Where other car companies build concepts with futuristic shapes that have to be towed onto the show floor, Maserati's new GranTurismo MC concept is built for speed. Maserati racing engineers have taken the GranTurismo S model and added various aerodynamic and ventilation touches to the bodywork without spoiling the fine Pininfarina styling. Maserati places air intakes on the hood and around the grille, and, at the same time, put vents behind the front wheels and at the rear of the car. The front and rear fenders are resized to accommodate a wider front track and the rear vents. Maserati increases the size of the rear spoiler for extra down-force. To save weight, composites are used in the bodywork, and the windows are made of Lexan for track safety.
The engine, while basically the same powerplant as the 4.7-liter V-8 found in the GranTurismo S, gets tuned up and fitted with new intake and exhaust systems, resulting in 450 horsepower. The suspension, brakes, and tires all get refitted for track use, and the car gets a 100-liter FIA-approved gas tank. The interior no longer has the luxury appointments seen on the production car, instead getting fitted with racing instrumentation and seat.
The Maserati GranTurismo MC concept follows the design idea of Ferrari's Challenge Stradale and 430 Scuderia, both cars being performance-tuned and lightened versions of Ferrari's standard models.