The First Customer Maserati MCXtrema Appeared at Auction, But the Sale Was Blocked by the Company Itself
Getting hold of one of Maserati’s most extreme creations is not easy, even if you have the necessary funds. The MCXtrema is the track version of the MC20 model, released in a limited series of just 62 units for true driving enthusiasts and collectors. However, if you are not buying the car directly through Maserati, acquiring it may prove more complicated than expected.
Sale Attempt and Manufacturer Intervention
At the end of last month, the first customer MCXtrema appeared on the Bring a Trailer auction. The car had only 228 km on the odometer and was originally delivered to its first owner during Monterey Car Week 2024. Shortly thereafter, it was purchased by a dealer, likely for the purpose of a quick resale and profit.
After the lot appeared, bids reached $751,000, but the auction was suddenly withdrawn. The reason? Maserati itself intervened, not wanting the car to change hands.
According to the auction site, Maserati of North America reported that the manufacturer is restricting the sale of this particular MCXtrema example. No explanations for the reasons behind this decision were provided, especially considering the car had already changed hands once.
“The dealer selling this car informed us that, unfortunately, they cannot proceed with the auction. After a dialogue with Maserati of North America, they learned that Maserati is restricting the sale of this vehicle. The seller demonstrated transparency and openness throughout all our interactions on this matter and expressed disappointment, and we appreciate their approach.”
“Obviously, we cannot put the auction winner in a problematic situation after its completion, so we withdrew the lot, which is always a significant step for us.”
Community Reaction to the Restriction
The news of the lot’s withdrawal sparked a mixed reaction. Some users on the site’s forum expressed disappointment, questioning the brand’s motives and its actions in a situation that could have generated some excitement.
“For the first time in many years, there was excitement around a new Maserati… and Maserati of North America finds yet another way to ruin everything.”
“Perhaps they should restrict the sale of all their other models that hold their value like used napkins.”
Technical Features of the MCXtrema
The MCXtrema is based on the MC20 platform, but all characteristics are pushed to the maximum. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine develops 730 hp, paired with a new six-speed sequential gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential, driving the rear wheels. Created exclusively for the track, the car is designed for serious results without any constraints of road legality.
This story points to the complex dynamics between manufacturers of exclusive cars, their customers, and the secondary market. Maserati’s actions aimed at controlling the distribution of its rarest products raise questions about ownership rights and the freedom to dispose of property after purchase. While the brand likely aims to avoid quick resales at a markup that could tarnish exclusivity, such steps may cause backlash among the very collectors the product is intended for. It also demonstrates how narrow the niche of track supercars is, where every deal can become a subject of public discussion and manufacturer intervention.