Mat Watson and the carwow team assembled Maserati’s complete lineup of 2026 high-performance internal combustion models for a comprehensive drag race, pitting four versions of the brand’s twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 against one another to determine which delivers the strongest real-world performance.
Although every contender shares the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 architecture, differences in power output, drivetrain configuration, weight, and vehicle purpose create a fascinating matchup.
Representing the SUV segment is the Grecale Trofeo, producing 530 horsepower and 620 Nm of torque. Its all-wheel-drive system provides excellent launch traction, but at 2,027 kilograms it is also the heaviest vehicle in the field. The performance SUV carries a price tag of approximately £106,000.
The grand touring entry is the GranTurismo Trofeo, which raises output to 550 horsepower and 650 Nm while retaining all-wheel drive. Weighing 1,795 kilograms, it offers a notable weight advantage over the Grecale and enters the competition at around £151,000.
Moving into supercar territory, the MCPura Cielo features a significantly more potent version of the Nettuno V6, generating 630 horsepower and 720 Nm. Unlike its AWD rivals, all of its power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. Despite the drivetrain disadvantage, its relatively light 1,560-kilogram curb weight and £236,000 price position it as one of the race favorites.
Leading the lineup is the track-focused GT2 Stradale. Delivering 640 horsepower and 720 Nm through a rear-wheel-drive layout, it is both the lightest competitor at just 1,465 kilograms and the most expensive at £277,000.
The standing quarter-mile runs produced an unexpected result. Despite the GT2 Stradale’s higher output, the MCPura Cielo edged it by the narrowest of margins, with both cars recording identical 10.9-second quarter-mile times. The GranTurismo Trofeo followed with a 12.0-second run, while the heavier Grecale Trofeo completed the sprint in 12.2 seconds.
Rolling acceleration further highlighted the GT2 Stradale’s aggressive calibration, allowing it to dominate higher-speed contests where traction played a smaller role. The GranTurismo also impressed with strong mid-range performance, while the Grecale exceeded expectations by staying remarkably competitive despite its size and weight.
A concluding 100-mph brake test reinforced the GT2 Stradale’s motorsport pedigree, delivering the shortest stopping distance of the group. Overall, the comparison showcased how Maserati has tailored the same Nettuno V6 into four distinctly different performance machines, each excelling in its intended role while demonstrating the versatility of the Italian marque’s flagship powertrain.
Source: carwow
