The direct answer to Does Ford Own Maserati? is no. Ford divested its entire stake in the luxury Italian automaker in 2005, and Maserati is now fully owned by Stellantis through its Maserati brand. This shift marked the end of a decade-long partnership that began when Ford acquired a 33% stake in the late 1980s.

Does Ford Own Maserati?

Does Ford own Maserati? This is a question that car enthusiasts and luxury vehicle shoppers ask all the time. The short answer is no, Ford does not own Maserati today. But the full story is much more interesting than a simple yes or no. Maserati has a rich history that includes a period of Ford ownership, and understanding that history helps explain why the brand is where it is now.

In this article, we will explore the relationship between Ford and Maserati in detail. You will learn about the Maserati ownership timeline, why Ford got involved, and who owns Maserati today. We will also look at how this history shaped the luxury cars that Maserati builds now. Whether you are a car collector, a luxury SUV shopper, or just curious about automotive history, this guide has something valuable for you.

By the end, you will have a clear picture of the Ford-Maserati connection and why it matters for anyone interested in premium Italian vehicles. Let us dive into the story.

Key Takeaways

• Ford no longer owns Maserati; the automaker sold its stake long ago.
• Ford owned Maserati from 1993 to 2005, a brief 12-year period.
• Fiat acquired full control of Maserati in 2005, ending Ford’s involvement.
• Today, Maserati belongs to Stellantis, the global automotive giant formed by Fiat.
• Ford’s ownership shaped Maserati’s early luxury SUV and sports car ventures.
• Check Maserati’s current parent company to understand its modern luxury positioning.

The Short Answer: Does Ford Own Maserati?

To put it plainly, Ford does not own Maserati right now. Ford sold its stake in Maserati back in 2005. Today, Maserati is part of a much larger automotive group. The brand is owned by Stellantis, which is a multinational company formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group.

However, Ford did own Maserati for a significant period. This happened in the 1990s and early 2000s. During that time, Ford played a major role in shaping Maserati’s direction. So when people ask does Ford own Maserati, the answer depends on the time period we are talking about.

Here is a quick breakdown of Maserati ownership over the years:

• 1914 to 1993: Maserati was an independent Italian automaker founded by the Maserati brothers.
• 1993 to 1999: Fiat acquired Maserati and later brought Ford in as a partner.
• 1999 to 2005: Ford held a controlling stake in Maserati through a joint venture with Fiat.
• 2005 to present: Ford sold its share back to Fiat, and Maserati eventually became part of Stellantis.

So the Ford-Maserati connection is real, but it is in the past. The current Maserati ownership story involves Fiat and Stellantis, not Ford.

A Brief History of Maserati

The Founding of a Legendary Brand

Maserati was founded in 1914 in Bologna, Italy. The Maserati brothers — Alfieri, Ettore, and Ernesto — built the company with a passion for racing and engineering excellence. From the very beginning, Maserati focused on building high-performance vehicles that could compete on the track and the road.

The brand quickly earned a reputation for speed, elegance, and Italian craftsmanship. Maserati cars were not just fast. They were beautiful machines that combined style with raw power. This DNA still runs through the brand today.

Over the decades, Maserati changed hands several times. The company went through financial struggles, ownership changes, and periods of rebuilding. Each chapter in its history shaped the brand into what it is today.

Maserati’s Golden Era and Decline

By the 1950s and 1960s, Maserati was a dominant force in motorsport. The brand won numerous races and built cars that are now considered classics. The Maserati 250F, for example, is one of the most famous racing cars ever made.

But the 1970s brought financial difficulties. Maserati struggled to compete with larger automakers that had bigger budgets. The company went through bankruptcy and was eventually acquired by De Tomaso, an Argentine industrialist, in 1975. Under De Tomaso, Maserati continued to produce cars but at a slower pace and with less racing focus.

By the early 1990s, Maserati was in need of a serious investment to survive. That is where Fiat came in.

Fiat Steps In

Fiat acquired Maserati in 1993 with a clear vision. They wanted to revive the Italian luxury brand and give it the resources it needed to compete with names like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Fiat saw potential in Maserati’s heritage and decided to invest heavily in the brand.

But Fiat knew that rebuilding a luxury brand requires more than just passion. It needs engineering expertise, modern manufacturing, and a global distribution network. That is why Fiat brought Ford into the picture.

Ford’s Involvement with Maserati

How Ford Became Part of the Maserati Story

In 1999, Ford Motor Company acquired a 33 percent stake in Maserati. This was part of a broader partnership between Ford and Fiat. The two companies agreed to share technology, platforms, and resources across several vehicle segments.

For Ford, the Maserati investment was a way to enter the luxury car market without building a brand from scratch. For Maserati, Ford brought financial backing and access to modern automotive technology. It seemed like a perfect match at the time.

During Ford’s ownership period, Maserati launched several important models. The Maserati 3200 GT was one of the first cars produced under Ford’s watch. It was a stunning grand tourer that showcased Italian design with modern engineering.

The Ford Connection: What Ford Brought to Maserati

Ford’s involvement with Maserati went beyond just money. Ford shared several platforms and powertrains with the Italian brand. One of the most notable examples was the Ford Maserati Coupe, which was built on the same platform as the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra.

This platform sharing allowed Maserati to reduce development costs and bring new cars to market faster. It also meant that some Maserati models used Ford-sourced engines and transmissions during this period.

Here are some key things Ford contributed during its ownership of Maserati:

• Financial investment: Ford provided the capital needed to develop new models and update manufacturing facilities.
• Platform sharing: Several Maserati vehicles used Ford-developed platforms and components.
• Global distribution: Ford’s dealer network helped Maserati reach new markets around the world.
• Engineering support: Ford engineers worked alongside Maserati teams on various projects.

The Models That Defined Ford’s Maserati Era

Several important Maserati models came to life during the Ford ownership period. These cars helped reposition Maserati as a serious luxury competitor.

The Maserati Coupe, introduced in 1998, was a landmark model. It featured a powerful V8 engine and sleek Italian styling. The Spyder, a convertible version of the Coupe, followed shortly after and became a favorite among luxury car enthusiasts.

Then came the Maserati Quattroporte, a full-size luxury sedan that competed directly with BMW and Mercedes. The Quattroporte was a statement car. It showed that Maserati could build a world-class luxury sedan, not just sports cars.

The Maserati GranTurismo arrived in 2007, just before Ford’s departure. This grand tourer combined comfort, style, and performance in a way that captured the essence of the Maserati brand. It remains one of the most beloved Maserati models to this day.

Who Owns Maserati Now?

The End of Ford’s Ownership

Ford sold its stake in Maserati in 2005. The decision came as part of a broader restructuring of Ford’s global operations. Ford was dealing with financial challenges of its own and needed to focus on its core business.

When Ford left, it handed Maserati back to Fiat completely. Fiat now had full control of the brand and could chart its own direction without any partnership constraints.

Fiat’s Role in Maserati’s Revival

After buying back full control, Fiat invested heavily in Maserati. The company launched new models, updated existing ones, and worked to strengthen the brand’s identity as a luxury Italian automaker.

One of the most significant moves was the introduction of the Maserati Ghibli in 2013. The Ghibli was a midsize luxury sedan that brought Maserati into a new market segment. It was followed by the Maserati Levante, the brand’s first-ever luxury SUV, which proved to be a game-changer for sales.

In 2014, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) was formed through the merger of Fiat and Chrysler. Maserati became a key part of this new entity. The brand was positioned as the luxury division of FCA, similar to how Alfa Romeo serves as the sports division.

The Stellantis Era

In 2021, FCA merged with PSA Group to form Stellantis, one of the largest automotive companies in the world. Maserati is now a subsidiary of Stellantis, which also owns brands like Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, and Citroën.

Under Stellantis, Maserati continues to evolve. The brand is investing in electrification and modern technology. The Maserati Folgore, an all-electric luxury SUV, represents the brand’s future direction. This is a far cry from the Ford days, but the Italian soul of Maserati remains intact.

So when you ask does Ford own Maserati today, the answer is a clear no. Maserati belongs to Stellantis, a global automotive giant with roots in both Italy and France.

Maserati’s Current Lineup and the Ford Connection

Modern Maserati Models

Today, Maserati offers a lineup of luxury vehicles that reflects its Italian heritage and modern ambitions. The current model range includes several key vehicles that showcase the brand’s strengths.

The Maserati Quattroporte is the flagship sedan. It offers a blend of luxury, performance, and Italian elegance. The Ghibli serves as the midsize alternative and has been a strong seller for the brand. The Levante is Maserati’s luxury SUV, competing with the likes of Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Then there is the Maserati MC20, a mid-engine supercar that marks Maserati’s return to pure sports car territory. The MC20 features a proprietary twin-turbo V6 engine developed entirely in-house, signaling Maserati’s independence from shared platforms.

Is There Still a Ford Connection in Maserati Cars?

You might wonder if any Ford DNA still exists in modern Maserati vehicles. The answer is mostly no. Since Ford’s departure in 2005, Maserati has developed its own platforms and powertrains.

The current Maserati lineup uses the company’s own modular architecture. The twin-turbo V6 and V8 engines are Maserati designs. Even the transmission choices are developed in-house or sourced from other non-Ford suppliers.

However, some indirect connections remain. Maserati and Stellantis share certain components and technologies across the group. For example, some electronic systems and infotainment features may be shared with other Stellantis brands. But these are common industry practices, not a direct Ford link.

Comparing Ford and Maserati Today

It is interesting to compare where Ford and Maserati stand today. Both are storied automakers, but they serve very different markets and have very different brand identities.

Ford is a mass-market automaker known for trucks, SUVs, and affordable cars. Maserati is a luxury brand focused on premium sedans, SUVs, and sports cars. The two companies could not be more different in their target audiences and brand positioning.

Here is a quick comparison of the two brands:

Aspect	Ford	Maserati
Parent Company	Ford Motor Company (independent)	Stellantis
Market Segment	Mass market	Luxury
Key Models	F-150, Mustang, Explorer	Quattroporte, Ghibli, Levante, MC20
Country of Origin	United States	Italy
Ownership Period with Each Other	1999 to 2005	1999 to 2005
Current Relationship	No connection	No connection

This comparison shows that while Ford and Maserati shared a brief but impactful partnership, they have gone their separate ways. Today, they operate independently with different goals and strategies.

What This Means for Car Buyers

Should the Ford History Affect Your Maserati Purchase?

If you are considering buying a Maserati, you might wonder whether the Ford ownership period matters. The honest answer is that it depends on what you are looking for.

If you are interested in models from the Ford era (roughly 1999 to 2005), those vehicles may have some Ford-sourced components. This could affect parts availability and repair costs. However, Maserati models from this period are generally well-built and reliable for a luxury car.

If you are looking at newer Maserati models, the Ford connection is essentially irrelevant. Modern Maseratis are built on their own platforms with their own powertrains. The Italian engineering and design are fully in charge.

Tips for Buying a Maserati

Whether you are buying a classic model from the Ford era or a modern Maserati, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

• Check the service history: Luxury cars require regular maintenance. A well-documented service history is essential.
• Consider certified pre-owned: Maserati’s certified pre-owned program offers warranty coverage and peace of mind.
• Factor in maintenance costs: Maserati parts and service can be expensive. Budget for regular upkeep.
• Test drive multiple models: Each Maserati has its own character. The Quattroporte feels different from the Ghibli, which feels different from the Levante.
• Research resale values: Maseratis tend to depreciate faster than some competitors. This can work in your favor as a used car buyer.

The Bottom Line on Ford and Maserati

The story of Ford and Maserati is a fascinating chapter in automotive history. Ford’s involvement helped Maserati survive a difficult period and launch important new models. But that partnership ended over 15 years ago, and Maserati has charted its own course since then.

Today, Maserati is a proud Italian luxury brand under the Stellantis umbrella. It builds stunning vehicles that honor its racing heritage while embracing modern technology. The Ford chapter is a piece of history, not the current story.

If you love luxury cars and Italian craftsmanship, Maserati is absolutely worth exploring. Just remember that the brand you love today is the result of decades of evolution, not a single ownership period. The Ford era was important, but it is just one part of a much larger and more exciting story.

So the next time someone asks you does Ford own Maserati, you can share the full story with confidence. You will know the history, the current reality, and what it all means for the future of this iconic Italian brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ford Own Maserati?

No, Ford does not own Maserati. Ford previously held a stake in the luxury Italian automaker from 1993 to 2005 but sold its shares to the Fiat Group. Today, Maserati operates independently under the Stellantis umbrella, which also owns brands like Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep.

When Did Ford Stop Owning Maserati?

Ford sold its ownership stake in Maserati in 2005 to Fiat Auto SpA. During its roughly 12-year ownership period, Ford helped modernize Maserati’s production facilities and expanded its market reach. However, Ford ultimately decided to focus on its core automotive brands and divested the luxury division.

Who Owns Maserati Now?

Maserati is currently owned by Stellantis, a global automotive conglomerate formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. Stellantis also controls other well-known brands such as Alfa Romeo, Peugeot, and Citroën. While Ford is no longer involved, Maserati continues to thrive as a premium luxury car manufacturer.

Why Did Ford Sell Maserati?

Ford sold Maserati because the brand was not generating enough profit to justify the investment. The luxury market required significant resources and a dedicated focus that Ford preferred to allocate toward its own lineup. The sale to Fiat allowed Ford to streamline its operations while giving Maserati a fresh direction under Italian management.

What Is the Relationship Between Ford and Maserati Today?

Today, there is no corporate relationship between Ford and Maserati. Both companies operate independently under different parent organizations. While Ford remains a major American automaker, Maserati has carved its own path as a luxury brand focused on high-performance Italian craftsmanship.

Is Maserati Considered a Luxury Brand?

Yes, Maserati is widely recognized as a premium luxury car brand known for its elegant designs and powerful engines. The Italian manufacturer competes with other luxury names like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Despite changing ownership over the years, Maserati has maintained its reputation for producing sophisticated, high-end vehicles.