We say The Quattroporte is a curiosity - a sports car engine in a coupe saloon. A fascinating, if slightly flawed, proposition.Performance The Quattroporte’s 400bhp 4.2-litre V8 and is fast and responsive. The engine is fun and all models clear 60mph within six seconds, but the semi-auto box with paddle shift controls is rubbish.Emissions 19.2mpg and 345g/km is as good as it gets in the Maserati Quattroporte.Driving Great body control and grip in the Quattroporte, but not so good around town. Good cruiser for motorway work.Feel Too much wind noise, and the engine isn't particularly quiet either, though that one's a judgment call. Generally the Quattroporte is a refined grand cruiser, however.Space Rear seating in the Quattroporte isn't massive, with space for four only, realistically. Big boot at 450 litres though.Equipment Loads of aesthetic choices. At higher levels there's even massaging seats.Price Compares favourably to some notable competitors, though it’s hard to place in a particular segment. Running costs are unsurprisingly poor.Quality Good standard of quality inside; looks superb for a saloon. Some question marks about earlier Quattroporte’s reliability.Safety The Maserati Quattroporte has tonnes of safety kit, including four-channel ABS with electronic brake distribution.Pros Great engine, stunning looks, good to drive, loads of novel kit.Cons Auto box is a letdown, questionable how practical it is.Alternatives Bentley Continental, Jaguar XJ, Jaguar XK