2004 MASERATI SPYDER NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Maserati Spyder?
Cambiocorsa models equipped with Maserati’s sequential manual gearbox receive revised electronics and an improved clutch to make shifts smoother when operated in Full Auto mode.

Advantages of the 2004 Maserati Spyder:

• Ferrari-sourced 4.2-liter V8
• Cambiocorsa sequential manual transmission
• Can tailor to specific customer tastes

Objections to the 2004 Maserati Spyder:

• Stereo, climate and trip computer operated through Maserati Info Center, even when there is no navigation option specified
• Dowdy design

Editor's Advice:
Trade two rear seats and a smidge of performance for open-air motoring, and you’ve got the 2004 Maserati Spyder. Based on the Maserati Coupe but sporting a shorter wheelbase and a bit of additional weight, the Maserati Spyder is powered by the same Ferrari-sourced 4.2-liter aluminum V8 engine and rear transaxle as the Coupe. Acceleration to 60 mph declines a bit to 4.9 seconds, and the top speed drops by one to 176 mph. The 2004 Maserati Spyder includes a power operated, triple-lined top equipped with a heated glass rear window. The top drops into a well behind the front seats, covered by a hard tonneau when folded. Trunk space is unchanged from the Coupe at 10.6 cubic feet, enough space to accommodate two golf bags. Other differences include the addition of fixed twin roll bars behind the front seats that are unique to the Spyder. Maserati offers the top in four standard colors, but can color-coordinate with the paint if the buyer wishes. Competition is stiff, including the BMW 6-Series Convertible, Cadillac XLR, Jaguar XKR Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, and Porsche 911 Cabriolet, but none of these can match the primal howl supplied by the 2004 Maserati Spyder’s Ferrari V8.