It may be a luxury car, but the Quattroporte V comes with coil springs and double wishbone suspension at each corner. Most models have Maserati's Skyhook system, which allows the driver to choose between Normal and Sport settings at the touch of a button on the dash. S and GT S models do without the Skyhook system completely and use firmer fixed rate shock absorbers for a firmer ride.
Later GTS gets lowered passive suspension
The GT S also features suspension that is lowered by 10mm at the front and 25mm at the rear, as well as stiffer spring rates and 20-inch alloy wheels. For the standard models, there are 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 245/45 ZR18 front and 285/40 ZR18 rear tyres either from Michelin or Pirelli. GT S versions have 245/35 R20 front and 295/30 R20 rear tyres.
Checking the suspension geometry and alignment is crucial with the Quattroporte to ensure the best handling and tyre care. The car gets through rear tyres very quickly, with many owners reporting 10,000 miles between rear sets in normal use. Also, the steering rack of earlier QP Vs up to 2005 was susceptible to a vague feel in the straight ahead position, though Maserati solved this by better location of the rack. Make sure any car you look at has had this modification.
Skyhook dampers a popular option
The QP's suspension is long lived, especially for a car of this size and power, but listen out for creaks or squeaks on older or higher mileage cars as the bushes wear out. It's not expensive to buy new bushes but labour charges to replace a complete set will be expensive. Make sure the Skyhook system works where fitted as replacement dampers are expensive.
The brakes on most QPs are 330mm front discs and 316mm rears. They last reasonably well, but many owners reckon they are a weak link in the car as they have a lot of work to do to stop a 1,970kg car, especially when it's driven hard. GT S models feature dual-cast discs made of cast iron and aluminium. The idea is to offer stronger braking with better heat dissipation. This set-up also comes with Brembo six-pot calipers.
PHer's view:
"Nothing that large has any right to go like they do! A little bit sensitive but such a lovely place to be as the world goes past very quickly."
Robert Freestone
Buying guide contents:
Introduction
Powertrain
Rolling Chassis
Body
Interior