Why you’d want a Maserati 3200GT, Coupé and Spyder
When Autocar first drove a Maserati 3200 in 1999, it loved the styling both inside and out – ‘looks and feels much more special than anything else at the price’ – but was less than impressed by ‘poor steering, horrid throttle response and an unyielding ride’.
Ferrari engineers worked hard to improve matters, and when it was tested again in late 2000, the difference was immense.
Steering and front-suspension changes, an uprated ECU and better control of the Australian four-speed automatic addressed most complaints – though the ’box was still a limiting factor and the ride was still unyielding, whether Sport or Auto settings on the dampers were chosen.
The brakes were fantastic, but fuel economy from the twin-turbo V8 was poor, as was the driving position for anyone over 6ft.
But, crucially, it was now a great drive: ‘A car enthusiasts can relish.’
Space in the rear was quite acceptable for two adults, but the boot was small.
Maserati sold 1653 3200GTs in the UK in three years, before replacing it with the more focused 4200 Coupé and Spyder – comprehensively modified under the skin, but little-changed visually with a slightly raised bonnet, more conventional rear lights and new wheels.
