Maserati Coupe questions

First of all, you don't mention the most important characteristic of the car, the gearbox. Is it a manual or a Cambiocorsa?

If it is a CC then you MUST get a reading of the clutch left, otherwise you are looking at a VERY LARGE bill to change clutch and related items (bearings, clutch sensor etc).

Personally, I suggest you look at a newer car. It is very well known that you should look for a 2004 or newer car because thats when all the major changes/fixes happened.

I understand that cars like a 4200 Coupe from 2002 may look like good value, but if it hasn't been maintained right, you'll be regretting it for many many years. Because it is still a Maserati and fixing things will cost accordingly.

The problem with many cheap Maseratis out there, is that people buy them because they are cheap to buy, but eventually they realize that they don't have the money to properly maintain them.

Eventually they butcher the cars with wrong parts, bad maintenance and eventually sell them for an even lower price. So the next poor guy is just the same circle all over again.

 

I have to agree, I have run all the coupes and spiders from 3200gt thru to 4200, 2001 to 2007 models. Very little has gone wrong for me at all, but they were all traded within warranty and at lower mileages. Be careful. That said, I found the cars all excellent and I can imagine a good 4200 would be a fantastic stealthy daily driver

 

I would say that with a new (or nearly so) clutch, the price is $22 or less. If it will soon need a clutch, deduct $4-5k

 

I am pretty sure that the 2002-03 are just as good as the 2004's+. The only thing I believe they changes was the mapping for the shifting of the Cambiocorsa, which most people did the upgrade reflash for on their 02-03's by now. maserati life forum is the place to ask that question as well. But I think I'm remembering correctly, so don't shy away from the first 2 years as I think no other notable changes were made for 04 other than that. They are great cars that I'm considering getting in the next year or so.

 

I also remember reading that the clutch price for a CC or manual are both right around $4k.

 

88MONDIAL, I respectfully disagree with you. The early cars (pre 2004) are to be avoided, the improvements in newer cars are numerous and very important. Especially on the 4200 Spyder, which comes with a real glass rear window and hardened chassis.

In addition to the newer/improved CC, the newer models have improved software and the extra sensors, thus the ASR was improved and the complete MSP was added (like in the newer cars, GS/GT/QP). Newer models also have the good F1 relay (black color) and not the "bad" relay which gets stuck open (grey color).

and many other improvements...

Please read my post here for important information about these cars:

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showpost.php?p=140706351&postcount=84

 

Well, thats true - but the Spyder is still shakey around the A-columns!

Ciao!
Walter

 

I have a 2001 cambiocorsa spider and would not consider selling it or giving it up. It's fantastic.

So, each to their own. I love this car. It's beautiful, reliable, has ample power, and sexy. The interior is gorgeous and comfortable. People love the way it looks and sounds (thanks to the Tubi).

Seriously... some of the things people bring up against these cars is way over the top. Look at at 2001 Mustang or BMW 3 series convertible and then tell me which is the better car 11 years later.

Should you buy a later model car? Sure. That's also true of a Lexus. But, to say the pre-2004 are all crap and should be avoided like the plague is also not correct.

Anyone who wants to see a what a wonderful car this is, just drive mine someday. You'll come out very impressed.

 

heh yes its still shaky, but there are a few adjustments people can do to help things.

one guy added a metal brace underneath the car, another added anti sway bars. The first solution adds a bit of weight, but both seem to have good results.

 

Cowl shake was also a problem in the '02-03 spyders IIRC

 

20k. If you really want a coupe with CC, buy the Gransport.

 

If the car hasnt been worked on except standard tunes and oil....put away 15-20k for upcoming maintenance and major expenses.

Window Sensor (lower the window slightly if this goes out and leave it down)
Rubber Window Gasket (if you dont lower the window)
Clutch Change
F-1 Pump & Relay (new one is better)
Brakes. Although mine lasted about 45k miles
Suspension Bushings (changed at 30k miles)


If you take your car to a dealership they can perform software upgrades. I had my clutch and some assembly linked to the clutch changed. It was costly but a great upgrade as the car shifts much smoother & faster. Better than new on the 2004 model. some technolgy was used from the 430 in the upgrade which is standard when the part is changed..I'll have to look up what part it was called.

Also, if your going to park in the sun...get a sunshade to save your dash.

 

Very nice write-up on what to look out for. Thanks![/QUOTE]
I agree. Maserati Blue, I vote your posts as the most useful I have ever read, ever!

 

Suuuure, It's my charming sarcasm that wins you over

Since this is your first and only post, I'm sure someone around here is playing games. Fair enough.

 

I think he knows you from Maserati Life forum

 

Posting back so you guys know I'm the the real deal. On Christmas day no less!


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