When you hear the word “sexy” in connection with cars, it’s usually in reference to something Italian. The most popular brands that build these stylish vehicles are Alfa Romeo and Maserati, two brands known for incredible driving dynamics and easily the best looking (and best sounding) vehicles ever seen in the automotive industry. These two brands have a lot in common, but there’s plenty that also sets them apart, so we’re going to dive into what makes Alfa Romeo and Maserati the brands they are.
The histories of both Alfa Romeo and Maserati are completely wrapped up in motorsports, and racing is a major part of the identities of both brands. Maserati’s racing history predates the company itself, with the Maserati brothers getting their start in the automotive world building race cars for other teams. Alfa Romeo got started building road cars, but these were being raced in events like the Targa Florio by the end of Alfa Romeo’s first year of operation.
Alfa Romeo won the Formula 1 World Championship the first two years it existed, followed shortly by a couple of wins for Maserati, with legendary racing driver Juan Manuel Fangio driving (and winning) for both teams at various points. Going into the 1960s, both brands branched out into other forms of racing, particularly touring car racing, although Alfa Romeo enjoyed success in rallying too. Today, Alfa Romeo is active (and highly successful) in Formula 3, as well as Australian touring sedan racing, while Maserati is focused on Formula E.
2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia | 2024 Maserati Ghibli | |
---|---|---|
Starting MSRP | $46,195 | $109,500 |
Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 |
Horsepower | 280 | 424 |
Torque | 306 lb-ft | 406 lb-ft |
Scroll Right to View Information
To illustrate some of the differences between these two brands, we figured it would be easiest to show a side-by-side comparison of the midsize sedans offered by each. You can see a difference in the approach to each one right from the start. While performance is clearly a top priority for both, the Ghibli comes with a bigger and more powerful engine. That said, the engine that comes in the Giulia is more than powerful enough for spirited driving, and it comes with a more attractive starting price as well.
2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia | 2024 Maserati Ghibli | |
---|---|---|
Wheelbase | 111 inches | 118 inches |
Overall Length | 182.8 inches | 195.7 inches |
Width (without mirrors) | 73.2 inches | 76.6 inches |
Height | 56.5 inches | 57.5 inches |
Seats | 5 | 5 |
Scroll Right to View Information
There is a clear difference in size between these two models, with the Ghibli being noticeably bigger, though they both have the same number of seats. This speaks to Maserati’s history as primarily a touring car manufacturer, fitting for a brand that offers a model whose name is simply GranTurismo. Touring cars are built for impressive performance, but also to be comfortable on long trips. Alfa Romeo builds vehicles more for day-to-day use, where the practicality of fitting into parking spaces and getting better fuel economy plays a bigger role. Both ideas make for excellent cars, just different ones.
Styling is worth noting, as both vehicles are especially impressive in this area. Historically, both Alfa Romeo and Maserati have used coachbuilders, like Pininfarina and Bertone, for vehicle bodies as exotic and exciting as the driving dynamics. But both brands have grown significantly since the early days, and in-house styling is now much more common. In fact, a big part of the reason why both of these sedans are so attractive is that they were designed by the same person, Marco Tencone.
As the automotive industry embraces the possibilities that come with electrification, Alfa Romeo and Maserati have both developed models that take advantage of these advanced drivetrains. For Alfa Romeo, there is the Tonale, which comes with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain as standard equipment. This compact SUV delivers impressive performance while merely sipping fuel, making for an exciting yet practical vehicle. If you’re looking for a pure electric, then the Maserati GranTurismo Folgore is the way to go. Folgore is Italian for lightning, and the Folgore lives up to its name by not only using all-electric power, but it is also the quickest trim in the GranTurismo lineup, with a 0-60 time of just 2.6 seconds.
For all that they have in common, Alfa Romeo and Maserati have clearly defined and different roles. With Maserati building vehicles like the MC20 supercar and the GranTurismo, there is a clear emphasis on the exotic, not just with the gorgeous styling, but also in the performance and the intended uses. Alfa Romeo brings a bit more practicality to this world, with all of the same good looks and fun behind the wheel, but with the clear intent to be used for everyday tasks. But the best part is that you can’t go wrong either way, and no matter which way your tastes steer you, you’re getting something great.
You don't have any saved vehicles!
Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
(502) 894-3428
Call Now4720 Bowling Blvd • Louisville, KY 40207
Get Directions