What do i get 3200 or 4200???
Discussion
Hi guys im looking for a bit of help...my car is changing and im looking for somthing different but practical (seat for a kid in the back) somthing a little more unique shall we say, there are tons of porkers and ferraris which leads me to Maserati.
I have never had the opportunity to drive either of these vehicles yet but i plan to do so in the coming weeks. Basically looking for owners to tell me what there like as everyday cars and what the servicing and known troubles are.
Hope you guys can help.
I have never had the opportunity to drive either of these vehicles yet but i plan to do so in the coming weeks. Basically looking for owners to tell me what there like as everyday cars and what the servicing and known troubles are.
Hope you guys can help.
Sorry to disagree...
The 4200 is a much-better engineered car, as it (logically) builds on the learnings from the 3200. The dry-sump Ferrari-engineered V8 is in another league. On top of that, the 3200 has extra servicing costs (e.g., cambelt replacement). As an owner of a 4200 myself, I would have no doubts. In the same way I would have no doubts between the 4200 and the GranSport (my next car).
Of course, the boomerang lights are quite nice and distinctive, and Maserati has not really taken much time in the redesign of the interior (they look very much the same). But the 4200 is a better car.
Go for a CC, forget SatNav (OEM is crap, IMHO), have a good all-round check, and (if buying used) ask (and I would rather say demand) for clutch wear figures, and if the clutch and/or F1 pump were replaced, and when. Look at the leather hide, esp. seats, for scuffs and other wear-and-tear damage (leather in a Maser is not as tough as that found, e.g., in BMWs, Mercs or Porkas). What else? Check suspension (esp. back-end bushes tend to wear quickly) and of course, check it's overall service history, as with every car.
And enjoy!
Ed
The 4200 is a much-better engineered car, as it (logically) builds on the learnings from the 3200. The dry-sump Ferrari-engineered V8 is in another league. On top of that, the 3200 has extra servicing costs (e.g., cambelt replacement). As an owner of a 4200 myself, I would have no doubts. In the same way I would have no doubts between the 4200 and the GranSport (my next car).
Of course, the boomerang lights are quite nice and distinctive, and Maserati has not really taken much time in the redesign of the interior (they look very much the same). But the 4200 is a better car.
Go for a CC, forget SatNav (OEM is crap, IMHO), have a good all-round check, and (if buying used) ask (and I would rather say demand) for clutch wear figures, and if the clutch and/or F1 pump were replaced, and when. Look at the leather hide, esp. seats, for scuffs and other wear-and-tear damage (leather in a Maser is not as tough as that found, e.g., in BMWs, Mercs or Porkas). What else? Check suspension (esp. back-end bushes tend to wear quickly) and of course, check it's overall service history, as with every car.
And enjoy!
Ed
"Of course, the boomerang lights are quite nice and distinctive, and Maserati has not really taken much time in the redesign of the interior (they look very much the same)"
re: lights.... this is a topic that comes up loadson the Masers....is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
re: lights.... this is a topic that comes up loadson the Masers....is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
Not something I would attempt, as there are size differences in the bodywork so the retrofit is not quite 1:1. But you're right, I have heard lot's of comments about getting the back-end of a 4200 in 3200 style, but have not seen one to date. Proof of concept it's not that easy is that (to my knowledge) none of the well-known aftermarket suppliers of upgrade kits (e.g., DIMEX - Leo Nardo) does provide this bodywork change as an option.
And in any case, it would really be expensive (not plug-and-play, as I said above) so dunno if really worth it. Better spend your dosh in new exhausts, for example, things which do really enhance the driving experience.
And in any case, it would really be expensive (not plug-and-play, as I said above) so dunno if really worth it. Better spend your dosh in new exhausts, for example, things which do really enhance the driving experience.
Edited by troesma on Friday 28th July 12:38
nightmare said:
"Of course, the boomerang lights are quite nice and distinctive,
re: lights is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
re: lights is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
The tail lights on a 32 are as the original designers concept. The 42 would have had them if the Americans had taste! They were only changed on the 42 because the yanks didn't like them and that is massers biggest market. It had nothing to do with cost.
re 32 versus 42, the 32 is the car that came from the design house. The 42 is the americanised version of that car. It is "perhaps" more user friendly however I think that cutting edge design/cars are not aimed at being user friendly. the 32 is the car which rejuvenated masser and put them back on the map, the 42 is the car which is aimed at making them profitable. You pays your money you takes your choice. Having driven both and sufficient finances to choose I wouldn't swop my 32 for a 42 anytime in the near future, maybe in the future when I get a bad back or cant stand a turbo kick any longer I'll change my mind?
ps you can get them retro fitted but I think it costs upwards of 5k
I think from reading articles the rear lights were changed to suit the american market?
So am i getting the impression the 3200 looks better but the 4200 is a "better car"
Can i ask about servicing whats the average cost to run this vehicle over a year? Im taking it you get about 12-15mpg? This will be slightly worse than an XKR Cabrio i used to own.
thanks
So am i getting the impression the 3200 looks better but the 4200 is a "better car"
Can i ask about servicing whats the average cost to run this vehicle over a year? Im taking it you get about 12-15mpg? This will be slightly worse than an XKR Cabrio i used to own.
thanks
nightmare said:
"Of course, the boomerang lights are quite nice and distinctive, and Maserati has not really taken much time in the redesign of the interior (they look very much the same)"
re: lights.... this is a topic that comes up loadson the Masers....is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
re: lights.... this is a topic that comes up loadson the Masers....is tehre no way of getting them retrofitted to the newer cars? I believe maserati stopped doing them cos of cost? surely someone does an after market version?
You Can according to Meridien Maserati but it will cost circa £8,000 according to their service dept.
barrieeld said:
So am i getting the impression the 3200 looks better but the 4200 is a "better car"
Depends on what you want it for and your personal taste. I prefer my fun car to be un tamed and a little rougher round the edges when it comes to driving.
barrieeld said:
Can i ask about servicing whats the average cost to run this vehicle over a year? Im taking it you get about 12-15mpg? This will be slightly worse than an XKR Cabrio i used to own.
thanks
2.5k will cover servicing and tyres for a year. If something major goes wrong then..... Oh I dont like to think about it
3200gt said:
The tail lights on a 32 are as the original designers concept. The 42 would have had them if the Americans had taste! They were only changed on the 42 because the yanks didn't like them and that is massers biggest market. It had nothing to do with cost.
True to a certain degree, there were also US car safety compliance issues involved. As said above, I very much like the boomerang lights, but (many) others do not. Your money, your choice!
3200gt said:
re 32 versus 42, the 32 is the car that came from the design house. The 42 is the americanised version of that car.
As I see it, both came from the same design house, the 42 being the evolution of the 32 in the same way the GS is the evolution of the 42. Engineering-wise (from the engine to car handling dynamics) that's undoubtable, like it or not.
3200gt said:
It is "perhaps" more user friendly however I think that cutting edge design/cars are not aimed at being user friendly.
But then, e.g. a lawn mower is not necessarily a smooth ride, but that does not necessarily mean it's a better ride (agree it could possibly be more fun for a while, but only that).
3200gt said:
the 32 is the car which rejuvenated masser and put them back on the map, the 42 is the car which is aimed at making them profitable.
So?
3200gt said:
You pays your money you takes your choice. Having driven both and sufficient finances to choose I wouldn't swop my 32 for a 42 anytime in the near future, maybe in the future when I get a bad back or cant stand a turbo kick any longer I'll change my mind?
And I would say that of my 42. Bottom line: they are both great cars, choose what you like most.
Ed
Hi Barrie,
1. my first point, get a Maser!!!! all 3200 and 4200 owners will agree and tell you that....
2. my preference was to go for a 4200 (now 10 months into ownership, and still loving every drive
. When leaving the car - I really look forward to the next drive!!). I took my time to decide between the models, after considering several 3200s and several 4200s, and having plenty of test drives - which I strongly recommend you do to find the one for you....
3. my reasons for deciding on the 4200 is it generally felt a more sorted drive, I preferred the 4.2 engine, and the cambio corsa gearbox is fab - whether you are after a more 'sorted' (IMHO) drive is down to taste... and again, you'll know after quite a few test drives. I think the improvements to the interior (dash and seats) make it a nice place to be in, and you gotta love the leather trim...
4. Troesma has articulated some good points for the 4200, and I agree with most of them, I just wanted to stress how much I enjoy driving with the Cambiocorsa - the ability to select whatever gear I want for when I want it, gives me more flexibility in my driving than an auto (again a personal view). Bear in mind when you first drive the CC, it will seem odd, and many writers on here (including me) have remarked on how it takes a week or more of driving with it to start to feel comfortable with it - after that point - you may never go back!!
5. I like my satnav - its not in the same league as those built into BMWs or MBs, but it still gets me where I want to go..
6. Lights - they just weren't important enough (in the overall context of things) for me to go for a 3200, that's all I'll say - most of my mates who have 3200s are, however, passionate about the lights...
7. Get one with full Maser service history and a full warranty...
That's all. Hope it helps....
Oh, and did I mention.... get a Maser!!!
Cheers, and happy motoring
John
1. my first point, get a Maser!!!! all 3200 and 4200 owners will agree and tell you that....
2. my preference was to go for a 4200 (now 10 months into ownership, and still loving every drive
. When leaving the car - I really look forward to the next drive!!). I took my time to decide between the models, after considering several 3200s and several 4200s, and having plenty of test drives - which I strongly recommend you do to find the one for you.... 3. my reasons for deciding on the 4200 is it generally felt a more sorted drive, I preferred the 4.2 engine, and the cambio corsa gearbox is fab - whether you are after a more 'sorted' (IMHO) drive is down to taste... and again, you'll know after quite a few test drives. I think the improvements to the interior (dash and seats) make it a nice place to be in, and you gotta love the leather trim...
4. Troesma has articulated some good points for the 4200, and I agree with most of them, I just wanted to stress how much I enjoy driving with the Cambiocorsa - the ability to select whatever gear I want for when I want it, gives me more flexibility in my driving than an auto (again a personal view). Bear in mind when you first drive the CC, it will seem odd, and many writers on here (including me) have remarked on how it takes a week or more of driving with it to start to feel comfortable with it - after that point - you may never go back!!
5. I like my satnav - its not in the same league as those built into BMWs or MBs, but it still gets me where I want to go..
6. Lights - they just weren't important enough (in the overall context of things) for me to go for a 3200, that's all I'll say - most of my mates who have 3200s are, however, passionate about the lights...
7. Get one with full Maser service history and a full warranty...
That's all. Hope it helps....
Oh, and did I mention.... get a Maser!!!
Cheers, and happy motoring
John
troesma said:
3200gt said:
They were only changed on the 42 because the yanks didn't like them and that is massers biggest market..
True to a certain degree, there were also US car safety compliance issues involved. As said above, I very much like the boomerang lights, but (many) others do not. Your money, your choice! ..
Who regulates the US car safety compliance? Oh yeah, that'll be the yanks then!
troesma said:
3200gt said:
re 32 versus 42, the 32 is the car that came from the design house. The 42 is the americanised version of that car.
As I see it, both came from the same design house, the 42 being the evolution of the 32 in the same way the GS is the evolution of the 42. Engineering-wise (from the engine to car handling dynamics) that's undoubtable, like it or not..
Thats like saying that a copy of the Mona Lisa with glasses is as original as the Mona Lisa!
troesma said:
3200gt said:
It is "perhaps" more user friendly however I think that cutting edge design/cars are not aimed at being user friendly.
But then, e.g. a lawn mower is not necessarily a smooth ride, but that does not necessarily mean it's a better ride (agree it could possibly be more fun for a while, but only that)..
Not sure what lawn mowers have got to do with it? Like it or not the dynamics of a 32 are totally different from those of a 42. There are many more aspects to which I am reffering other than ride.
troesma said:
3200gt said:
the 32 is the car which rejuvenated masser and put them back on the map, the 42 is the car which is aimed at making them profitable.
So?.
So if it wasn't for the original, the (IMO, Bland) 42 would not exist.
troesma said:
3200gt said:
You pays your money you takes your choice. Having driven both and sufficient finances to choose I wouldn't swop my 32 for a 42 anytime in the near future, maybe in the future when I get a bad back or cant stand a turbo kick any longer I'll change my mind?
And I would say that of my 42. Bottom line: they are both great cars, choose what you like most.
Last time I looked a 42 doesn't have turbo's!
OK, bored now.
Sorry, I did't imply or mean the 42 has turbos, which it obviously doesn't. Just that as much as you like your 32 I like my 42. That's what I was trying to say.
And yep, the dynamics of the 32 are truly different from those of the 42.
So, either way the bottom line for Barrie is : test-drive the cars, as Johnnyboy said, and go for the one you like most. It's your money, it's your drive. Simple.
And yep, I'm also bored by now. Ed.
And yep, the dynamics of the 32 are truly different from those of the 42.
So, either way the bottom line for Barrie is : test-drive the cars, as Johnnyboy said, and go for the one you like most. It's your money, it's your drive. Simple.
And yep, I'm also bored by now. Ed.
Edited by troesma on Friday 28th July 16:38
Fantastic thread reading guys...ill tell you one thing that i have understood for reading this. YOU LOT ARE VERY VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR MASSERS! which says a lot for the marque.
In terms of things going wrong, most cars have there achilies heel so to say...what should i be looking for and what could cost me heartache if it goes wrong.
p.s i could fit a child seat in the back cant I? please say yes or its the devil's x5 for me
In terms of things going wrong, most cars have there achilies heel so to say...what should i be looking for and what could cost me heartache if it goes wrong.
p.s i could fit a child seat in the back cant I? please say yes or its the devil's x5 for me
barrieeld said:
Fantastic thread reading guys...ill tell you one thing that i have understood for reading this. YOU LOT ARE VERY VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR MASSERS! which says a lot for the marque.
In terms of things going wrong, most cars have there achilies heel so to say...what should i be looking for and what could cost me heartache if it goes wrong.
p.s i could fit a child seat in the back cant I? please say yes or its the devil's x5 for me
In terms of things going wrong, most cars have there achilies heel so to say...what should i be looking for and what could cost me heartache if it goes wrong.
p.s i could fit a child seat in the back cant I? please say yes or its the devil's x5 for me
Ref : 3200 - I have Twins and Two Child Seats fitted fine in my 3200 gt - In Fact the Seats fitted better in this car than our M3 but granted this may be down to the design of the Child Seats.
Also for what its worth - IMO AVOID the Trident Warranty - Nothing was resolved without the threat of court action.
I understand that Meridien do not use this warranty as first choice anymore. Ask them why ? !
The 3200 is a brilliant experience when the car works but as previously listed the 4200 is a better car.
IMO the 3200 and the Twin Turbo is amazing but the car does have its problems and when it goes wrong you better have deep pockets. - See My Profile for Financial Details as well as others on this Forum.
In a way I miss its Beauty and Insane Performance! but not the lack of reliability.
I remember the Actuators are expensive if they become faulty especially with Maserati labour Charges.
Clutches equally so.
Also make sure you have the Geometry checked on the 3200gt as this makes a big difference.
Having had the 4200 as well the difference is very obvious.
The interior is more spacious in the 4200 and the handling is better but the lack of Twin Turbo's is very obvious.
I personally hated the Paddle Shift Gearbox but again this is personal experience.
I wish the 3200gt had the handling of the 4200 but I am not sure of the rear lights of the 4200 - Reminds me of the Honda Prelude - Sorry guys but it does.
It is a better car (4200) granted but this car is about passion and not the logic but I can't help feel that part of the passion is lost with the new rear end of the 4200.
The 3200 is one of the best looking cars of the current generation of Maser's IMO but then again I do understand why Maserati agreed to submit to the awful taste of the American's (eg to survive)
The 3200gt has an amazing sound but can do with a custom exhaust - I choose a Larini Exhaust which I would not buy again as comapared to the Tubi it is not as loud !(again personal experience)
Having heard David A's at the maserati Launch Evening at Egham ! I think he set off 5 car alarms ! I would choose Scuderia Systems each time over Larini.P.S manu is a decent Chap for what its worth.
The 3200 is a great experience but make sure you have enough money to expect the unexpected even with warranty.
I bought from the Oldest Main Maserati Dealer in the UK and there were still problems.
Sometimes the car was away for 2 weeks and I received a £1,000 bill for example and then the car was returned and after 15 minutes the car was away again for an £800 bill! ( Im not joking)
Be Warned!
You dont buy these cars on a Ford Budget for example but when they work its worth the experience.
Just don't expect to run a 3200 or 4200 on a small budget.
Each Car is a wonderful experience and its down to personal choice.
Some owners experience little problems but others have different experiences.
The Maserati 3200 / 4200 are the only Cars I have ever driven and have never met with any real negative experience on the road.
And when the Turbo's kick in on the 3200gt !!!!! = Brilliant !
The Handling of the 3200 is suspicious! If you think Im joking PM me for vids at bedford test Track.
Either way the Cars are great fun and each model is a Great Experience every time you drive the cars.
Hope this info is of help ?
Edited by maserati3200gt on Friday 28th July 23:54
maserati3200gt said:
Having heard David A's at the maserati Launch Evening at Egham ! I think he set off 5 car alarms ! I would choose Scuderia Systems each time over Larini.P.S manu is a decent Chap for what its worth.
Edited by maserati3200gt on Friday 28th July 23:54
Brings a smile to my face every drive ! Now I've had both, in fact there is a gent on here who has my old 3200.
Quite simply they are differnt cars, each great in their own way. I would say the 3200 will probably have higher maintenance costs and be a little more hassle (Check Engine light anyone!) but it remains to be seen for me as I've only had the 4200spyder for a year now. In fact a year ago today I put the deposit down
In simplistic terms, the 4200 is a newer better built car, feels more solid. It isn't as instantly larey as the 3200 but can be if you want it to.
I'm trying to think of easy ways to compare perhaps its like a TVR vs. an M series bimmer or a 911 of old vs. a 911 today. See what I'm getting at, all great cars with potential to be mental but some are mental straight from start up.
The 3200 is a better looking car than the 4200 coupe but as they never did a 3200 spider .......
Drive both, if you buy a 3200 and its too larey get a 4200, but above all get one - soon before summer runs out.
Dave
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