The car in dark blue with a natural hide interior is armour-plated and fitted with a range of personalised options selected by the President. The car can be distinguished from other Quattroporte by the two flag holders on the front wings.

In 2003, President Ciampi visited the Maserati factory in Modena and was given an exclusive preview of the new Quattroporte. Such was his interest in the car that the first armour-plated car was assigned to him. The car was then officially unveiled to the world at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

In a private ceremony held a few days later, Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi also received a Maserati Quattroporte from the Luca di Montezemolo.The colour of this car is Palladio Grey, with a beige interior and rosewood inlays inserts.

This car, like that delivered a few days ago to the President of the Republic, Ciampi, includes many protective security features. The Quattroporte was personalised according to the specific requests of the Prime Minister. Like the President of the Republic’s model, the car bears the classic flag masts over the front wheel arches.

Other Government figures will take delivery of their Quattroporte over the coming months.

The last President to use a Maserati Quattroporte was Sandro Pertini during the 1980s together with Giovanni Spadolini, then President of the Senate.

Text/Photos: Maserati