Like international screen siren Sophia Loren, the 2005 Maserati Quattroporte’s timeless Italian beauty speaks volumes about its culture and class. Across the parking lot, our Quattroporte awaited a test drive, cloaked in gorgeous sheetmetal draped ever so skillfully over its voluptuous curves, making instantly clear to any onlooker that this is no ordinary car.

In a confirmed enthusiast, just the sight of the Quattroporte can make the heart race, perspiration bead, and muscles quiver with anticipation. With the keys to the ignition in hand, the effect is quadrupled. Emblazoned with a dominant trident badge in the center of the massive grille, the Quattroporte’s appearance and pedigree intoxicate, casting a spell even before the big V8 engine under the hood roars to life. Driving the Quattroporte, caressing the soft leather steering wheel rim while goosing its Ferrari-sourced engine through the accelerator pedal, is like a triple-shot dose of espresso, setting every nerve on full alert.

Indeed, the Maserati Quattroporte is not just about looks. This is one wonderful sedan that is just as pleasurable to drive as it is to view through star-crossed eyes.