2008 Maserati Gran Turismo

OVERVIEW
Now that some proper love and attention has been paid to Maserati by its owners, Ferrari, the marque has been enjoying something of an upsurge. The finest embodiment of which is this, the Gran Turismo, making its West Coast debut. In keeping with a classic GT car, it’s a two-door coupe with cursory rear seats that are only really good for taking whatever luggage couldn’t fit into the trunk.

It’s also gorgeous-looking and powered by a sonorous, Ferrari-sourced V8 engine. Although it’s meant to be a gentleman’s express (based on the same platform as the Quattroporte sedan) rather than a pin-sharp sports machine, the Gran Turismo handles pretty well. Especially for a car so well appointed.

UNDER THE HOOD
4.2-liter V8 405hp @ 7100rpm 339lb-ft @ 4750rpm 0-60mph: 5.1 seconds Top speed: 177mph

WHEN?
To be announced

HOW MUCH?
$114.650

OUR TAKE
It’s the thinking person’s stylish alternative to the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class or the Bentley Continental GT. The 2007 production run is already sold out and only 1400 cars are slated to be built in 2008. Time to pull a few strings.