Maserati has launched the GT2 Stradale in India at Rs 5.72 crore (ex-showroom). Based on the MC20, the GT2 Stradale is a road-legal, track-focused version inspired by the brand's GT2 race car. It gets a more powerful engine, aerodynamic and chassis upgrades, and weighs 60kg less than the MC20. Production is limited to 914 units worldwide, a reference to the year Maserati was founded, 1914.
The GT2 Stradale follows the introduction of the MCPura, an evolution of the MC20. The MCPura received exterior and interior design changes, but retained the MC20’s mechanical package, including its 630hp V6 Nettuno engine, carbon-fibre monocoque and butterfly doors. It is available as a coupe and as the convertible MCPura Cielo.
Maserati GT2 Stradale: Exterior
The GT2 Stradale gets an aerodynamic package inspired by the GT2 race car. This includes a redesigned front bumper, a front diffuser and vents on the bonnet as well as the front wheel arches which release hot air and reduce pressure, while enlarged rear air intakes improve airflow to the engine and radiators. Maserati says the revised rear intakes increase the flow of cooling air by 16 percent.
At the rear, the car gets a diffuser and a large, adjustable wing inspired by the GT2 race car. The wing has three settings to vary aerodynamic load. In its high-drag setting, the GT2 Stradale generates 500kg of downforce at 280kph, comprising 130kg at the front and 370kg at the rear. In comparison, the MC20 generates 145kg at the same speed. The GT2 Stradale also gets revised suspension, steering and braking hardware based on the GT2 race car.
The car uses the same carbon-fibre monocoque chassis as the MC20 and GT2 race car. Its 20-inch single-nut forged wheels are derived from the racing model and reduce weight by around 19kg compared with the standard wheels. The GT2 Stradale also gets a front-axle lift system that raises the nose by 35mm to clear obstacles.
Maserati GT2 Stradale: Powertrain
The GT2 Stradale is powered by a 3.0-litre, twin-turbo V6 Nettuno petrol engine that produces 640hp and 720Nm of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to the rear wheels. Maserati claims a 0-100kph time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 324kph. With a dry weight of 1,365kg, the GT2 Stradale is 60kg lighter than the standard MC20. Its engine also produces 10hp more than the MC20.
The car gets four driving modes: Wet, GT, Sport and Corsa. Buyers can opt for two performance packs. The Performance Pack adds Michelin semi-slick tyres, an electronic limited-slip differential and carbon-ceramic brakes. While the Performance Pack Plus adds four-point seatbelts, a mounting bracket and a fire extinguisher.
Both packs also include the Corsa Evo mode, which offers four levels of electronic assistance, allowing drivers to adjust how much the car's systems intervene.
Maserati GT2 Stradale: Interior
The GT2 Stradale shares its basic cabin layout with the MC20 but gets a redesigned central tunnel and Alcantara upholstery. The dark finishes are intended to reduce reflections. It gets a carbon-fibre steering wheel with integrated shift lights and paddle shifters. The carbon-fibre racing seats are available in two sizes.
The car retains the MC20’s butterfly doors and gets a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment screen and a 100-litre boot. It also has driver assistance systems, cameras and parking sensors.