Words, at times, do not substitute for experience. Yet, like catching a glimpse of a favorite celebrity, such as Sophia Loren, spotting this slinky Italian rolling down the road is sometimes a reasonable consolation for a seat behind the wheel because if metal, wood and leather can be a substitute for flesh, blood and bone, the 2005 Maserati Quattroporte is it.

Specifications
Test Vehicle: 2005 Maserati Quattroporte
Price of Test Vehicle: $119,700 (includes $1,350 destination charge and $3,700 gas guzzler tax)
Engine Size and Type: 4.2-liter V8
Engine Horsepower: 395 at 7,000 rpm
Engine Torque: 326 at 4,500 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed sequential manual
Curb weight, lbs.: 4,253
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 12/15 mpg
Length: 198.9 inches
Width: 74.6 inches
Wheelbase: 120.6 inches
Leg room (front/rear): 42.5/NA
Head room (front/rear): 36.5/35.0 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: Five
Max. Cargo Volume: 8 cubic feet
Competitors: Audi A8 L, Bentley Continental Flying Spur, BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ Super V8 Portfolio, Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Photos courtesy of Maserati