Maserati expanded its GranTurismo range in Paris with the introduction of the new GranTurismo Convertible MC, essentially the drop-top version of the GranTurismo MC coupe that went on sale last year. In Europe, the car is known as the GranCabrio MC, but in the U.S. it will carry the longer GranTurismo Convertible MC moniker.

For MC spec, designers have taken the basic GranTurismo Convertible package and added a more aerodynamic body based on the design of the GranTurismo race car from Maserati’s one-make Trofeo MC World Series. This makes the GranTurismo Convertible MC slightly longer than the standard model, and able to produce greater downforce.

Power comes from the GranTurismo’s familiar 4.7-liter V-8 engine, which in its latest tune develops 453 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Matched to a ZF six-speed automatic transmission, the V-8 will propel the GranTurismo Convertible MC from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and see it go all the way to a top speed of 179 mph.

Look for the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC in showrooms by next summer. To read up on all the specs and watch a video, check out our detailed preview piece, and for more from the 2012 Paris Auto Show, head to our dedicated show page.