Italian automaker Pagani has previously revealed plans for a track-specific version of its Zonda supercar. Now the ideals of said supercar are imbued in the Zonda R version.
According to the automaker, the new coupe was designed with “maximum performance on the race track without any rules implication except for safety.”
With the supercar equipped with a 7.3-litre V12 engine sourced from Mercedes-Benz’s AMG, it also debuted at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Said variant is intended to rival cars like the Ferrari FXX. Compared to its sibling, the Zonda F, the R variant is designed from the ground up. It only carried more than 10 percent of the components of the Zonda F.
The spark of supercar potential has been set by an Italian-American customer, enthusiast and already proud owner of 3 Zondas. He describes the project as: “The idea has been in my mind for quite some time, but I’m not interested in racing.”
The Zonda R is born with full freedom. The automaker sets the equation for best performance without compromising comfort and safety. In September of last year, the first sketches were ready, but Mercedes-AMG’s support for a high-revving engine cannot be overemphasized. The engine was inspired by the CLK GTR, which has dominated the GT championships.
What’s under the hood increased the supercar’s output to 750 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 523 pound-feet of torque. The Zonda R’s power is complemented by its high-performance parts including a sintered multi-disc racing clutch, a lightweight carbon fire intake system and a Formula 1-style exhaust system. To drive optimal heat dissipation, hydroforming in Inconel 625 was integrated into the car. Power is mated to a 6-speed manual transverse sequential synchromesh gearbox to satisfy the enthusiast’s craving for stressful driving.
In addition to the engine, the Pagani Zonda R also boasts its carbon center frame with roll cage, rubber racing aero fuel tank, four fuel pumps and fuel filler similar to that of GT racing cars. To make the supercar equation more favorable to enthusiasts, the wheelbase was increased by 47mm, the overall length by 394mm, and the track increased by 50mm. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been meticulously designed to offer maximum downforce. The longer front hood with fins, rear overhang with adjustable rear spoiler and closed underbody and race-derived diffuser translate into superb, crushing efficiency. Such features allow drivers to experience cornering speeds beyond imagination.
Although built for the track, the supercar boasts a quality, detail and finish that is unmatched by Pagani’s road cars. One of the first cars will be stored in a hall designed by Pagani. It is built from the same materials as the Zonda F. Sophisticated materials include avional, carbon fiber, titanium, inconel and other cutting-edge materials. The supercar also features a bespoke HiFi system that allows occupants to enjoy music at Le Mans and the Nürburgring.
The interior of the Zonda R is designed to accommodate the driver and passenger in custom-made seats, and these are meant to provide the best kind of support. Digitek instrumentation provides essential information and sophisticated telemetry allows through a variety of sensors to monitor all components of the car.
Weekend racing fans, as well as discerning buyers, can get the most out of the Pagani Zonda R, but they must be willing to pay a hefty sum of around $1.2 million plus tax.