2010 Maserati Spyder Details

Like its coupe sister, the 2010 Maserati Spyder is larger than it looks in photos, measuring 192 inches long and nearly 73 inches wide over a 115.8-inch wheelbase. Despite the generous sizing, both models are 2+2s with limited back-seat space. They're also fairly heavy at over two tons, thanks partly to all-steel construction, yet Maserati claims the GT coupe does 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds and reaches 177 mph. If one source is right, the Spyder may be little if any slower, as it's tipped to use more lightweight materials, thus offsetting the extra weight of the convertible-top hardware.

We also hear the 2010 Maserati Spyder may come in a sportier version with firmer suspension, stickier tires, and a punched-out 4.7-liter V8. Still, GranTurismo--Maserati's spelling--means grand touring, not sports car, so even a souped-up Spyder won't aspire to Ferrari fire. Rather, it's intended as a comfortable, long-distance convertible with speed enough to satisfy and solid-roof security when you need it. Too bad the top design has so far been hidden in prototype spy photos, but we'll wager it's a three-panel lid that stows quickly--and without stealing too much trunk space.

The 2010 Maserati Spyder should also share the GT coupe's wide scope for personalization--which means something like 19 different paint colors and a dozen or so interior trims involving wood or alloy accents. Smaller automakers like Maserati can afford to offer such choices because they build at a fairly slow pace--and mostly to order. Standard equipment should include all the features expected at six-figure prices, including stability control, navigation system, high-end audio, and automatic climate control. Wheels are 18-inch standard, with 19s optional.

A Notable Feature of the 2010 Maserati Spyder

Once upon a time, Maserati was a fierce foe of Ferrari, which it predates as a company. But for the past 10 years or so, these two famed Italian automakers have been part of the Fiat family, with Ferrari playing big brother to long-struggling Maserati for engineering, production, and marketing smarts. Now, thanks to its turn-of-millennium Coupe, Spyder and Gran Sport models and especially the newest Quattroporte, Maserati is healthier than ever. With sales rising more than tenfold in the last decade to an estimated 7200, calendar 2007 will be Maserati's first profitable year in recent memory.

Fiat has decided that Maserati is strong enough to leave Ferrari's room and bunk with Alfa Romeo, another famed performance brand under this corporate roof. Alfa is plotting a big comeback of its own, with the U.S. looming large in the plans. Under the new order, Alfa and Maserati will collaborate on powertrains and platforms--with Ferrari still lending an occasional hand, no doubt--but go separate ways in design and market coverage. As ever, Alfa will target the higher volume upper-middle segment against various BMW and Mercedes-Benz sedans, coupes and sporty convertibles. Maserati will keep focus on more exclusive cars pitched below Ferraris in price and performance.