Will I be happy with a GranSport??

Don't forget that US cars have different software to EU cars, as emissions are measured on different drive cycles. So US cars may have slightly different fuel economy figures.

In my experience the US-version GS uses about the same amount of fuel I've been using in the Granturismo S (Auto) that I've been driving in Europe for the last couple of years, but considerably less than the MC-Shift Granturismo S, and massively less than the original 2005 QP (probably the worst gas guzzler Maser I've ever driven).

 

Why not keep the S4? I ask because I am buying one in April.

 

The S4 is an Awesome car! Just looking for something different.
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that is interesting.

so which system is more strict? or are they equally strict, but just use a different measurement system?

 

Milage wise, I get around 18-20mpg but I try not to use it if I know I'll be sat in traffic most of the time (i.e Central London).

I've not had mine long (07 model) but in the time I've had it, its been great. The sound is intoxcating!

Rob, if you're getting new rims for yours and are looking for a new home for your old OEM rims, let me know what you're looking for $ wise.

Cheers

 

Basically, California emissions are stricter, and they are measured on a different cycle (rpm/load). I am going to import my car to Switzerland, and I was told that Swiss authorities accept California emissions without requiring any further modifications, since CA emissions compliance is good enough to cover for EU regulations too.

 

The GS has side skirts, a different interior, and a different exhaust set up.

 

Yeah, come on, that's the 8-year old schoolboy view (no offense)

It's also important to mention that it has a radically revised suspension setup, 19 inch wheels, much improved brakes and specific engine and gearbox management software. The "different interior" contributes to lowering weight somewhat. A lightweight it is not, but it doesn't fare badly (it's about the same weight as a current generation BMW M3).

 

In addition to the above mentioned by maranello71, the GS has these over the regular 4200:

- new MSP software (Maserati Stability Program, the button next to "Sport")
- Sound/noise protection in the wheel arches!
- Faster gear changes for the Cambiocorsa gearbox (F1) due to better TCU
- Uses a different stereo system ("Infotainment") and has the optional "Auditorioum 200" which includes better speakers, a sub and an amplifier (but the speakers are still low quality since they are made out of paper, not an issue for me because I prefer to listen to the exhaust music).

The GS is a whole new car compared to the 4200.

 

I have a

GS LE in addition to my 360.. it is my daily driver.. as everyone said.. the car offers very little problems.. once n awhile the little odd italian thing might happen when starting the car (same as 360) but honestly no issues

31k miles, clutch still ok everything else ok.. going in for the 30k mile service.. went in few very few warranty issues.. mostly minor stuff that is caused by potholes or god knows what else.. great car.. fast..exotic.. sounds awesome..

 

I just wish I could find one that wasn't in the hands of some buy here pay here highline lot.

 

Rick, Did you find a GS? If so, how do you like it so far?

 

I was wondering the same thing! Also, a quick eBay search showed six GS's all at around $40k. Did the prices go back up?!

 

I ended buying a new 2011 Gran Turismo S. What an amazing car! I am still a fan of the GS. Great car for the money!

 

I never saw them below before now. There are two very nice examples available today, around 20-25k miles for a bit less than 40.

 

I drove the Gran Turismo and it was slower than my BMW M3. Love the car but too slow. I would get the faster Gran Turismo S model. For a DD, its a perfect car. I would have one in a heartbeat - that or Aston Martin or Bentley.

 

http://continentalautosports.com/inventory/details.aspx?id=NLIL0091.1/86402&y=2005&d=Maserati&m=GranSport%20Coupe&tr=

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=303064285

 

that's a lot of car for $40k

 

Rob, what do think of the GS spyder....we would use it as a second fun car that the wife can also drive and use it for weekend get aways also.. do they become too flexy and heavy with the top off??? they do seem to be a lot of car for the money...our other choice is the newer M3 vert with the DCT for the wife to drive also. the m3 would be 2-3 years newer and have cheaper repair and upkeep, but it would also cost a good $15k more....