With an affinity towards Italian sports cars, Novitec has taken to great lengths to ensure the utmost quality and style for Ferrari and Maserati models alike. We've already seen tuning programs for Maserati models such as the GranTurismo and the Quattroporte, so the next logical step for the primed tuning firm is the GranCabrio. Some may have expected this package to have come out long before it has, but perfection takes time and adding 150 HP to the sports car is rather close to perfection. Joining the power upgrade is a top speed that has been increased to 187 mph and a subtle aerodynamic package.

Pricing for the complete GranCabrio tuning program - including exterior and interior modifications - has yet to be announced, but if an engine upgrade is all that is desired then that will cost $26,800.

Hit the jump to read more about the Maserati GranCabrio by Novitec Tridente.

2011 Maserati GranCabrio by Novitec Tridente

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Maserati GranCabrio by Novitec Tridente
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 590
  • Torque: 421
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The aerodynamic package comes with a plethora of carbon fiber components, including new front spoiler lips attached to both sides of the production front apron, a radiator grille surround, a rocker panel trim, a rear spoiler lip, and a diffuser for the standard bumper. Also included in the exterior look is a new set of alloy wheels, size 21- and 22-inchfor the front and rear, respectively. The three-piece wheels with five double spokes are available in any desired color and can be coated withcarbon fiber upon request.

Further customization is offered with a specifically calibrated, height-adjustable coilover suspension. This suspension will allow each customer to select his or her individual ride-height lowering and damper settings.

For the interior, Novitec is offering the finest leather or Alcantara in any desired color.

Engine

No matter how impressive the exterior modifications may be, the most exciting part about the tuning program for the Maserati GranCabrio is the exquisite power upgrade provided. Novitec Tridente took the 4,700 cc V8 engine and added a perfectly dimensioned supercharger driven by a cogged-tooth belt that will limit the boost pressure to 0.35 bar. The tuner then added a sport compressor conversion that includes a custom intake manifold and larger injectors. Finishing off the modification is a new sports exhaust system, available with or without the control flap, that features four slanted tailpipes with diameters of 90 millimeters.

After all of that hard work, the total output for the Maserati GranCabrio has been raised by 150 HP, to a total of 590 HP and 421 lbs-ft of torque. As a result, the sprint from 0 to 60 mph will be made in just 4.5 seconds, while top speed now goes to 187 mph.

Prices

Novitec Tridente hasn't released prices for the full tuning package just yet, but those interested in the engine upgrade should know they will need to shell over 19,900 euro, or $26,800 at the current exchange rates, to get their GranCabrio up to this speed.

Competition

When it comes to models like the Maserati GranCabrio, many people believe that the straight-out-of-the-factory sport convertible is fine just the way it is. We buy convertibles for those beautiful sunny days where the wind feels great as you fly down the road with the top down, not for streaking down the track and breaking records. With this idea in mind, not many tuners feel the need to bump up the performance or even the look of convertibles very often. That being said, there is one other tuner that took a Maserati and gave it a proper tuning program.

SR Project just finished their new tuning package for the Maserati called the Draken. Their package included some nice exterior and interior upgrades, but they did absolutely nothing for the power output. It's safe to say that we would much rather enjoy a little engine boost to go along with the aesthetic upgrades so were going to hand this one over to Novitec.