- Nov 1, 2005
- 1,068
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Previous versions of the Pagani Zonda have been beautiful machines, with their hand-crafted interior and intricately-designed exterior. Matched with powerful engines, they are the perfect blend of comfort and performance. A pratical road-going, easy-to-drive supercar, you might say.
However, some customers might find the Zonda a bit too civilised. It may lap the Nürburgring in 7:32 but for some, it's simply not fast enough.
So, what do you do when you have 3 of those Zondas and just itching for something for the tracks.
Easy. Beg Mr Pagani to build you a track-going Zonda! And call it the Pagani Zonda R while you're at it.
That's what an Italo-American customer, enthusiast and already proud owner of 3 Zondas did.
The Zonda R is a track car designed with one target in mind: the ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed.
The drawings for the Zonda R was finalised in September 2006. But it was crucial to get Mercedes-AMG behind them on this project. Their engine of choice: the high-revving engine of the CLK GTR. With 750hp at tap, dry sump, light and a low CG, it was the perfect match for the lightweight supercar. The challenge was to make the engine last at least 5000km at constant racing pace before servicing. AMG snapped up the challenge without hesitation.
The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over.
The bodywork is completely redesigned to maximize downforce and increase aerodynamic efficiency. A race-derived diffuser at the back of the car pushes the car down during cornering, allowing the car to take mind-boggling quick corners. The adjustable rear wing lets you find the best setup for each track.
The car will have a new Pagani six speed transversal sequential gearbox with a racing multiple disc sintered clutch and a whole new suspension geometry. Carbon fibre monocoque, magnesium forged rims with central wheel nut and the aeronautical four pump fuel tank comes standard. The price for all of those goodies: $1.2 million. Excluding taxes.
The thirst for speed will never be quenched. In the near future, expect a Bugatti Veyron Sports Edition!
Technical Data
* Type V12 - M120
* V - angle 60°
* Displacement 5987 ccm
* Stroke 80,20 mm
* Bore 89,00 mm
* Valves per cilinder 4
* Horse Power 750
* Power output 551 KW at 7.500 1/min
* Torque output 710 Nm
* Aspiration Single throttle bodies, mechanically operated
* Lubrification Dry sump with separate oil tank
Source: Netcarshow.com
