The GranSport was presented at the Geneva Motor Show to great acclaim. Its design was based on a new version of the coupé’s V8 engine, tuned to develop 400 bhp. The engine’s maximum power was increased by special developments to reduce internal friction, improvements to the intake manifolds and valve seats, and electronically controlled pneumatic valves. A new sports exhaust system (immediately recognisable by its chrome twin pipes) was designed to give the engine a deep, intense purr.