The Maserati Trofeo is a racing version of the Coupé that was introduced in 2003. It utilizes the stock engine that provides 413 brake horsepower (308.0 kW) due to a revised engine mapping and a modified free-flowing exhaust that uses a baffle-free muffler. Vehicle weight was reduced by 550 pounds (249.5 kg) as a result of many stock components being stripped out: soundproofing, air conditioning, and the leather interior were left out, with the regular seats being replaced by racing seats. Carbon-fiber doors and hood replace the street car's steel components, and plexiglass replaces the side window glass. The result is a zero to 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) time of 4.0 seconds. A Trofeo racing series was organized for enthusiasts, with a per-race rental charge of about $20,000.
A Trofeo Light (or simply the Maserati Light) was also developed for use in various national and international racing series, including the Italian GT Championship, Rolex Sports Car Series, and FIA GT3 European Championship.
