The abbreviation GT means different things to different people. The origin is Italian, gran turismo, usually translated as grand tourer. The first automobile version was a derivative of the 1930 two-seater Alfa Romeo 6C that could travel long distances without its passengers needing dental work afterward. To me, the moniker has always meant an extra level of comfort with a sporty demeanor.
On that point, Pershing and I are in accord. The GTX80 is the second model in Pershing’s GTX series, after the GTX116 that launched 18 months ago, and it glove-fits my definition of what a GT should be.
The GTX80’s profile is cleaner than Pershing’s X-line models and has additional volume forward, with about a third more space in the cockpit thanks to fold-down quarter platforms—a first for the builder. There’s also more usable space in the main salon, which occupies virtually the full 19-foot beam. Instead of side decks, crew have narrow walkways with no guardrails. The yacht’s snub nose and unbroken sheerline mimic the GTX116…
