Trident on a car: what brand is it and what the owner needs to know

The trident on the hood of a car is one of the most recognizable symbols in the auto industry, which evokes associations with luxury, speed and Italian style. This logo belongs to the legendary brand Maserati, whose history goes back more than a century. But why exactly did the trident become the company’s emblem? And what nuances should those who are planning to buy or already own a car with this badge know?

Many people mistakenly confuse the trident Maserati with emblems of other premium brands, especially when it comes to older models or replicas. In this article we will analyze not only the history of the logo, but also practical aspects: how to check the authenticity of the emblem, which models with a trident are in demand on the secondary market, and what to look for when buying a used one Maserati. Spoiler: not all cars with a trident on the hood are worth the money.

Unlike mass producers, Maserati has always been positioned as a brand for connoisseurs of exclusivity. However, since 2021, the company began to more actively develop the crossover segment (for example, Maserati Levante and Grecale), which attracted new buyers. This means that the Trident can now be found not only on sports coupes, but also on family cars - and this is a game changer for the used car market.

The history of the trident: from mythology to racing tracks

Emblem Maserati in the form of a trident appeared in 1920, and its design was inspired by the Neptune Fountain in Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, the hometown of the Maserati brothers, the founders of the company. Legend has it that this particular symbol was chosen as a tribute to the city where it all began. The trident was originally red on a white background, but over time the palette evolved.

Interesting fact: until 1926, the logo did not have a blue color - it was added after winning the race Targa Florio, where driver Alfieri Maserati used a car with a blue emblem as a sign of respect for the team he supported. Since then, the trident has become associated with the racing spirit of the brand.

• 🏛️ 1914 - founding of the company by the Maserati brothers (Alfieri, Bindo, Carlo, Ettore and Ernesto).
• 🏁 1926 - first victory in Targa Florio and the appearance of blue in the logo.
• 🚗 1947 - release of the legendary Maserati A6, the brand's first production car.
• 💎 1993 — Maserati becomes part of the concern Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis).

Today, the trident is not just a logo, but a symbol of continuity. For example, on modern models (such as Maserati MC20) the emblem is made in 3D format with backlighting, which emphasizes the technological effectiveness of the brand. However, on the secondary market you often find cars with “restored” badges - and here it is important to be able to distinguish the original from the fake.

Which Maserati models have a trident: from classic to modern

The trident adorns all production models Maserati, but its design and location may vary. For example, on retro cars (like Maserati 3500 GT 1957) the emblem was metal and was bolted to the hood, whereas on the new ones Ghibli or Quattroporte it is integrated into the radiator grille and illuminated by LED lamps.

Here are the key models that are most often searched for on the secondary market:

Model	Years of production	Body type	Features of the trident
Maserati Quattroporte	1963–present	Sedan	On classic versions there is a chrome trident on the hood; on the new ones - in the radiator grille with blue backlight.
Maserati Ghibli	1967–1973, 2013–present	Coupe, sedan	On retro models, the trident was convex; on modern ones - flat, with a 3D effect.
Maserati Levante	2016–present	Crossover	The trident is integrated into the grille, often combined with vertical chrome bars.
Maserati MC20	2020–present	Sports car	The emblem is minimalistic, with a blue accent, and is illuminated when the doors are opened.

Important: on some special series (for example, Maserati Alfieri or GranTurismo Folgore) the trident may have unique details - such as a gold hue or engraving. This increases the collectible value, but also complicates authentication.

⚠️ Attention: Replicas of emblems are often found on the market. Maserati for tuning other brands (for example, Chrysler or Alfa Romeo). The original trident always has a blue color (Pantone 300 C) and clear edges - check this when inspecting it!

How to distinguish an original trident from a fake: 5 key signs

Fake emblems Maserati can cost from 500 rubles on AliExpress to 5,000 rubles in “premium” tuning studios. But how can you avoid running into a fake? Here's what to check:

1. Material and weight. The original trident is made of aluminum (on new models) or brass (on classics) and weighs from 30 to 80 grams. Plastic or too light badges are a sure sign of a fake.
2. Color palette. Blue color must comply with the standard Pantone 300 C - neither brighter nor dimmer. Fakes often use cheap paint that fades in the sun.
3. Fastening. On modern models, the emblem is fixed with high-strength double-sided tape (for example, 3M VHB). If the badge is held on by superglue or bolts, this is a reason to doubt.
4. Backlight. On cars after 2016, the trident should be illuminated when the doors are opened or the ignition is turned on. The absence of this function is a sign of replacement.
5. Serial number. On the reverse side of the original emblem there is always an engraving with the part code (for example, 82643920000 for Ghibli 2020).

If you are buying used Maserati, be sure to check the VIN code with the database Stellantis (via service official website). If the emblem number does not match the year of manufacture of the car, this is a red flag.

How much does a car with a trident cost: prices and pitfalls

Cost Maserati on the secondary market varies from 1.5 million rubles per Quattroporte 2010 up to 20+ million for MC20 2023. However, the price depends not only on the model, but also on the service history. For example, Ghibli with a mileage of 50,000 km and a full service book, it can cost 30% more than a similar copy without documents.

Here are the estimated prices for popular models (data for 2026, Moscow and regions):

• 💰 Maserati Quattroporte V (2013–2018) — 2.5–4 million rubles. (diesel is cheaper than gasoline versions).
• 💰 Maserati Ghibli III (2017–2023) — 3–5.5 million rubles. (hybrid versions are 20–25% more expensive).
• 💰 Maserati Levante (2016–2022) — 3.5–6 million rubles. (crossovers with Q4 all-wheel drive are valued higher).
• 💰 Maserati GranTurismo (2008–2019) — 4–7 million rubles. (models with the Ferrari 4.7 V8 engine are the most expensive).

⚠️ Attention: There are many on the market Maserati with “gray” import schemes (imported from the USA or UAE without customs clearance). Such cars can be 30–40% cheaper, but they cannot be registered legally with the traffic police. Always check customs documents!

Critical part: engines Maserati after 2014 (especially 3.0 V6 twin-turbo) are sensitive to fuel quality. If the previous owner refueled at dubious gas stations, be prepared to incur expenses for cleaning injectors (from 50,000 rubles) or replacing turbines (from 300,000 rubles).

Tuning and modifications: is it possible to change the trident?

Many owners Maserati want to personalize their car, and the trident is the first part they try to modify. However, there are legal and technical nuances here:

• ⚖️ Legislation: In Russia, it is prohibited to change factory emblems if this misleads other road users (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code). For example, you cannot place a trident on Kia, but you can paint the original emblem in a different color.
• 🔧 Technical risks: On backlit models (such as MC20) replacing the emblem can lead to errors in the on-board computer. In some cases, firmware is required.
• 💸 Cost: Official tuning kit from Maserati (for example, a carbon trident for Levante) will cost 150,000–250,000 rubles.

Popular tuning areas:

1. Replacing with a "retro" version of the trident (for example, with Maserati Mistral 1960s).
2. Installing backlighting on older models (requires electrical intervention).
3. Painting the emblem in body color (matte or glossy).
4. Replacement with a "sports" version (for example, trident from MC20 on Ghibli).

Important: If you plan to sell the car in the future, avoid making drastic changes. Collectors and dealers often mark down the price for aftermarket parts.

What happens if you put a trident on a different stamp?

At best, a fine of 500 rubles. for “non-standard elements” (Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code). At worst, there are problems during maintenance or sale (buyers may doubt the authenticity of the car). In addition, some insurance companies refuse to pay compensation in case of an accident if the car has uncertified modifications.

Maintenance and repair: what a Maserati owner needs to know

Cars with a trident require a special approach to maintenance. Here are the key points:

• 🛢️ Oil and filters: Replacement interval is every 10,000 km or once a year (even if the mileage is less). Use only synthetics 5W-40 with permission Maserati MS.9000.
• ⚡ Electronics: System Maserati Touch Control Plus (on models after 2018) is sensitive to voltage changes. Always disconnect the battery when welding.
• 🔥 Turbines: On V6 and V8 engines, turbines last 150,000–200,000 km with proper operation. Avoid sudden starts on a cold engine!
• 🎨 paintwork: Paint on Maserati soft - even small scratches require polishing. For protection, use a ceramic coating (from RUB 30,000).

Cost of maintenance in the official service:

Maintenance type	Mileage	Cost (RUB)	What's included
TO-1	10,000 km	25 000–35 000	Oil change, filters, diagnostics
TO-2	30,000 km	50 000–70 000	+ replacing the air filter, spark plugs
TO-3	60,000 km	90 000–120 000	+ replacing brake fluid, timing belt (on some models)

⚠️ Attention: Some service stations refuse to take on Maserati due to the difficulty of diagnosis. Always check whether the specialist has experience working with Stellantis and special software (for example, WiTech 2.0).

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Regular maintenance from an official dealer is expensive, but saving on a “garage” service often leads to expensive breakdowns. For example, unqualified replacement of a timing belt with Quattroporte V6 may result in a major engine overhaul (from 1 million rubles).

Alternatives to Maserati: which brands offer similar emotions?

If you like the style Maseratibut budget or practicality doesn't allow you to buy a trident machine, consider these alternatives:

• 🏎️ Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio — the same Ferrari V6 engine (510 hp), but 30–40% cheaper.
• 💎 Jaguar F-Type - British sporty character, prices from 3.5 million rubles. on the secondary side.
• 🔥 Porsche Panamera - more reliable electronics, but less emotional design.
• 🚘 Genesis G90 — Korean luxury with a 5-year guarantee, prices from 4 million rubles.

However, none of these cars will produce the exhaust sound that the Maserati V8 - it's like comparing a symphony orchestra with a rock band. If Italian passion is important to you, then there are simply no alternatives.

At the same time, it is worth remembering that Maserati - this is not only prestige, but also high maintenance costs. For example, CASCO insurance for Ghibli will cost 1.5–2 times more than Audi A6 similar cost. And spare parts (for example, a headlight for Quattroporte) can cost as used Volkswagen Polo.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Maserati and its emblem

🔍 Why is the Maserati trident sometimes golden?

The golden trident was installed on special series, for example, Maserati GranTurismo Zéda (2022) or Levante Trofeo. Also, gold parts can be part of tuning packages from Maserati Fuoriserie (customization division). On the secondary market, such cars cost 10–15% more than standard versions.

🚗 Is it possible to drive a Maserati in winter?

Technically yes, but with caveats:

• All-wheel drive models (Quattroporte Q4, Levante) cope better than rear-wheel drive ones.
• Winter tires are mandatory - even on MC20 With “summer” tires, the car can skid on ice.
• The V8 engine consumes more oil in cold weather - check the level every 1,000 km.

Owners recommend insulating the battery and using a pre-heater (for example, Webasto).

💰 How much does it cost to replace a trident from an official dealer?

The cost depends on the model:

• Ghibli/Granturismo: 15,000–25,000 rub. (including work).
• Quattroporte/Levante: 20,000–35,000 rub. (due to the difficulty of dismantling the grille).
• MC20: up to 50,000 rub. (re-flashing of the on-board computer is required).

On classic models (before 2000), replacement is cheaper - 5,000–10,000 rubles, but finding the original emblem is more difficult.

🔧 What to do if the trident falls off?

The reasons may be different:

1. The double-sided tape has expired (you need to clean the surface and stick a new badge).
2. The radiator grille is damaged (the plastic needs to be replaced or repaired).
3. Corrosion of fasteners (relevant for older models with metal emblems).

Do not use superglue - it may damage the paintwork. It is better to contact the service or buy an original mounting kit (article no. 82643920000).

📜 How to check Maserati by VIN before buying?

Steps to check:

1. Obtain the VIN (located on the windshield, in the doorway or in the vehicle title).
2. Check history via VIN.history or CarVertical (the cost of the report is 500–1,000 rubles).
3. Check the data against the database Stellantis (through the dealer) - especially if the car was imported from abroad.
4. Please note:
• Number of owners (the fewer the better).
• Mileage (compare with service book).
• Road accident records (even minor damage can affect the geometry of the body).

If there are gaps in the history (for example, the car has not been serviced for 2-3 years), this is a reason to bargain or refuse to purchase.