News: Maserati MC20 is Ready to Take on McLaren & Ferrari

Do you remember the last Maserati supercar from 15 years ago? The MC12 that was based on the Ferrari Enzo. Well since that time, Maserati hasn’t produced any other supercars. They made a few GT coupes & sedans and even an SUV, but no supercar. Now that has changed with the introduction of the all-new Maserati MC20. This is the first step in Maserati’s new future with a completely revised vehicle lineup.

Here are the specs: 630 hp, 538 lb-ft of torque, 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, 325 km/h (202 mph) top speed, 1,499 kg (3,306 lbs) curb weight.

Maserati MC20 — Photo courtesy of Maserati

Let’s start with the engine. It is a Maserati built – not Ferrari – 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 that sends its power to the back wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Normally in the past, Maserati would look for help from parent company Ferrari for help in the powertrain department. But this new engine is the first to be produced by Maserati in over 20 years. Also due to the car’s low weight and high power output, the MC20 has a best in class weight-to-power ratio of 2.33 kg/hp.

The engine, Nettuno, took 2 years to design & manufacture. It does not feature any electrical assistance whether it be a KERS system or a more conventional hybrid propulsion system. Speaking of KERS though, there is some F1 tech in this engine. It uses Maserati’s Twin Combustion (MTC) technology which was first introduced in Formula One.

The engine sits in a carbon fiber tub and is enveloped by a sculpted carbon fiber body. The body was designed in the Dallara Wind Tunnel and took more than 2,000 man hours to sculpt. The result is a sleek but high downforce generating body that can accommodate a coupe, convertible, and a full electric powertrain.

Open up the butterfly doors and two 10-inch screens welcome the driver & passenger. A simplistic center console doesn’t draw attention away from the job of driving. But this new Maserati MC20 is thoroughly a 21st century vehicle with WiFi hotspot, Amazon Alexa connectivity, Google Assist, and Maserati’s own smartphone app. Other modern touches include a rear camera mirror in place of a traditional mirror.

Production is set to begin at the end of 2020 with orders being accepted as of September 9, 2020.