There has been speculation regarding Ferrari‘s decision to discontinue the provision of V8 engines to Maserati after 2023 as the longstanding agreement between these renowned Italian car manufacturers draws to a close this year. Maserati, recognised by its emblematic trident badge, has been manufacturing vehicles equipped with eight-cylinder engines since 1959, when the 5000 GT was introduced. Over the past 64 years, Maserati has successfully sold more than 100,000 V8-powered cars. As a result, this esteemed sports car brand, based in Modena, has now opted to conclude its use of V8 engines by introducing this captivating sedan and SUV pair.
Making its premiere at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Ghibli 334 Ultima and Levante V8 Ultima will showcase the final use of the twin-turbo 3.8-litre engine. With its origins in Maranello, this powertrain delivers an impressive 572 horsepower, mirroring the performance of the range-topping Trofeo models. Maserati has limited production to just 103 units of each variant, and in honour of this milestone, the eight-cylinder epilogue receives a collection of internal and external aesthetic enhancements.
Ghibli 334 Ultima
The Ghibli 334 Ultima showcases a unique shade called Scià di Persia, complemented by stylish Rubino details. The fender proudly displays the emblem “334” to symbolise its remarkable maximum velocity of 334 km/h (208 mph). This achievement positions it as the swiftest sedan available, outpacing the Bentley Flying Spur Speed by a convenient margin of 1 km/h, as the latter achieves 333 km/h (207 mph). As a reminder, the Ghibli Trofeo attains a top speed of 326 km/h (203 mph).
The new model outperforms the Ghibli Trofeo in terms of speed, with an improved 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of just 3.9 seconds, which is 4.3 seconds faster. Maserati emphasises the meticulous attention given to reducing weight and enhancing tyre performance. The tyres feature a specially formulated compound optimised for superior performance.
The performance-oriented sedan features 21-inch wheels enhanced with subtle dark elements, accompanied by sleek black brake calipers. The back of the vehicle showcases a carbon fibre spoiler on the trunk lid. As for the interior, Maserati has adorned the Ghibli 334 with a luxurious combination of Ultima Pale Terracotta leather upholstery and Alcantara accents for the seat centre. The headrests proudly display the Trident and 334 badges, while a distinctive plaque engraved with “334” embellishes the centre console. The centre console area also showcases a logo denoting the car’s exclusivity as “una di 103.”
Levante V8 Ultima
The Levante V8 Ultima is available in two exquisite shades: Nero Assoluto and Blu Royale. This remarkable vehicle glides on stunning 22-inch wheels with a sleek black finish. Embracing its sporty nature, it comes with a standard carbon fibre exterior package, complemented by a tastefully painted “V8 Ultima” emblem adorning the front fenders. Stepping into the luxurious interior, you’ll be greeted by a harmonious blend of Pale Terracotta and black leather seats, elegantly showcasing the renowned Maserati emblem and distinguished “V8 Ultima” lettering. To further enhance its exclusivity, the centre console proudly displays a discreet yet striking “una di 103” insignia, ensuring this Levante stands out from the rest.
While Ferrari and Maserati currently both utilise V6 engines, they are entirely separate entities with no connections. Michael Leiters, Ferrari’s former Chief Technical Officer, explicitly stated a few years ago that these two engines share no similarities whatsoever. Furthermore, Maserati has consistently emphasised that their Netunno engine is an exclusive creation by Maserati, devoid of any external influences.
At the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Maserati has exciting offerings in store that go beyond the final performance of the V8 engine. Among them is the debut of the GranTurismo Trofeo, equipped with the impressive Netunno V6 powertrain. Alongside it, Maserati will showcase the unique GranTurismo One-Off Prisma and the environmentally friendly GranTurismo Folgore, which runs entirely on electric power.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the Grecale Folgore, an electric SUV with a midsize design. Lastly, the MC20 Cielo convertible supercar, finished in the striking Rosso Vincente shade, will also be on display.
Source and Images: Motor1