If sexy could be epitomized in a car, it would undoubtedly be the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible, sleek and elegant in its design with voluptuous curves in all the right places. And what better place to unveil this masterfully created automobile than in Miami, one of the sexiest cities in the world and a haven for luxury automobiles and their enthusiastic collectors.
Previously showcased at its global debut in Frankfurt and in the Maserati corporate facility in New York just last month, the GranTurismo Convertible (also known as the GranCabrio in Europe) blessed the showroom floor of The Collection in Coral Gables on November 3. Modeled from the GranTurismo coupe, the new, improved model represents the true essence of a Maserati: unmistakable style, detailed craftsmanship, driving pleasure and genuine performance. With production beginning in January, the car will be available by March or April in a number of regions nationwide, though New York, Miami, and California are being targeted as key markets.
“The car is really designed like an athlete,” said Jeffrey E. Hoodin, Public Relations Manager and Head of Communications for Maserati North America, “and that’s what we really wanted to do with the convertible, so we kept the wheel base the same, we kept the genuine four seats, but we put an aluminum under tray under the car so the torsional rigidity is only marginally off from what the coupe is. So for the convertible it will still be a very active car, but one you can enjoy out in the sunshine with three of your friends.” And a truly unique convertible it is. Due to the placement of the engine behind the front axle, four full-size adult seats, as opposed to the traditional jump seats, enable maximum comfort while maintaining exceptional handling in line with the Enzo Ferrari.
Besides the global culture in Miami that genuinely understands and appreciates luxury automobiles, Maserati has deep roots in the city that make it a historic and important market for its new release. In 1959, the Miami-based Camoradi (Casner Motor Racing Division) team, created by Lloyd Casner, raced Maserati Birdcages in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Birdcage racing models brought Maserati some of their greatest success.
The Collection has a history with Maserati as well, once believe to be the largest Maserati dealer in the world and is currently still amongst the leaders in the U.S. An exclusive assortment of elite automobiles is housed under their luxury umbrella, including such additional brands as Audi, Porsche, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Lotus.
“At The Collection it’s all about choice,” said President and CEO Ken Gorin, “so it’s exciting to have just one more vehicle available. Last week we had the Porsche Panamera launch. We had a huge event with over 650 people. For the Maserati, it’s a much more exclusive clientele.” Pre-orders are already being taken, and Gorin expects to sell out completely within the first year.
Lucky for us, sunshine and sexy are omnipresent in Miami year-round, so grab your sunscreen and get ready to ride. Style doesn’t get much hauter than this.
Via: The Auto Channel, Maserati
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