Difference between revisions of "Spyder"

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[[Image:mascoupe.JPG|thumb|right|250px|2002 Maserati Coupe GT]]
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[[Image:spydergt.JPG|thumb|right|250px|2002 Maserati Spyder GT]]
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[[Image:Ferrari360spider.jpg|thumb|400px|right|'''Ferrari 360 Spider at Wheels Of Italy''']]
In [[2002]], [[Maserati]] launched the '''Coupe''' and '''Spyder''', based on the [[Maserati 3200 GT|3200 GT]], which is not sold in the United States. Both models have a normally aspirated 4.2 L engine producing 390 bhp (291 kW). The top speed is 177 mph (285 km/h), while 0-60 time is 4.9 seconds.  The V8 engine is shared between Maserati and [[Ferrari]].
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'''Spyder''' or '''Spider''' is an [[Italian]] term for a [[convertible]] [[car body style]].
  
The Spyder was first revealed to the public at the 2001 Frankfurt Auto Show. It made its United States debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2002.
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The term derives from horse-drawn carriages, as do [[car body styles|other automotive terms]].  A spider phaeton was a lighter version of a [[phaeton body|phaeton]], having narrower, spindly wheels and two-seat
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accommodation.  This term was subsequently applied to cars.
  
Upon its release, the Maserati Spyder became the first Maserati sold in the United States since 1990; the Coupe was released shortly thereafter. They are also the first Maseratis to feature a normally aspirated V8. Maserati had been producing twin turbo engines for 20 years prior to the release of the 2002 Coupe and Spyder.
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The first car to be officially called a "spyder" was the [[Ferrari Spyder]] — the name implied an extremely rudimentary top mechanism. Other later spyders include the [[Fiat 850]], numerous [[Ferrari]]s, [[Maserati]]s, the [[Lamborghini]], and the [[Alfa Romeo]] Spider.  
  
The two sportscars are available in two transmissions: GT, which is a traditional [[manual transmission|manual]], or Cambiocorsa, in which upshift and downshift paddles are mounted on the steering wheel; this is intended to simulate [[Formula One]] driving.  
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In more recent times, the term has been used by many automakers as a [[synonym]] for [[convertible]].  Examples include the [[Alfa Romeo Brea]], [[Lamborghini Gallardo]], and the [[Ferrari 360]].
  
The Coupe and Spyder are designed by [[Giorgetto Giugiaro]] of [[Italdesign Giugiaro|ItalDesign]]. The Spyder's 96.1-in. wheelbase is 8.6 inches shorter than that of the coupe. The Spyder seats two and the Coupe seats four.
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==See also==
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* [[convertible]]
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* [[roadster]]
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* [[drophead]]
  
Both models include a computer-controlled automatic damping system, high-performance Brembo brakes, and a touch-screen information center that combines audio and climate controls. A global-positioning navigation system and hands-free phone are available as options. Both come with 15-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels. Maserati offers a range of exterior colors and ten shades of leather interior; five colors for the Spyder's convertible top are also offered. Maserati owners can even order custom Maserati luggage, made to match their cars' interiors.
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[[Category:Car body styles]]
 
 
The Coupe ranges in price from US$82,633 - $86,877. The Spyder is slightly more expensive, costing US$87,252 - $91,415.
 
 
 
The future most likely will see a 4-seater Coupé and a 2-seater Spyder using the shortened floorpan of the [[Maserati Quattroporte|Quattroporte]]. The body design will be similar to that of the Quattroporte, and the introduction of the new model is scheduled for 2006. Rumored engines include a 4.3 L V8 (revised 4.2, 400 bhp), a 5.0 L V8 engine producing 470 bhp (a bored-up 4.2), and a Ferrari-612 sourced 5.4 L V12 engine (540 bhp). Even a V6 Biturbo (approx. 400 bhp) based on the new V6 of the [[Alfa Romeo]] 159 is being considered.
 
 
 
[[Category:Maserati vehicles|Coupe]]
 
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
 

Revision as of 14:49, 22 January 2007

File:Ferrari360spider.jpg
Ferrari 360 Spider at Wheels Of Italy

Spyder or Spider is an Italian term for a convertible car body style.

The term derives from horse-drawn carriages, as do other automotive terms. A spider phaeton was a lighter version of a phaeton, having narrower, spindly wheels and two-seat accommodation. This term was subsequently applied to cars.

The first car to be officially called a "spyder" was the Ferrari Spyder — the name implied an extremely rudimentary top mechanism. Other later spyders include the Fiat 850, numerous Ferraris, Maseratis, the Lamborghini, and the Alfa Romeo Spider.

In more recent times, the term has been used by many automakers as a synonym for convertible. Examples include the Alfa Romeo Brea, Lamborghini Gallardo, and the Ferrari 360.

See also