2007 Maserati GranSport Spyder

Maserati's L.A. and Detroit auto show stands featured, for the first time in the U.S., the new GranSport Spyder. Not surprisingly, the sporty two-seater is nothing more than a convertible version of the GranSport Coupe. The GranSport designation indicates the fitment of pronounced aerodynamic add-ons, chrome mesh front and rear grille inserts, sexy tailpipes, and multi-spoke nineteen-inch wheels. A 0.4-inch ride height reduction combines with standard Skyhook active suspension to further sharpen the handling of the Spyder. The glorious, Ferrari-sourced 400-hp V-8 is unchanged for GranSport duty, but the Cambiocorsa sequential manual--the only transmission available--has been reprogrammed for 35% faster gear changes.