Founded by three brothers in Bologna shortly after the outbreak of the First World War, Maserati initially focused on building racing cars, and by the 1920s it was already taking first place at prestigious sporting events. 

The Italian automaker’s logo - based on the trident of Neptune - quickly became an emblem of excellence, paving the way for it to produce popular road cars from 1947 onwards. While the launch of the Formula One world championship in 1950 reignited its racetrack success, over the following decades it further elevated its reputation with the release of coveted vehicles that became the cars of choice for high profile politicians, sportsmen, business magnates, movie stars and royalty. 

Ownership of the brand has switched numerous times over the last century, however its commitment to impressive engineering, incredible performance and sleek silhouettes remains unchanged.

The brand is also renowned for creating cars with personality. Notable models include the curvaceous A6 1500 which was the brand’s first production road car, the Quatrroporte sports sedan which is now in its sixth generation, and the Ghibli which has been regarded as a leading luxury saloon for decades. 

With just 34 ever built, the Maserati 5000 GT coupe is also one of its best loved designs. Famed for its quintessential 50s style and eight cylinder engine, the extraordinary car was produced at the behest of the then Shah of Persia, Reza Pahlavi. Other prestigious owners of the time included Prince Karim Aga Khan, Fiat boss Gianni Agnelli, industrialist Ferdinando Innocenti, film star Stewart Granger, and Mexican President Adolfo López Mateos.

In 2023 Maserati once again made history by becoming the first Italian luxury brand to produce 100% electric vehicles. As well as its SUV Grecale Folgore, which was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, its zero emissions range currently includes the GranTurismo Folgore (the Italian word for lightning) which can travel up to 450 km on a single battery charge. 

Electrification is set to play an even bigger role for Maserati over the next few years as the brand has committed to producing electric versions of all its models by 2025, and by 2030, every vehicle it offers will run entirely on electric. Although this move is a major gear change for Maserati - and all automotive manufacturers moving towards sustainability - it’s certain that regardless of the power source, the iconic Italian brand will continue to provide blazing acceleration, sensational agility and stunning good looks.

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