Maserati is more than just a name—it symbolizes speed, craftsmanship, and Italian excellence. But behind the sleek exteriors and roaring engines lies a story filled with legendary figures and groundbreaking innovations. Here are things to know about the makers of Maserati.

A Legacy Of Sibling Ingenuity

Six Maserati brothers—Carlo, Bindo, Alfieri, Mario, Ettore, and Ernesto—established the company in 1914. However, Alfieri, Ettore, and Ernesto played the most significant roles in developing the company. Maserati would never have become a luxury automotive powerhouse without their mechanical genius.

The Trident Symbol’s Mythical Inspiration

A fountain in Bologna’s Piazza Maggiore inspired Maserati’s iconic trident logo. Designed by Mario Maserati in 1920, the emblem pays homage to Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, symbolizing strength and dominion. This powerful insignia remains a defining feature of Maserati’s identity today.

The Brand’s First Road Car Debut

Maserati focused solely on racing until 1947 when the A6 1500 debuted as its first road car. Pininfarina designed it with a sleek grand tourer style and a 1.5L straight-six engine. This model introduced Maserati’s signature luxury-performance mix and influenced future icons like the 3500 GT. 

A Company Passed Through Many Hands

The brand moved from Bologna to Modena in 1940 and established its iconic Viale Ciro Menotti factory. In 2013, it expanded to Grugliasco for Quattroporte and Ghibli production, enhancing output. The Mirafiori plant in Turin joined in 2020, where the electric GranTurismo Folgore is now built, continuing Maserati’s legacy of craftsmanship with advanced technology and design.

A Move That Cemented Its Future

The brand moved from Bologna to Modena in 1940 and established its iconic Viale Ciro Menotti factory. In 2013, it expanded to Grugliasco for Quattroporte and Ghibli production, enhancing output. The Mirafiori plant in Turin joined in 2020, where the electric GranTurismo Folgore is now built, continuing Maserati’s legacy of craftsmanship with advanced technology and design.

Maserati’s Brief Stint In Formula One

Maserati once competed at the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula One. The brand debuted in the early 1950s, supplying engines and cars to privateer teams. In 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio secured his fifth and final Formula One World Championship behind the wheel of the Maserati 250F. Though Maserati officially withdrew from F1 after that season due to financial struggles, its engineering influence persisted.

Ferrari’s Surprising Involvement

For a brief period, Maserati and Ferrari shared corporate ties. In 1999, Ferrari acquired a controlling stake by integrating its technology into Maserati models. This collaboration elevated Maserati’s performance while refining its luxury appeal. The two parted ways in 2005, but Ferrari’s influence remains evident.

The Quattroporte Revolutionized Luxury Sedans

The brand disrupted the industry in 1963 by introducing the Quattroporte, one of the world’s first high-performance luxury sedans. Marrying race-bred power with opulent interiors, it redefined expectations for executive cars. Its enduring legacy continues, with modern versions pushing performance boundaries.

An Indianapolis 500 Champion

Maserati left an indelible mark on American motorsports by winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940. Wilbur Shaw piloted the 8CTF to consecutive victories, making Maserati the only Italian manufacturer to triumph at this iconic race. That legacy still resonates in racing history.

Unexpected Leap Into SUVs

Breaking tradition, Maserati introduced the Levante in 2016 and entered the competitive luxury SUV market. Unlike traditional Maserati sports cars, the Levante balanced off-road capability with signature Italian craftsmanship. It became an instant success, proving even legacy brands must evolve to survive.