Cool idea, less than perfect execution.
With a rich and illustrious history of making desirable cars, Maserati is one of the world's most revered automotive brands. Its latest MC20 seems like a promising return to the sports car sphere, after years of focusing on grand tourers such as the 3200GT and more recent Gran Turismo and GranCabrio.
While the upcoming Grecale SUV seems to be the center of attention in Modena, Maserati has promised a new GranTurismo. A dramatic-looking prototype has been spotted testing and reports indicate the new model will also spawn an electric variant, a first for the brand.
But it seems one Maserati fanatic just isn't able to wait for the upcoming GranTurismo, turning his Honda Accord into a replica of the previous generation. From afar, the blue-painted recreation could be mistaken for a bone fide Italian GT. But on closer inspection, the illusion slowly fades.
Up front, the GranCabrio's large grille is flanked by handmade projector headlights which suggest something is amiss. Further clues are to be found in the wheel arches, where the aftermarket wheels sit. While not from Maserati's own catalog, the 18-inch items boast the brand's Trident logo. The Accord's more traditional shape has made way for a two-door design, complete with a folding soft top.
Perhaps the most impressive part of the knock-off is the electrically-operated roof. The trunk lid opens outward, allowing the cloth roof to latch in place, like it would on the original car. The execution, though, leaves a lot to be desired. The comical conversion is also festooned with several Maserati logos, just in case any passers-by aren't sure what they're supposed to be looking at.
While admirable, the interior conversion fails to match the cabin ambiance afforded by the original. The overall shape and architecture is there, but things start to fall apart when looking at the details. Cream leather seemingly covers every inch of the dashboard, although the stitching isn't quite as meticulous as Maserati's own. The Trident logo has been embroidered onto all four headrests, while an aftermarket infotainment system and ambient lighting distract from the shoddier trimmings.
Even the sportiest Accord V6 is no match for the original GranCabrio, but the man behind this replica has worked on the exhaust to give his creation a throatier sound. While we applaud him for his passion and tenacity, this build leaves a lot to be desired. After befouling a perfectly acceptable Honda Accord, we're wondering whether the ambitious Maserati fanatic is regretting his build. Perhaps he should leave the niche sector of custom-built Maserati's to the company itself.
Keyword: Man Turns His Honda Accord Into The Maserati Of His Dreams