The Maserati Quattroporte AM337 was a grand tourer produced by Italian car manufacturer Maserati from 1998 to 2001. It was the third generation of the Quattroporte line and marked a significant return to form for the brand after a period of relative decline.
Design and Features:
The AM337 Quattroporte was designed under the leadership of Giorgetto Giugiaro, who aimed to create a more muscular and aggressive look while still maintaining the car's signature elegance. The result was a sleek, curvaceous design with prominent fender flares, a sloping grille, and a distinctive "kink" in the roofline just behind the rear seats.
Inside, the Quattroporte featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an advanced infotainment system for its time. The cabin was refined and spacious, with ample room for passengers and luggage.
Engine and Performance:
The AM337 Quattroporte V8 Evoluzione 3.2 was powered by a naturally aspirated, 90-degree V8 engine producing 328 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 294 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. This powerplant featured a cross-plane crankshaft design for improved smoothness and refinement.
With its rear-mounted transmission and all-wheel drive system (a first for the Quattroporte), this Maserati boasted exceptional traction and stability, even in inclement weather conditions. The car's top speed was electronically limited to 155 mph, while it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds.
Mechanicals:
The AM337 Quattroporte employed a longitudinal transmission layout, with the V8 engine mounted behind the rear axle. This configuration allowed for optimal weight distribution and minimized visual intrusion into the passenger compartment.
A five-speed automatic transmission was standard, but buyers could also opt for a six-speed manual gearbox. The all-wheel-drive system was electronically controlled to direct power to the wheels as needed, enhancing stability and traction on various road surfaces.
Specifications:
- Engine Type: 90-degree V8
- Displacement: 3.2 liters (198.1 cu in)
- Cylinders: 8
- Power Output: 328 horsepower at 6,000 rpm
- Torque Output: 294 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm
- Transmission: Five-speed automatic (six-speed manual optional)
- Drive Type: All-wheel drive
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h)
- 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 5.7 seconds
Warranty and Maintenance:
The Quattroporte came with a comprehensive warranty package, including a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle warranty, as well as separate warranties for the engine and transmission. Regular maintenance was recommended every 12 months or 15,000 miles, whichever occurred first.
Price and Availability:
During its production run from 1998 to 2001, the Maserati Quattroporte AM337 V8 Evoluzione 3.2 was sold at a base price of approximately $124,000 in the United States (equivalent to around $185,000 today). With various trim options and upgrades available, prices could vary depending on regional market conditions.
Legacy:
The AM337 Quattroporte marked an important turning point for Maserati's fortunes. Its success helped pave the way for future models like the 2004 GranTurismo and the MC12 supercar, further solidifying the brand's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance luxury vehicles.
