The Spyder was first unveiled to the public at the 2001 Frankfurt Auto Show with the Coupé’s debut following shortly thereafter at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show. Sales in the United States began in March 2002 for the Spyder and in May for the Coupé. The release of the Spyder heralded Maserati’s return to the North American market after an 11-year hiatus. Almost as soon as it was introduced, the Spyder was selected by Forbes as the Best GT for 2001.
The Maserati Spyder is a soft-top convertible that is electronically operated by a pushbutton on the center console. The top automatically stows beneath a hard cover that sits flush with the body in front of the boot. Both deployment and stowage of the top takes about 30 seconds.[14] Arch-type roll bars are provided behind each seat. The Spyder’s 96.1-inch wheelbase is 8.6 inches shorter than the Coupé’s. Overall length is 169.4 inches), width 71.7 inches, and height 51.4 inches. Curb weight is 3,600 pounds.
Both models utilize the F136 R V8 belonging to the Ferrari/Maserati F136 engine family; it displaces 4244 cc engine and develops 385 hp at 7000 rpm with a peak torque of 332 lb·ft at 4500 rpm.
