A Road-Going GT Deeply Reflecting Race-Tuned Technology and Ideas

When one thinks of Maserati, keywords like sophistication or flair might come to mind. In any case, the impression is that they value a certain refinement, as if veiled, rather than overtly projecting passion.

Since the 1960s, Maserati has been dedicated to developing sporty yet luxurious production cars, but its origins lie entirely in racing. Their success in F1 during the 1950s, in particular, made their name renowned worldwide. Going back further, they consistently developed engineering that fused overwhelming technological prowess with unique ideas, such as the "Birdcage," considered the most beautiful racing chassis, and the V16 supercharger, a landmark in automotive history.

Added: An in-car report movie by Satoshi Watanabe, who wrote this test drive review, and footage shot from the driver's perspective!

Fastest in Maserati Production Car History!

MC stands for Maserati Corse, meaning Maserati Racing, and as the Italian word "Stradale" indicates "street," this model is the most Spartanly tuned Granturismo for road use. To give you an idea of the specs, its top speed exceeds 300 km/h, and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, making it the fastest in the company's production model history.

However, compared to other cars that call themselves road-going racers, these figures might seem somewhat mild. What is Maserati's compromise between racing and street? This is reflected in the interior appointments.

A More Luxurious Interior Than the Base Model

The driver's area of the test car, finished in Maserati's corporate color of dark blue, features extensive use of Alcantara for a less slippery feel compared to the base Granturismo S. The combination with real leather is meticulously crafted, with no compromises. The rear seats, removed to achieve the 110 kg weight reduction, are also carefully upholstered with Alcantara along with the trim, maintaining continuity with the front. Settling into the bucket seats, which offer moderate support and recline, and looking at the dashboard with its crisp white stitching, one finds a world that, despite being called a racer, might even appear more luxurious than the base model.

An Exhilarating Exhaust Note

And within the cabin, the exhaust sound can be heard at an appropriate volume without significantly hindering conversation with a passenger.

Surprisingly Supple and Refined Ride Quality

The MC Stradale features a transaxle layout, separating the transmission from the engine and placing it at the rear axle, resulting in a slightly rear-biased weight distribution. Its traction is immense, and the specially tuned Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires firmly convert this into forward propulsion. The suspension, also specially tuned and lowered by 10 mm compared to the Granturismo S, appears to effectively control body movements during acceleration, braking, and cornering.

Yet, at normal speeds, such as navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, this suspension exhibits no unpleasant vibrations or harsh impacts. The standard carbon-ceramic brake system dramatically reduces unsprung weight, positively impacting ride comfort. While this effect is well-known, even accounting for it, the suspension is exceptionally supple for a car that calls itself a road-going racer. It's no exaggeration to say that the MC Stradale offers the most refined ride quality within the Granturismo series.



The high stability, among the best for an FR sports car, thanks to its large dimensions, is maintained, and this supple ride quality is added. True to its origins, the MC Stradale ensures GT performance without compromise, but how much has it refined its signature race-spec handling? To find out, one doesn't need to go to a circuit; familiar winding roads are more than sufficient.

The MC Stradale's excellent visibility, thoughtfully designed for maneuverability, makes even Japanese mountain roads feel spacious. It effortlessly climbs roads that are far from perfectly maintained. While many adjectives could be used, the word "effortlessly" truly fits its smooth and agile movements.

Maserati Sports Cars Are Stylish

The solid mechanical grip, abundant information from the steering, and linear body roll, though modest, provide clear feedback on the car's condition, allowing the driver to control it with confidence. This positive cycle likely contributes to its refreshing impression. Contrary to the image of an Italian supercar, especially one derived from racing, the MC Stradale's driving foundation is built on gentleness and depth.



Of course, there are other cars that can achieve faster absolute lap times. However, we don't choose a sports car solely to drive faster than anyone else on a circuit with a grimace. We choose a sports car to spend fulfilling time in a slightly different realm. The MC Stradale's character is likely shaped by the pride of satisfying such discerning customers. When Maserati interprets a road-going racer, the result is, ultimately, something stylish.

MASERATI GRANTURISMO MC STRADALE│
Maserati Granturismo MC Stradale
Body Dimensions│Overall Length 4,935 × Width 1,915 × Height 1,345 mm
Wheelbase│2,940 mm
Vehicle Weight│1,850 kg
Engine│4.7-liter V8 DOHC 4-valve
Maximum Output│331 kW (450 PS) / 7,000 rpm
Maximum Torque│510 Nm (52.0 kgm) / 4,750 rpm
Fuel Economy｜14.4 L / 100 km
CO2 Emissions｜337 g/km
Price│21,125,000 yen
*Fuel economy and CO2 emissions are based on UK data.

Maserati Call Center
0120-965-120