PistonHeads Buying Guides: Maserati Index

[BenLowden]

Thinking about buying a Maserati? With an ever growing list of buying guides, let us do the work for you. Our expert research will give you the inside track on your chosen make and model, and, combined with feedback from likeminded PH members, will arm you with the knowledge you need to feel confident you're making the best purchase possible.

Maserati 3200GT: Buying Guide | Browse the Classifieds

Maserati GranTurismo: Buying Guide | Browse the Classifieds

Maserati Quattroporte: Buying Guide | Browse the Classifieds

For our full Buying Guide A - Z Index, click here.

Edited by BenLowden on Friday 24th February 16:36

[HMFO]

Hi Guys,
I am in the process of GranTurismo S 2011. Finding it difficult to decide between the Auto and Auto MC, The car dealers keep saying not touch the MC as the clutch does not last. I am more of city driver and from the forums they advise that it’s a good out of town runner but not for town use, would much appreciate some advice on a MC Auto vs Auto.
Thanks HMFO

[HIS LM]

HMFO said:

Hi Guys,
I am in the process of GranTurismo S 2011. Finding it difficult to decide between the Auto and Auto MC, The car dealers keep saying not touch the MC as the clutch does not last. I am more of city driver and from the forums they advise that it’s a good out of town runner but not for town use, would much appreciate some advice on a MC Auto vs Auto.
Thanks HMFO

Have owned both versions and concur with the above, MC is more exciting to drive and you are in control but they do need a clutch now and again 40,000 miles ish depends on use and they don't like reversing up inclines

The auto is better for city driving but out of town nowhere near as engaging - it's just an auto - you will have more fun with the MC

Solution - buy an MC that's had a recent clutch - job done

[HMFO]

Thanks so much for the advice, I had an Auto on the weekend and loved it. I have tried a MC and hoping to do so tomorrow. You mention the clutch replacement in 40K on the MC, my running in this car would be mostly short trips on the weekend, will this cause a issue for me? And also my drive way to my garage is at a 30 deg slop, which I suppose reversing down hill would not be an issue.
Maintenance and cost of ownership which would you say is better? And also holding value are they the same? Thanks so much for getting back to questions, it was the first time I drove one and it’s great drive.
Best Regards

[HIS LM]

Thanks so much for the advice, I had an Auto on the weekend and loved it. I have tried a MC and hoping to do so tomorrow. You mention the clutch replacement in 40K on the MC, my running in this car would be mostly short trips on the weekend, will this cause a issue for me? And also my drive way to my garage is at a 30 deg slop, which I suppose reversing down hill would not be an issue.
Maintenance and cost of ownership which would you say is better? And also holding value are they the same? Thanks so much for getting back to questions, it was the first time I drove one and it’s great drive.

You're welcome, regarding usage it's not short trips it's the type of short trips (stop/start) and unless the car is a keeper with a decent clutch life this won't be your problem. Reversing downhill is fine much less resistance on the clutch.

Maintenance is the same (unless you need a new clutch already covered this above) the big ticket items are tyres, discs and pads (same on both variants) A good warranty will cover this

You could argue the mc will hold it's value as it is the more desirable drivers car but if you are risk averse the auto is the easy option (if I had a crystal ball lol)
The main thing is both versions are great fun and life is too short whatever you choose enjoy !!!

[HMFO]

I am so sorry for not thanking you for the advice, the system would not let me reply saying new customers can not send messages and to try later, which I have been doing and just managed to get in. I did buy the car and settled for the S auto and not the M/C. It’s fantastic and love the car. Need some advice on Tiers, should I stick with P0’s or go for Michelin Sport 4S?
The advise I am getting is that to go for the sport S4. Any advice would be much appreciated
Thanks HMFO