater weight compared to the Coupé and Spyder, the 0-62 mph (0–100 km/h) time for the Quattroporte was 5.2 seconds and the top speed 171 mph (275 km/h).[27]

Over 5,000 Quattroportes were built in 2006.[28]

History

2003–2008

The Maserati Quattroporte was initially offered in only one configuration, equipped with the DuoSelect transmission. The base Quattroporte DuoSelect was recognizable by its chromed grille with horizontal slats; adaptive Skyhook suspension and 330 mm brake disks with four piston callipers all-around were standard. Maserati put emphasis on personalization, offering customers a choice of fifteen exterior paint colours, Poltrona Frau leather upholstery in ten hues, contrasting seat piping and stitching and three types of wood inserts. At the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2005 Maserati introduced the Executive GT and Sport GT trim levels.[29]

Interior of a Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT
Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT
A Maserati centre showing 2012 models of Maserati Quattroporte and a Gran Cabrio on the right side.

The Quattroporte Executive GT was a comfort- and luxury-oriented specification; it came equipped with wood-rimmed steering wheel, an alcantara suede interior roof lining, ventilated, adaptive, massaging rear seats, rear air conditioning controls, veneered retractable rear tables, and curtain shades on the rear windows. The exterior was distinguished by 19 inch eight-spoke ball-polished wheels and chrome mesh front and side grilles.

The Quattroporte Sport GT variant offered several performance upgrades: faster shifting transmission and firmer Skyhook suspensions thanks to new software calibrations, seven-spoke 20 inch wheels with low-profile tyres, cross-drilled brake rotors and braided brake lines. Model-specific exterior trim included dark mesh front and side grilles and red accents to the Trident badges, as on vintage racing Maseratis. Inside there were aluminium pedals, a sport steering wheel and carbon fibre in place of the standard wood inserts.

A new automatic transmission was presented at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2007, with the first cars delivered right after the launch, marketed as Maserati Quattroporte Automatica.[30] As all three trim levels were offered in both DuoSelect and Automatica versions, the lineup grew to six models.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007. Taking further the Sport GT's focus on handling, this version employed Bilstein single-rate dampers in place of the Skyhook adaptive system. Other changes from the Sport GT comprised a lowered ride height and 10 mm wider 295/30 rear tyres, front Brembo iron/aluminium dual-cast brake rotors and red-painted six piston callipers. The cabin was upholstered in mixed alcantara and leather, with carbon fibre accents; outside the door handles were painted in body colour, while the exterior trim, the 20 inch wheels and the exhaust pipes were finished in a "dark chrome" shade.[31]

At the 2008 NAIAS Maserati launched the Quattroporte Collezione Cento, a 100-examples limited edition.[32] Its unique specification featured an ivory paint colour with a waist coachline, matched to Cuoio tan tufted leather upholstery and Wengé trim inlaid with mother of pearl. Standard equipment comprised most of the available infotainment optionals.

2008–2012

Images of the facelifted Quattroporte appeared on the Internet on 30 January 2008; the car made its official début at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Overseen by Pininfarina, the facelift brought redesigned bumpers, side sills and side mirrors, a convex front grille with vertical bars instead of horizontal, new headlights and tail lights with directional bi-xenon main beams and LED turn signals. Inside there was a new navigation and entertainment system. All Quattroporte models now used the ZF automatic transmission, the DuoSelect being discontinued.

The 4.2-litre Quattroporte now came equipped with single-rate damping comfort-tuned suspension and 18 inch wheels. Debuting alongside it was the Quattroporte S, powered by a wet-sump 4.7-litre V8, the same engine of the Maserati GranTurismo S, with a maximum power of 430 PS (316 kW; 424 hp) and maximum torque of 490 N⋅m (361 lb⋅ft). In conjunction with the engine, the braking system was upgraded to cross-drilled discs on both axles and dual-cast 360 mm rotors with six piston callipers at the front. Skyhook active damping suspension and 19 inch V-spoke wheels were standard. Trim differences from the 4.2-litre cars were limited to a chrome instead of titanium-coloured front grille. Production of the restyled vehicle started in June 2008 as Model Year 2009.

Sport GT S at Goodwood 2009

The Quattroporte Sport GT S was premièred at the North American International Auto Show in January 2009.[33] Its 4.7-litre V8 produced 440 PS (324 kW; 434 hp), ten more than the Quattroporte S, thanks to revised intake and to a sport exhaust system with electronically actuated bypass valves. Other mechanical changes were to the suspensions, where as on the first Sport GT S single-rate dampers took place of the Skyhook system, ride height was further lowered and stiffer springs were adopted. The exterior was distinguished by a specific front grille with convex vertical bars, black headlight bezels, red accents to the Trident badges, the absence of chrome window trim, body colour door handles and black double oval exhaust pipes instead of the four round ones found on other Quattroporte models. Inside veneers were replaced by "Titan Tex" composite material and the cabin was upholstered in mixed Alcantara and leather.

A special edition GT S was introduced at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show: the Quattroporte Sport GT S Awards Edition, celebrating the 56 awards received by the sixth generation Quattroporte during its career.[34] Its unique specification comprised "Nero pianoforte" or specially-developed pale gold "Quarzo fuso" pearlescent paint, satin grey wheels, polished brake callipers and all chrome trim in a dark finish.

Specifications

Rear of the pre-facelift Quattroporte V
4.2-litre V8 in a DuoSelect car
The tyre, ring and brake style of Quattroporte

The Quattroporte body is a steel unibody, with aluminium boot lid and engine bonnet; Cd is 0.35.[35] Front and rear aluminium subframes support the whole suspension and drivetrain.

A 47%/53% front/rear weight distribution[26] was achieved by setting the engine behind the front axle, inside the wheelbase (front-mid-engine layout) and the adoption of a transaxle layout. With the later automatic transmission - fitted in the conventional position in block with the engine - weight distribution changed to 49%/51% front/rear. The suspension system consists of unequal length control arms with forged aluminium arms and hub carriers, coil springs and anti-roll bars on both axles.

Transmissions

The DuoSelect electro-actuated transmission available at the launch of the fifth generation Quattroporte was a development of the CambioCorsa unit first used in the Maserati Coupé. It was a Ferrari-based semi-automatic transmission, mounted at the rear axle in block with the differential in a transaxle layout, with the twin-plate dry clutch located in a bell housing attached to the rear of the engine. A torque tube joined rigidly together the two units. Gear shifting was done via the standard paddle shifters behind the steering wheel; there was no gear lever on the centre tunnel, but rather a small T-shaped handle used to quickly engage first gear and reverse when manoeuvring at slow speed.

The 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission was a 6HP26 supplied by ZF Friedrichshafen. Unlike the DuoSelect it was placed in the conventional position right behind the engine; to accommodate it and the new rear differential the front and rear subframes as well as part of the transmission tunnel had to be redesigned. Manual shifting was possible by the centre-console mounted gear lever; in addition Sport GT cars came equipped with paddle shifters as standard, while on other models they were an optional extra.

All Quattroporte models were fitted with a limited slip differential.

Engines

The V8 engines of the fifth generation Quattroporte belonged to the "Ferrari-Maserati F136" family; they had aluminium-silicon alloy block and heads, a crossplane crankshaft, four valves per cylinder driven by two overhead camshafts per bank and continuous variable valve timing on the intake side. F136S 4.2-litre engines in DuoSelect equipped cars used a dry sump lubrication system; F136UC 4.2-litre engines on automatic cars were converted to use a wet sump oiling system,[36] as did the later 4.7-litre, codenamed F136Y.

Model[35][37] Production period Production numbers Engine Max power Torque Top speed 0–100 km/h
0–62 mph 		CO2 emissions
(NEDC combined)
Quattroporte DuoSelect 2004–2008 10,639 4,244 cc V8 400 PS (294 kW; 395 bhp) at 7000 rpm 451 N⋅m (333 lb⋅ft) at 4500 rpm 275 km/h (171 mph) 5.2 s N/A
Quattroporte Automatica 2007–2008 6,050 4,244 cc V8 400 PS (294 kW; 395 bhp) at 7000 rpm 460 N⋅m (339 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm 270 km/h (168 mph) 5.6 s N/A
Quattroporte Sport GT S 2007–2008 667 4,244 cc V8 400 PS (294 kW; 395 bhp) at 7000 rpm 460 N⋅m (339 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm 270 km/h (168 mph) 5.6 s N/A
Quattroporte 2008–2012 2,021 4,244 cc V8 400 PS (294 kW; 395 bhp) at 7000 rpm 452 N⋅m (333 lb⋅ft) at 4750 rpm 270 km/h (168 mph) 5.6 s 345 g/km
Quattroporte S 2008–2012 4,032 4,691 cc V8 430 PS (316 kW; 424 bhp) at 7000 rpm 490 N⋅m (361 lb⋅ft) at 4750 rpm 280 km/h (174 mph) 5.4 s 365 g/km
Quattroporte Sport GT S 2009–2012 1,847* 4,691 cc V8 440 PS (324 kW; 434 bhp) at 7000 rpm 490 N⋅m (361 lb⋅ft) at 4750 rpm 285 km/h (177 mph) 5.1 s 365 g/km
Total 2003–2012 25,256 * Including 126 Quattroporte Sport GT S Awards Edition

Coachbuilders

A Bellagio Fastback at Salon Privé 2012

Bellagio Fastback Touring

In 2008, at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, Milanese coachbuilder Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera unveiled the Maserati Bellagio Fastback Touring, a 5-door station wagon built on the basis of the fifth generation Quattroporte.[38] In May 2013 a Bellagio Fastback was auctioned by RM Auctions at their Villa Erba event, in occasion of Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este; the price was 117,600 €.[39] According to the auction house, four examples have been built by Carrozzeria Touring.[40]

Motorsport

In 2009 Swiss Team announced the development of "Maserati Quattroporte EVO" International Superstars Series racing cars based on the 4.2-litre Quattroporte M139, to be piloted by Andrea Chiesa.[41] Swiss Team fielded the cars in the 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 seasons; Italian racing driver Andrea Bertolini won the 2011 championship at the wheel of a Swiss Team Quattroporte.[42]

Quattroporte VI (M156, 2013–present)

Sixth generation
Overview
Production2012–present
Model years2013–present
AssemblyItaly: Grugliasco, Turin (Giovanni Agnelli plant)
DesignerLorenzo Ramaciotti
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive / four-wheel-drive
RelatedMaserati Ghibli (M157)
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission8-speed ZF 8HP70 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,171 mm (124.8 in)
Length5,262 mm (207.2 in)
Width1,958 mm (77.1 in)
Height1,481 mm (58.3 in)
Kerb weight1,890 kg (4,167 lb)

The current sixth-generation Quattroporte was introduced in early 2013. With a 3,171 mm (124.8 in) wheelbase it is a considerably larger vehicle than any of its predecessors, to set itself apart from the smaller Maserati Ghibli, which shares its underpinnings. Engine choice includes twin-turbocharged V6 and V8 petrol engines, as well as a turbodiesel.

History

Development

The new model was designed at a special Maserati-only department within the Fiat Group Centro Stile design centre, under the guidance of ex-Pininfarina designer Lorenzo Ramaciotti.[citation needed] Drivetrains, platform, suspension, and body elements such as the front doors[44] are common to the Quattroporte and the smaller Ghibli saloon, which sits on a 173 mm (6.8 in) shorter wheelbase. The Quattroporte is built at the Officine Maserati Grugliasco plant in Grugliasco, near Turin, dedicated to Giovanni Agnelli; this former Bertone plant was acquired by Fiat S.p.A. in 2009 and renovated for production of the two Maserati saloons.[45]

Launch

The current sixth-generation Quattroporte was revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2013. Production had started in November 2012.[46] Initially the range included the V8 twin-turbo, rear-wheel drive Quattroporte GTS and the V6 twin-turbo, Quattroporte S, available with Q4 all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive depending on the market. The flagship GTS can be distinguished from its trapezoidal instead of round tail pipes. A V6 turbodiesel model for European markets was introduced in September 2013 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.[47]

Quattroporte Zegna limited edition

Rear three quarters view of a Quattroporte GTS

After a preview as a concept car at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show,[47] a total of 100 Quattroporte Zegna were produced for 2014 in collaboration with Italian fashion house Ermenegildo Zegna.[48] The cars feature a platinum-metallic silk paint colour with aluminium pigments, and an interior upholstered in a special fabric which emulates that of Zegna suits.

2015

At the November 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show Maserati introduced the model year 2015 range.[49] The Quattroporte GTS received mild cosmetic updates, such as new multi-spoke forged alloy wheels, colour-matched lower bodywork, and red-accented Maserati logos, while all models were given upgraded standard equipment and ampler trim choice.[49]

Specifications

Body and chassis

The Quattroporte uses a mixed steel and aluminium unibody chassis. Front and rear crash structures, the shock towers, the front wings, all four doors, the engine bonnet and the boot lid are aluminium. Front suspension uses unequal length wishbones with a forged aluminium upright/hub carrier, and an anti-roll bar; rear suspension is a 5-link, with four aluminium links and a larger, steel fifth lower arm that also serves as spring seat. A front aluminium subframe supports the engine by two mounting points, the steering rack and the lower suspension arms. A rear subframe, made of steel, houses the differential and supports all five suspension links.

Engines and performance

The range comprises two petrol engines, a 3.8-litre 90° V8 producing 523 bhp (390 kW; 530 PS) and a 3.0-litre 60° V6 producing 404 bhp (301 kW; 410 PS), 2,979 cc (182 cu in);[50][51] both use a turbocharger per cylinder bank, twin intercoolers and are direct injection. The petrol engines are designed and assembled by Ferrari. V6 engine blocks are cast and machined to Ferrari's specifications respectively in Chrysler's Kokomo, Indiana and Trenton Engine Plant, then shipped to Modena (Italy) for assembly by Ferrari.[52] A diesel engine is also available, a 275 PS (202 kW; 271 bhp) 3.0-litre V6 with a single variable geometry turbocharger, designed and built by FCA's subsidiary VM Motori. By 2018, the Quattroporte S Q4 will be upgraded to produce 450 bhp (336 kW; 456 PS) from its V6, and the GTS to produce 560 bhp (418 kW; 568 PS) horsepower from its V8, both with all-wheel drive (for the V8 to increase performance).[53] The 2014 Quattroporte GTS accelerated from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds and ran the 1/4 mile in 12.7 seconds in Car and Driver's December, 2014 road test.[54]

Model Engine Peak power Peak torque Drive Top speed 0–100 km/h
0–62 mph 		CO2 emissions
Petrol engines
Quattroporte S 2,979 cc V6 twin-turbo 410 PS (302 kW; 404 bhp) at 5500 rpm 550 N⋅m (406 lb⋅ft) between 1750–5000 rpm RWD 285 km/h (177 mph) 5.1 s 244 g/km
Quattroporte S Q4 2,979 cc V6 twin-turbo 410 PS (302 kW; 404 bhp) at 5500 rpm 550 N⋅m (406 lb⋅ft) between 1750–5000 rpm AWD 283 km/h (176 mph) 4.9 s 246 g/km
Quattroporte GTS 3,798 cc V8 twin-turbo 530 PS (390 kW; 523 bhp) between 6500–6800 rpm 650 N⋅m (479 lb⋅ft) between 2000–4000 rpm
overboost: 710 N⋅m (524 lb⋅ft)		 RWD 307 km/h (191 mph) 4.7 s 274 g/km
Diesel engines
Quattroporte Diesel 2,987 cc V6 turbo 275 PS (202 kW; 271 bhp) at 4000 rpm 600 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft) between 2000–4000 rpm RWD 250 km/h (155 mph) 6.4 s 163 g/km

Transmission

All engines are mated to a ZF-supplied 8HP70 8-speed automatic gearbox,[55] with four-wheel drive available on the V6 in left-hand drive markets only.

The V6 four-wheel drive Q4 drivetrain is the same as that in the Ghibli.[56] Attached to the end of the 8-speed transmission is a transfer case, containing an electronically controlled multi-plate wet clutch, which sends power through a drive shaft to an open differential bolted to the oil pan. During normal operation the car is rear-wheel drive only; when needed the system can divert up of 50% of engine torque to the front wheels.[57]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ a b c d "Designer". ajovalo.net. Retrieved 8 February 2012.
  2. ^ Cardew, Basil (1966). Daily Express Review of the 1966 Motor Show. London.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  3. ^ a b Maserati Quattro Porte AM 107 Mexico AM 112—Uso e manutenzione (Owner's manual), Officine Alfieri Maserati S.p.A.
  4. ^ "Quattroporte I (1st Series) - 1963 to 1966". Maserati official site—About us: Heritage. Retrieved 19 April 2015.
  5. ^ "Novità e prezzi". La Stampa (in Italian). 30 October 1963. p. 5. Retrieved 19 April 2015.
  6. ^ a b Tabucchi 2003, p. 253.
  7. ^ a b c d Tabucchi 2003, pp. 288–289.
  8. ^ a b Cozza, Ermanno. "Quattroporte II: A brief return with French flavouring!". Enrico's Maserati Pages. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  9. ^ "Frua Maserati Quattroporte 'Aga Kahn' (sic)". coachbuild.com. Atelier Michiel van den Brink. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  10. ^ "La Maserati di Bertone". Stampa Sera (in Italian). 2 October 1974. p. 11. Retrieved 8 February 2015.
  11. ^ "The lost prototype reborn, the Citroen SM V8". auto trader classics. Retrieved 27 November 2014.
  12. ^ Sonnery, Marc (27 September 2010). "1974 Citroën SM V8: A Mystery No More". Autoweek. Retrieved 27 November 2014.
  13. ^ Bernabò, Ferruccio (2 November 1976). "De Tomaso: come sono riuscito a rimettere in piedi l'Innocenti". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 15. Retrieved 28 January 2015.
  14. ^ Rogliatti, Gianni (21 July 1979). ""Quattroporte", grande berlina della Maserati". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 21. Retrieved 28 January 2015.
  15. ^ a b c Auto Katalog 1983. Stuttgart: Vereinigte Motor-Verlage GmbH & Co. KG. 1982. pp. 107, 220–221.
  16. ^ a b Fenu, Michele (19 December 1986). "De Tomaso punta sulla qualità". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 17. Retrieved 28 January 2015.
  17. ^ a b Tabucchi 2003, pp. 292–293.
  18. ^ "La ruota che slitta non è più un guaio". La Stampa (in Italian). 6 April 1984. p. 15. Retrieved 28 January 2015.
  19. ^ a b c Mella, Dario (November 2015). "Guida all'acquisto: Maserati Quattroporte—Sotto il vestito... Budget". Automobilismo d'Epoca (in Italian). 13 (11). Edisport editoriale S.r.l.: 44–57.
  20. ^ Romano, Antonio (2013). Tutte le auto dei Presidenti [All of the Presidents' cars] (in Italian). Rome: Gangemi Editore. p. 176. ISBN 88-492-2626-8.
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  22. ^ G. M. (21 April 1994). "Quattroporte per sognare". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 35. Retrieved 5 April 2015.
  23. ^ a b c Tabucchi 2003, pp. 332–335, 357.
  24. ^ Rogliatti, Gianni (7 December 1995). "Maserati, lusso e sprint". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 43. Retrieved 5 April 2015.
  25. ^ Fenu, Michele (4 March 1998). "Testore: «Una sfida mondiale»". La Stampa (in Italian). p. 15. Retrieved 5 April 2015.
  26. ^ a b "Maserati Quattroporte". September 2004. Retrieved 26 November 2014.
  27. ^ Carr, Jimmy (6 May 2007). "Maserati Quattroporte". driving.timesonline.co.uk. London. Retrieved 8 Jun 2008.
  28. ^ "Maserati Quattroporte at Detroit Motor Show". Scoop NZ. 9 January 2007.
  29. ^ Newton, Richard (19 August 2005). "Maserati Quattroporte GT". automobilemag.com. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
  30. ^ "Maserati Quattroporte Automatica Now Shipping". sybarites.org. 13 January 2007. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  31. ^ Aucock, Richard (12 November 2007). "Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S (2007) CAR review". carmagazine.co.uk. Retrieved 17 November 2014.
  32. ^ Siler, Steve (January 2008). "2008 Maserati Quattroporte Collezione Cento". caranddriver.com. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
  33. ^ Kurczewski, Nick (14 January 2009). "Riding Out a Recession in Italian Luxury". nytimes.com. Retrieved 16 November 2014.
  34. ^ Gall, Jared (February 2010). "2011 Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Awards Edition". caranddriver.com. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
  35. ^ a b Maserati Quattroporte 2003 (Official brochure), 2003
  36. ^ "Maserati media" (Press release). 6 March 2007.
  37. ^ Maserati Quattroporte Automatic (Owner's manual), Maserati S.p.A., September 2008
  38. ^ "Villa d'Este 08 Preview: Carrozzeria Touring Maserati Quattroporte Bellagio Fastback". autoblog.com. 22 April 2008. Retrieved 20 November 2014.
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  40. ^ Villa Erba, 25 May 2013 (Auction catalogue), RM Auctions, pp. 21–23
  41. ^ Joseph, Noah (13 April 2009). "MSwiss Team takes Maserati Quattroporte to the track in Superstar Series". autoblog.com. Retrieved 26 November 2014.
  42. ^ Joseph, Noah (25 October 2011). "Maserati claims title in Superstars Series with Quattroporte Evo". autoblog.com. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
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References

  • Tabucchi, Maurizio (2003). Maserati: The Grand Prix, Sports and GT cars model by model, 1926–2003. Milano: Giorgio Nada Editore S.r.l. ISBN 88-7911-260-0.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: ref duplicates default (link)
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