Maserati Quattroporte (2003)

Maserati

Maserati Quattroporte V (M139): generations, engines and buying advice

Maserati Quattroporte V (M139) — a luxurious sedan produced from 2003 to 2012 with a V8 engine, crafted by Pininfarina. We look at the versions, engines, gearboxes and what to check when buying used.

Quattroporte V in brief

The fifth generation was unveiled in September 2003 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The exterior and interior were designed by Ken Okuyama, the chief designer at Pininfarina. The new M139 platform was 50 cm longer and had a 40 cm longer wheelbase than the previous generation.

The same platform was later used for the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. The last M139 was produced on December 20, 2012.

Pre-facelift and post-facelift

From 2003 to 2008, a 4.2-litre V8 with 400 hp and the automated manual 'DuoSelect' gearbox was offered. From 2005, the Executive GT and Sport GT trims were added, and from 2007, the Sport GT S.

The 2008 Geneva Motor Show saw the unveiling of the facelift: new bumpers, mirrors, a more pronounced grille, headlights and multimedia. The Quattroporte S with a 4.7-litre V8 (430 hp) was introduced, and all cars received the ZF automatic gearbox.

Engines and gearboxes

4.2-litre V8 — 400 hp; 4.7-litre V8 — 430 hp, and Sport GT S — 440 hp. According to the manufacturer, the Quattroporte accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 275 km/h (4.2-litre version).

In the early years, the 'DuoSelect' was an automated manual gearbox. From 2007, a 6-speed ZF automatic was offered, and after the 2008 facelift, the DuoSelect was discontinued.

What to check when buying a Quattroporte V

The „DuoSelect“ gearbox and suspension are often major sources of expense: the suspension can wear out quickly, especially in city driving. Check when the suspension was last replaced and if the software has been updated.

Check the „Skyhook“ adaptive suspension, as its components are expensive. Inspect the cabin's leather and electronics, check the engine oil level and the full service history.

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Trim levels

Trim levels named after Maserati designations; equipment varies by year and market.

Quattroporte

2003–2008 model years

Base version with DuoSelect, Skyhook suspension and 330 mm brake discs.

4.2-litre V8, 400 hp
Skyhook adaptive suspension
Poltrona Frau leather

Executive GT

2005 onwards

Luxury focus: rear seats with massage, footrests and tables.

Wooden steering wheel
Alcantara headliner
Often — rear seats with adjustment and massage

Sport GT

2005 onwards

Sportier version with firmer suspension and larger wheels.

20-inch alloy wheels
Aluminium pedals
Leather upholstery

Quattroporte S

2008 onwards

Post-facelift: 4.7-litre V8 with 430hp.

4.7-litre V8, 430hp
19-inch alloy wheels
Skyhook suspension as standard

Trim comparison

	Executive GT	Sport GT	Sport GT S	Quattroporte S
Who it's for	For comfort	For more dynamic driving	For the driver's car	For the more powerful facelifted version
Alloy wheels (most often)	19 col.	20 col.	20 col.	19 col.
Engine	4.2-litre V8, 400 hp	4.2-litre V8, 400 hp	4.2 or 4.7 l V8	4.7-litre V8, 430hp
Price in the used market (relatively)	€€	€€	€€€	€€€

For comfort, go for the Executive GT, while the Sport GT is the pick for performance. If you're after a more powerful engine, look for the 2008-onwards Quattroporte S.

Pros

Distinctive Italian styling and a unique engine note
Luxurious interior with Poltrona Frau leather
Wide range of trim levels
Good handling

Cons

DuoSelect gearbox is expensive to fix
Expensive to maintain and for parts
High fuel consumption

Frequently asked questions

How does DuoSelect differ from an automatic?

DuoSelect is an automated manual gearbox, while since 2007 a classic 6-speed ZF automatic has been offered, which is considered more convenient for daily use.

What engines does the Quattroporte V have?

4.2-litre V8 (400 hp) and from 2008 the 4.7-litre V8 (430–440 hp).

Is it worth buying a Quattroporte V?

Yes, if you have the budget for maintenance and choose a car with a full service history. It's best to opt for a car with the ZF automatic gearbox.

Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically

Generations