Certified Benz & Beemer Compares 2013 Maserati GranTurismo VS 2012 Audi R8 Near Scottsdale, AZ

Both the GranTurismo and the R8 have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact head airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, height adjustable front shoulder belts, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control and electronic stability systems to prevent skidding.

The R8’s redline is at 8250 to 8700 RPM, which causes more engine wear, and a greater chance of a catastrophic engine failure. The GranTurismo has a 7200 RPM redline.

The GranTurismo has more powerful engines than the R8:

The GranTurismo has 2.9 gallons more fuel capacity than the R8 V10 Plus’ standard fuel tank (22.7 vs. 19.8 gallons), for longer range between fill-ups.

The GranTurismo stops much shorter than the R8:

For better traction, the GranTurismo has larger front tires than the R8 (F:255/35R20 & R:295/35R20 vs. F:235/35R19 & R:295/30R19). The GranTurismo’s front tires are larger than the largest tires available on the R8 (255/35R20 vs. 235/35R19).

For better ride, handling and brake cooling the GranTurismo has standard 20-inch wheels. Only 19-inch wheels are available on the R8.

For a smoother ride and more stable handling, the GranTurismo’s wheelbase is 11.5 inches longer than on the R8 (115.8 inches vs. 104.3 inches).

The GranTurismo’s front to rear weight distribution is more even (48.5% to 51.5%) than the R8’s (44% to 56%). This gives the GranTurismo more stable handling and braking.

The GranTurismo handles at .98 G’s, while the R8 4.2 FSI pulls only .94 G’s of cornering force in a Motor Trend skidpad test.

The GranTurismo goes through Road & Track’s slalom faster than the R8 4.2 FSI (71 vs. 70.2 MPH).

For better maneuverability, the GranTurismo’s turning circle is 3.6 feet tighter than the R8’s (35.1 feet vs. 38.7 feet).

The design of the Maserati GranTurismo amounts to more than styling. The GranTurismo has an aerodynamic coefficient of drag of .33 Cd. That is lower than the R8 (.33 to .36). A more efficient exterior helps the GranTurismo go faster and keeps the interior quieter. It also helps the GranTurismo get better fuel mileage.

The GranTurismo has standard seating for 4 passengers; the R8 can only carry 2.

The GranTurismo has a much larger trunk than the R8 (9.2 vs. 3.5 cubic feet).