Luxury Life & Style - (Page 49)

DRIVE top of the class NEw LuxuRY SEDANS by Don weberg L amborghini, Porsche, Ferrari, Lotus, Corvette – these are names you expect to provide power, speed and luxury. You know what they’re capable of out of the gate. It’s a much more interesting proposition when you find a luxury liner that can keep pace with such sporty names. Let’s examine the attributes of three such models: the new Jaguar XF, the Mercedes S-Class, and the Maserati Quattroporte. Maserati Quattroporte Here’s a blast from the past, which you might recall as the Qporte. The modern version is something of a leather-clad missile capable of blurring the scenery in a hurry, or cruising the avenue window-shopping from a fabulously comfortable cabin. The latter option has proven difficult for some of the older Qs. Imagine Las Vegas in late July at two o’clock in the afternoon, and you’ll get the picture. It’s just not a place for some older cars, particularly those of the Italian variety. But, like Jaguar, Maserati has come a long way from what it used to be. Smooth, flowing lines mark the new Mas lineup, with bold appointments such as the grille, taillights, and the side window design that dramatically breaks the overall svelte shape. Inside, supple leathers blend with exquisite chromes and rich woods to create a rolling chamber of luxury. Stab the accelerator, and the 400-horsepower Ferrari-derived 4.2-liter V8 and magnificent 6-speed automatic springs to life, easily propelling the 4,400-pound sedan to 60 mph in about five seconds flat. Possibly the most attractive part of ordering a Maserati is the company’s ability to craft your individual car. They offer a large range of colors and interior selections, but if you don’t see what you like, just bring in a sample. They’ll get it done for you. Maserati is one of the last car companies offering a coach-built experience. Sure, it costs extra, but isn’t it worth it? Maserati of Beverly Hills, 9372 Wilshire Boulevard. 888-803-4337, maseratiamerica.com. Quattroporte Specifications* BODY: Material: Steel Overall Length: 198.9 in. Overall Width: 74.6 in. Height: 56.10 in. Wheelbase: 120.6 in. Curb Weight: 4,387 lbs Weight distribution (fr/rr): NA MECHANICALS: Transmission: 6- or 7-speed auto Engine: 4.2-liter Horsepower: 400 Torque: 339 TIRES: FR: 245/35 ZR20 RR: 295/30 ZR20 PERFORMANCE: 0-62 MPH: 5.5 seconds Top Speed: 165 *Manufacturer informational claims May/June 2008 Luxury Life & Style 49 http://maseratiamerica.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Luxury Life & Style

Editor's Letter
Carte Blanche
Home
The Arts
Seen in the South Bay
Give
Drive
Spotlight
Feature
Seen in the South Bay
Travel
The Cellar
Dine
In Developement
Coda

Luxury Life & Style

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