Only a number of brands can match the bitchy, prosodic fabulousness of “Maserati.� And few cars in the world can match the voluptuous regality of Maserati’s GranTurismo. In other words, it’s beautiful whether you’re saying it or seeing it. Compared with the similarly designed Aston Martin DBS (long hood, front-midship engine layout), the GranTurismo succeeds not with ornamentation but through the emotional, almost whimsical curvature of its plus-size body. The fact that a raucous, Ferrari-derived V-8 resides under the long hood is just icing on one helluva beautiful cake.

Two main novelties are at the heart of the new Maserati: the 440 hp V8 4.7 engine and the electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC-Shift arranged in the transaxle layout typical of high-performance sports cars that represents the technological DNA of all Maseratis.

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Even with the current economic turmoil, some car makers still want to gain the crown of making beautiful and fast cars. Although it may seem ludicrous to launch a $1.9 million supercar in today’s economic climate, the 2009 Aston Martin One-77 serves as a halo car for the iconic British brand.

“Quite simply it had to be the ultimate expression of Aston Martin,” said CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez. “As you can now see, we have achieved that goal in magnificent style.”

Though the sharp edges, quirky headlamps, and ribbed side panels may spur debate among Aston enthusiasts, the One-77 is refreshingly unique. Certain cues – notably the fluted grille and wrap-around taillights – are still present, but the car can’t be mistaken for a “pedestrian” Vantage, DB9, or DBS.
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