Founded by Alfieri Maserati and his brothers in 1914, Maserati had long been the arch rival of Ferrari before Ferruccio Lamborghini launched himself so successfully into the industry. Although the brothers sold the company in 1937, the company retained their name and the world-renowned Trident logo. Like Ferrari, Maserati also has an illustrious history in Gran Prix racing, although the company stopped competing in 1957 and shifted its focus onto its road cars.

The company was acquired by Fiat in 1993, and in 1999 its former arch rival Ferrari (also under the Fiat umbrella) took total control of the company. As of this year Fiat took back direct control of Maserati from Ferrari is keen to emphasis that Maserati is not Ferrari's less well-known little brother but a very separate and unique brand.

Luca Gazocchi, Marketing Director of Maserati explains, “Maserati offers its customers a refined elegance, a more exclusive car” he says. “Ferrari produces high performance racing cars and Lamborghini has a great heritage in sports cars, but Maserati offers a balance of performance, technical expertise and comfort. It's not just about the horse power, it's about the enjoyment of driving.”

Indeed it is an executive saloon, Maserati's famous Quattroporte, that is the company's best selling car. Described as a ‘twin-souled car', it is a saloon in terms of space, size and safety but thanks to engine positioning – unique amongst saloons – it drives like a sports car.

While not as noticeable as Ferrari's slick 612, or as brazen as Lamborghini's Murcielago, the Quattroporte is more about understated elegance and is proving very popular with the Chinese elite. “The Quattroporte is perfect for China 's rich” explains Gazocchi, “They have the best of both worlds. Don't drive in the week, use your chauffeur and you can work or relax in the back. Ah, but at the weekends… then you want to drive it yourself. It's all about enjoyment; it's a pity to let your chauffeur drive all the time”.

For fans of Maserati or classic cars, when visiting Italy it is worth requesting a viewing of the private Panini Collection. While in Modena , I was fortunate enough to be given a tour of this excellent collection, one of the most important and complete collections of Maserati's in the world, including over 26 classic cars in pristine condition. Although privately owned by the Panini family, special requests can be made to view the cars, not all requests are granted so it's worth asking well in advance of your planned travels.

Source: http://www.google.com/hurun.net


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