Registration: M888 SPY
Chassis: ZAMBB18C000008616
Odometer: 59,000
Transmission: Automatic
MOT: September 2027

• Glorious 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 producing 390bhp
• Recent expenditure including cam-cover gaskets, steering components and servicing
• Offered with the particularly appropriate registration M888 SPY

The arrival of the Maserati Spyder in 2001 represented a hugely important moment in the history of the Modenese marque. Developed during Maserati's period of close technical collaboration with Ferrari, it replaced the previous twin-turbocharged philosophy with an entirely new naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 and marked Maserati's return to the North American market. Beneath the familiar Giugiaro-influenced shape was a substantially different car, with a shortened wheelbase, strictly two-seat configuration and rear-mounted transaxle giving the Spyder a distinctly sporting character.

At its heart is undoubtedly one of the great attractions of the car: the 4,244cc, 90-degree, 32-valve V8 developed during Maserati's Ferrari era. Featuring dry-sump lubrication and four overhead camshafts, it produced 390bhp at 7,000rpm and 451Nm of torque, giving the Spyder a quoted top speed of 176mph and 0-62mph performance of approximately five seconds. Even more memorable than the figures is the character of the engine itself, combining the sharp response of a naturally aspirated unit with a soundtrack that has become one of the defining features of this generation of Maserati.

This example is equipped with Maserati's Cambiocorsa transmission. Although often described simply as an automatic, it is rather more interesting than that: the system uses an electro-hydraulically operated clutch and six-speed transaxle, allowing the driver to select gears using paddles behind the steering wheel or leave the system to operate automatically. It was very much technology of its era and was intended to bring some of the flavour of contemporary Formula One-style gear selection to Maserati's road cars.

Finished in an attractive metallic blue with a contrasting cream leather interior, the vehicle remains a particularly elegant specification. The Spyder's shorter proportions arguably work especially well with the roof lowered, while its restrained styling, discreet Trident badging and four exhaust outlets give little indication at first glance of the performance available beneath the bonnet.

Showing approximately 59,000 miles, the car presents very well for its age. There are some minor age-related cosmetic imperfections around the car, as one would reasonably expect from a 23-year-old Maserati that has been enjoyed rather than hidden away, but nothing we consider particularly drastic. Overall it remains a very handsome and presentable example.

The cream leather cabin is equally attractive and provides exactly the sort of atmosphere expected from an Italian grand tourer of this period. Heavily leather-trimmed and unmistakably Maserati in its design, it contrasts beautifully against the blue exterior. There is some expected age-related wear to the leather, but the interior remains smart and inviting overall.

Importantly, there is also evidence of continued specialist attention. The accompanying invoices show maintenance carried out by Garage3R, a Maserati specialist, during recent years. A 2023 invoice records an annual service using Shell Helix Ultra oil, together with attention to the hazard-light system, replacement front lower shock-absorber bushes, wheel alignment and replacement of a nearside side-light bulb.

Further work documented during 2024 included replacement of a nearside front steering-rack gaiter, attention to dashboard switchgear and replacement lighting components. Another invoice records replacement of a rear number-plate light assembly.

More substantial maintenance is evidenced subsequently, with an invoice showing an air-conditioning service together with replacement cam-cover gaskets and spark-plug seals, representing expenditure of more than £1,500 on that visit alone. Together, the invoices provide useful evidence that the car has continued to receive specialist attention rather than simply covering limited mileage without maintenance.

A further nice touch is the registration M888 SPY, an unusually appropriate plate for a Maserati Spyder and one which suits the car exceptionally well.

Showing around 59,000 miles, accompanied by evidence of specialist maintenance and presented in a particularly attractive colour combination, this is a lovely example rather than a museum piece. There are some minor imperfections to be found, but they do little to detract from what remains a hugely charismatic Italian sports car, and one which we're told drives just as it should.