6-Liter Maserati to Compete in FIA GT
A new six-litre Maserati debuted in a test format at Fiorano, driven by race test driver Andrea Bertolini. The car will participate in the 2004 FIA GT championships. The car with the moniker MCC will make a public debut at Geneva in addition to a new Maserati GT car code named MCS.
Photos courtesy of Ferrari S.p.A. Web site.

Maserati is stepping up their racing investment in a big way for 2004. There will be at least three active programs this year.

The 2004 schedule for the Vodafone-sponsored Trofeo European Circuit has already been announced. The Trofeo is based on the Maserati Coupe Cambiocorsa, this series has 26 cars and began Maserati's return to racing after a 47 year absence.

Built by Maserati Corse, the racing arm of the Maserati Factory, the Trofeo Light marks the return of the Trident to racing in the US. The Trofeo Light has undergone many modifications from last year’s Trofeo in Europe. In addition to the dry weight reduction from 1370 kg down to 1150 kg, the Trofeo Light also boasts an increase in bhp to 430 at 7000 rpm, from the 413 of the standard Trofeo. Additionally, the Trofeo Light gets improved brakes, engine cooling, suspension and improved aerodynamics from widened fenders, a splitter and an adjustable rear spoiler. It has been ratified for use in the Italian GT Championship (CSAI National Trofeo Category). Scuderia Maserati of Washington plans the North American debut of the Trofeo Light for the opening round of the American Grand-Am; the Daytona 24 Hours, January 31 - February 1, 2004.

Finally, after a year of rumors, Maserati unveiled their 620 bhp, 5992 cc, 12 cylinder entry for the prestigious FIA GT race series. Maserati calls it MCC, short for Maserati Corse Competizione. It makes extensive use of carbon fiber body and chassis to come in at 1100 kg.

After its official introduction at Geneva this year you can expect full MCC participation in the 2005 FIA GT schedule. Maserati plans to introduce their MCS, their newest road going Granturismo car at the same time. That should generate a great deal of excitement and maybe a little controversy. Will Maserati provide big brother Ferrari a little competition?

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