12.05.2009 NOVITEC SUPERCHARGE THE MASERATI GRANTURISMO S

MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE
MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE
MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE
MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE
MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE
MASERATI GRANTURISMO S NOVITEC TRIDENTE

Novitec Tridente has refined the Maserati GranTurismo S: Its newly developed supercharged engine package represents a jump in rated power output of the Maserati V8 engine from the standard 440 hp (323 kW) up to 600 hp (442 kW). With this performance increase, the 2+2-seater coupé now sprints to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 315 km/h. A strikingly styled aerodynamic enhancement package and custom-tailored 20- and 21-inch wheels lend the coupé an even more exclusive appearance. A sporty yet comfortable sport suspension provides more agile handling.

Increasing power output by using compressor technology has been the trademark of Novitec since its inception in 1989. And this has also been implemented by Novitec on sports models from Alfa Romeo and Ferrari. The new Novitec Tridente supercharged engine for the Maserati GranTurismo S continues this tradition.

The combustion air of the 4.7-litre eight-cylinder four-valve per cylinder engine is supercharged by a mechanical cogged-belt-driven charger with a maximum boost pressure of 0.37 bars. The extensive Novitec Tridente Sport compressor conversion further comprises a water-to-air intercooler, a modified intake system and larger injectors. New mapping for the engine electronics ensures maximum power yield, perfect suitability for daily use and compliance with strict Euro IV emission limits.

The Novitec Tridente Sport compressor conversion pricing starts at 23,681 euros (MSRP). The package boosts the power output of the GranTurismo S from standard 440 hp (323 kW) to 600 hp (442 kW). Simultaneously the peak torque grows from 490 Nm to 588 Nm at 5,400 rpm. As a result of this driving performance benefits accordingly: a sprint time of 4.5 seconds from rest to 100 km/h represents an improvement of 0.4 seconds over the production car. And with a sprint time of 14.6 seconds to 200 km/h the tuned 2+2-seater bests its production counterpart by a full 2.6 seconds in this discipline. Top speed grows from 295 to 315 km/h.

Another focal point of the Novitec Tridente program is the car’s exterior. The designers have developed a package that Novitec claims will optimise aerodynamic properties while further emphasising the sporty character of the coupe. All exterior components are optionally available with a clear-coated carbon-fibre finish.

The subtle new Novitec Tridente front spoiler lower lips are attached to both sides of the production front apron. Their sophisticated shapes reduce aerodynamic lift on the front axle at high speeds. New design rocker panels calm the airstream along the sides of the vehicle and give the coupe a longer, sleeker and lower appearance.

At the rear end of the GranTurismo Novitec has continued to make styling changes changes to set the car apart: a subtle lip spoiler mounted on the edge of the lid of the trunk and under the diffuser for the production bumper provide the aerodynamic balance necessary for even better directional stability at high speeds.

Light-alloy wheels are yet another Novitec Tridente custom package result of the development process and will fit all Maserati GranTurismo models. The three-piece wheels with five double spokes are available in various color combinations in size 9Jx20 in front and in size 12.5Jx21 on the rear axle. They fill out the available space beneath the wheel arches perfectly. The optimal high-performance tires come from technology partner Pirelli in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 355/25 ZR 21.

Novitec Tridente sport suspensions allow customers to select their preferred ride height and damper settings. But that’s not all: For further increased day-to-day utility a version is available that raises front and rear axle by 40 millimeters at the push of button. After the driver has thus safely negotiated speed bumps or parking ramps the suspension can be lowered to normal level from the cockpit. If the suspension is not lowered by the driver it’ll revert to the normal level automatically once the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h. Exclusive interior options including a custom-made fully leather interior in any desired color or upholstery round out the Novitec Tridente program.
 

© 2009 Interfuture Media/Italiaspeed