Force-fed drop-top fun just in time for summer.
The Maserati GranCabrio is an open-air Italian work of automotive art that quite possibly provides one of the best convertible experiences ever due to the baritone growl of the V-8. The styling is beautiful as well; aggressive, sleek, and sexy, and one of the few convertibles where the overall design isn’t compromised by a cloth top. Novitec Tridente, the Maserati division of Novitec Rosso GmbH, has taken this winning formula a step further with a supercharger, some carbon fiber bodywork, and new wheels.
The smooth-talking 4.7-liter V-8 that has been scientifically proven to make women weak at the knees gains a new weapon that will make them faint; a supercharger. The engineers at Novitec are supercharger specialists, fitting the go-fast-goodie to a number of different Ferrari and Maserati sportscars. With the Novitec Tridente GranCabrio, the same formula for success applies. A cogged-tooth belt-driven supercharger has been fitted and has a maximum boost pressure of 0.35 BAR (5.08 PSI). To control temperatures, a water-to-air intercooler with dedicated water circuit has been installed. In addition to the supercharger system, a new custom intake manifold and bigger fuel injectors have been installed, while the ECU has been remapped to ensure optimum power, reliability, and emissions. Customers can also choose to equip the GranCabrio with a Novitec Tridente sport exhaust system. The system can be fitted with driver controlled flaps, allowing for the option to produce an intoxicating exhaust note or subdued sound.
After the package is installed, the Novitec Tridente GranCabrio becomes a compelling convertible. Power output is increased by 150 horsepower and 61 lb-ft. of torque over stock for a total of 590 hp at 7,300 RPM and 422 lb-ft. at 5,400 RPM. Acceleration is down from the stock 5.3 seconds to 62 mph to just 4.5 seconds, while top speed is increased from the 176 mph to 187 mph.
Novitec Tridente has also developed a few subtle aerodynamic components that make the Maserati look even better (we didn’t think it was possible until now). The front features two new carbon fiber spoiler lips to reduce lift at the front axle, while a carbon fiber radiator grille highlights the GranCabrio’s aggressive personality. Novitec Tridente has also installed a set of side skirts that run along each side of the convertible and calm the airflow around the car. At the rear a subtle carbon fiber spoiler is fitted to the trunk, while the stock bumper can be equipped with a diffuser and spoiler lip for improved high-speed stability.
Close attention was also paid to the wheel and suspension. Novitec has fitted a staggered set of their three-piece, five double-spoke wheels and Pirelli PZero tires to complete the overall appearance and improve handling. Up front are 9J x 21 wheels with 255/30 ZR 21 tires, while the rear wears a wide set of 11.5J x 22 wheels and 315/25 ZR 22 tires. Engineers have also installed a sport suspension that allows an array of custom height and damper settings. The GranCabrio can also be raised 40 mm to move past speed bumps and other obstacles.
Pricing for the entire Novitec Tridente GranCabrio have not been released. However, the complete supercharger system can be purchased for € 19,900 (+/- 28,000 USD). Customers can also order a customized leather and alcantara interior from Novitec Tridente. All components will also fit the Maserati GranTurismo.
Novitec Tridente GranCabrio Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 4.7 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Supercharged
Maximum Boost Pressure: 0.35 BAR (5.08 PSI)
Maximum Horsepower: 590 (434 kW) at 7,300 RPM
Maximum Torque: 422 lb-ft. (572 Nm) at 5,400 RPM
-Novitec Tridente supercharger system
-Dedicated water-to-air intercooler
-New intake system
-Stainless steel sport exhaust system with optional valve flaps
-Retuned ECU
-Larger fuel injectors
Transmission:
Type: Six-speed automatic
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.5 seconds
Top Speed: 187 mph (301 km/h)
Wheels, Tires, and Suspension:
Wheels: Three-piece, five double-spoke in any color/finish
Front Wheels: 9J x 21
Rear Wheels: 11.5J x 22
Tires: Pirelli PZero Nero
Front Tires: 255/30 ZR 21
Rear Tires: 315/25 ZR 22
Suspension: Height adjustable coilover
Optional: Front end lift system; raises car by 40 mm
Exterior:
-Carbon fiber front spoiler lips
-Carbon fiber radiator grille
-Carbon fiber rear trunk spoiler
-Carbon fiber rear diffuser
-Carbon fiber rear spoiler lips
-Side skirts
Novitec Tridente GranCabrio Gallery
[Source: Novitec Tridente GmbH]
Would you choose the Novitec Tridente Maserati GranCabrio over the Maserati GranTurismo? Leave a comment and let us know!
