1991 Maserati Barchetta Stradale Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Maserati Barchetta Stradale has a remarkably light curb weight of just 905 kg (1,995 lbs). This lightweight construction is fundamental to its exceptional acceleration, handling, and overall driving dynamics. A lower curb weight improves power-to-weight ratio, making the Barchetta especially nimble and responsive on the road and track. Its lightweight body combined with a powerful engine helps maximize performance while enhancing braking efficiency and reducing tire wear during spirited driving.

This model is equipped with 18-inch rims paired with wide 285/35 R18 tires. The large rim and wide tire setup contribute significantly to grip and stability, essential for a car designed with performance in mind. The 285 mm tire width provides ample contact patch, improving cornering and traction. Meanwhile, the tire profile of 35 ensures a balance between comfort and responsive handling, suitable for both road use and track conditions where the Barchetta excels.

The Maserati Barchetta Stradale’s dimensions help it fit comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of 4050 mm (159.4 inches) and width of 1965 mm (77.4 inches), it occupies slightly less space lengthwise than many modern sports cars but is relatively wide due to its performance-oriented design. Standard garages, typically around 2400 mm (8 feet) wide and 5400 mm (18 feet) deep, can accommodate the Barchetta’s footprint with ease, leaving sufficient room for opening doors and storage.

With a height of only 930 mm (36.6 inches), the Maserati Barchetta Stradale is exceptionally low-profile, emphasizing aerodynamic performance and a sports car silhouette. This low height can make entry and exit more challenging than typical road cars but greatly reduces drag and lowers the car’s center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. While it may be less practical in daily usability, this height suits its intended track-focused role and adds to its exotic appeal.

The Barchetta Stradale was a highly specialized homologation model derived from Maserati’s racing efforts and did not have a direct predecessor in the same format. However, compared to contemporary Maserati road cars of the early 1990s, such as the coupe or convertible models, the Barchetta is smaller, lower, and lighter, focused exclusively on track performance. It represents a departure from luxury GT dimensions toward a minimalistic, race-bred package emphasizing agility and lightweight construction.

At 1965 mm (77.4 inches) wide, the Barchetta Stradale is wider than many typical sports cars of its era, adding to its aggressive road presence and enhancing stability at high speeds. This wide stance contributes positively to cornering capabilities by providing a broader track, which reduces body roll and improves tire contact. Compared to similarly sized roadsters, the Barchetta’s width is a clear sign of its performance focus, offering superior lateral grip and visual impact.

The Maserati Barchetta Stradale is a cabriolet-style, lightweight sports car with a design heavily influenced by racing technology. Distinguished by its open cockpit, minimalist design, and outstanding power-to-weight ratio, it stands out as a rare homologation special built to meet racing regulations while maintaining road legality. Its uniqueness lies in its combination of exclusivity, race-ready engineering, and the fact it was produced in very limited numbers from 1992 to 1994.

Compared to other lightweight sports cars from the early 1990s, like the Lotus Elise (introduced slightly later) or some Porsche Boxster models, the Maserati Barchetta Stradale is more extreme in its racing focus and limited production. Its lower weight of 905 kg (1,995 lbs) and wide stance give it sharper handling, while the minimalistic open-cockpit design accentuates its track-oriented nature. Unlike many contemporaries, the Barchetta leans more toward a race car experience than a balanced road and track car.

With a length of 4050 mm (159.4 inches), the Maserati Barchetta Stradale is relatively compact, which is advantageous in urban environments for maneuvering and parking. Its shorter length compared to many grand tourers and traditional sports cars allows for easier navigation through tight city streets and parking spaces. However, its wide dimensions and low height may present challenges in certain urban settings, especially where vertical clearance or width-restricted parking is concerned. Overall, its compact footprint suits drivers seeking an agile, city-capable sports car with track credentials.