Quattroporte Duo-select/Auto

19 August 2010

Maserati's flagship model is in its fifth evolution and probably its most exciting and definitely its most complex. Launched in 2004 as a duoselect, the vehicle received large amounts of press coverage, all appraising this new flagship model. Bringing new technology and features to the Maserati brand, this model also brought new levels of comfort, build quality and aspirations. Originally launched as Executive then adding the Excutive GT, both sporting 18" wheels, with optional 19" wheels, more models appeared including Sport GT and the phenominal GTS, these sporting 20" wheels.

Technically this model has also set a new standard for Maserati, incorporating many new features like adaptive headlamps, fully automatic gearbox, in excess of 25 ecu's for controlling various functions, 4.2 and 4.7 V8 wet sump engines, telematics incorporating telephone, television, double glazing, rear electric heater seats and much much more.

In 2006 a new automatic was introduced, with a fully automatic gearbox and subtle updates, including new service schedules and a new engine. Technically this presented a weight distribution problem as the duo select had the gearbox at the rear, whereas the auto gearbox is conventially mounted in the middle, attached to the engine.Performance remained almost unaltered, however with a new wet sump engine (as opposed to dry sump on duo-select) this deadened some of the engine noise, making it a quieter cruiser.

The range has become huge value for money secondhand, however a complete service history is essential as is any invoices to confirm the care the car has had. Regular signs of the age of the these fantastic cars include, worn corners on the rear of the centre console, rattling rear silencers, knocking and creaking from suspension and numerous electrical gremlins all add to these cars character, however they are generally very robust and dont seem to suffer many mechanical problems.