- MCXtrema was the first customer unit delivered in 2024.
- It uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 making 730 hp on track.
- The auction was withdrawn after bidding hit $751,000.
Update: In statements issued to Carscoops, both the owner of the MCXtrema and Maserati itself provided further information for this story.
The owner, Gabriele Vignaroli, wrote: “It’s come to my attention that there are misconceptions around my prior MCXtrema listing on Bring a Trailer, so I want to clarify my position to avoid further incorrect speculation. I have a very close relationship with Maserati, and I pulled the listing from the auction site myself after confirming there are contractual transfer restrictions tied to the MCXtrema program – simple as that.”
In a separate statement, Maserati said: “Maserati is aware of the recent online listing involving an MCXtrema. As part of the MCXtrema program, owners agree to specific contractual obligations regarding transfer during the initial ownership period. These measures are intended to preserve the integrity of the program and ensure the car remains in the hands of clients committed to its proper stewardship and use. Maserati’s priority is to ensure customer satisfaction while safeguarding the brand’s value and reputation. Because those obligations had not been satisfied, the seller was not able to proceed with the listing, and it was withdrawn. Maserati does not comment on the details of private customer agreements.”
Original story follows
Getting hold of one of Maserati’s most extreme creations isn’t easy, even if you have the money ready. The MCXtrema is a track-only evolution of the MC20, built in a limited run of just 62 units for serious drivers and high-end collectors. But unless you’re buying directly through Maserati, securing one could prove more difficult than expected.
Read: Maserati MCXtrema Hits The Track And Sounds Amazing Doing It
Late last month, the very first customer-owned MCXtrema popped up for auction on Bring a Trailer. The car had just 228 km (141 miles) on the clock and was originally handed over to its first owner during the 2024 Monterey Car Week. Not long after, it was picked up by a dealer, likely with a flip in mind and the hope of turning a profit.
Soon after the listing went live on BaT, bidding reached $751,000 before the auction was abruptly withdrawn. The reason? Maserati stepped in and didn’t want the car changing hands.
What Happened?
According to the auction website, Maserati of North America said the automaker was restricting the sale of this particular MCXtrema. No explanation was given for why Maserati opposed the resale, especially since the car had already changed hands once.
“The selling dealer of this car has communicated to us that they are regrettably unable to proceed with the auction,” BaT wrote in the comments section. “After engaging in a dialogue with Maserati of North America, they have been made aware that Maserati is restricting the sale of this car. The seller demonstrated transparency and openness throughout our interactions regarding this issue, as well as expressing frustrations, and we appreciate their approach.”
BaT added, “We obviously cannot put the eventual winning bidder into a problematic post-auction situation, so we have withdrawn the auction, a step we never take lightly.”
Restriction Sparks Backlash
Bring a Trailer
News of the pulled listing didn’t sit well with everyone. Some users on the site’s forum expressed frustration, questioning the brand’s motives and its handling of a moment that could have brought some excitement.
“For the first time in years, there’s finally some excitement around a new Maserati… and Maserati of North America finds yet another way to mess it up,” one commenter wrote. Another added, “perhaps they [Maserati] should restrict the sale of all their other models that hold values like used Kleenex.”
The MCXtrema shares its basic layout with the MC20 but dials everything up to 11. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 has been pushed to 730 hp, paired with a new six-speed sequential gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential, all driving the rear wheels. Built strictly for the circuit, it’s designed to deliver serious performance with no concern for road legality.
