The ZONDA
design is the creation of Horacio Pagani, and can be summed up as the
result of the intense search for aerodynamic and ergonomic aesthetics
indelibly linked to the need to create unforgettable emotions
The ZONDA S
introduces new styling with the addition of an elongated "nose", a feature
that was already present in the first designs that Juan Manuel Fangio
looked at back in 1988. At the back of the car a focal point is the
original double air spoiler flanked by two aero flaps on the engine cover.
These changes produce better aerodynamics over the whole vehicle and
contribute to creating a strong visual impact. At the rear of the car new
light clusters have been dynamically positioned and the new series of air
intakes positioned around the four formidable exhaust pipes form an
original cornice for this feature. One gets the general impression looking
at the car of a leap forward in self-assertiveness echoed by the "jet"
effect. Great attention has been paid to studying the position of the air
intakes, the internal aerodynamics and the rear of the car. The ZONDA S is
slightly longer by 50mm while still staying within the 2730 mm standard
Progressive
and technologically advanced, the ZONDA S is the sum expression of
researching the field for technical, aesthetic and functional details that
make the difference. Open the two spacious and surprisingly light front
and rear hoods, where the carbon magic is at work, and discover the
masterpiece in engineering displayed like a sculpture, centrally, and
supported by two tubular frames in Cr-Mo steel: the whole concept
expresses total rationality.
The central
carbon tub (safety cell) is produced with absolute precision using
production standards from the aircraft industry. It forms a single body
with the anti-roll bar in Cr-Mo steel and a composite MD System. The
complex production processes involved have been patented. The front
sub-frame has an impact-absorbing function, and means that the structure
can be easily repaired; in this respect the ZONDA offers an excellent
passive safety function in the case of accident or roll-over. The rear
sub-frame supports not only the bulk of the engine but also the
sophisticated, aluminium, suspension system.
The Mercedes engine is
incredibly smooth and the noise level inside the vehicle, together with
the almost total absence of vibration - thanks to careful design -
guarantees an unprecedented degree of comfort, in this case of vehicle.
Total weight is contained within 1.250 kg, while the torsional stiffness
constitutes a record: 26.300 Nm/deg. for the ZONDA S. In fact, the car's
structure has been further reinforced to deal with the stress of the 7
liter engine. But the novelty and focal point in terms of performance is
the new Mercedes AMG V12 engine with 550 Hp max power and 750 Nm of torque
which is second to none. The excellent craftsmanship of the Mercedes AMG
technicians has produced an engine that offers an extreme and exciting
performance while respecting the highest technological standards. This
engine is docile and fluid in low gear driving and offers a power control
almost unknown in this class. To better control the increased performance
a new 6 gear transmission has been designed and will be introduced in July
also for the C12 version.
To complete the technical
picture, already excellent for this category - there is the outstanding
Brembo braking system using vented discs with four calipers front and
rear. 18" alloy wheels supplied by O.Z racing, complete the running gear.
The dynamic
personality of the ZONDA in all driving conditions make it a real object
of pleasure to use. Normally the super cars in this category don't offer
the maximum in extreme drivability. They forgo comfort, spaciousness and
real driving experiences for pure engine power. The ZONDA is far from this
kind of thinking and is admired by the real car connoisseur because it
offers a completely different experience. Road stability is excellent and
is made so by the first-rate suspension system and the rigid frame as well
as the efficient aerodynamics of the body: at a speed of 200 km/h the down
force is equal to a load of 100Kg at the front and 130Kg at the rear. In
normal driving conditions the ZONDA offers a comfortable and relaxed
driving experience. But can, on command, become a true Supercar,
unleashing the driving spirit that's in every sports car enthusiast. This
dual personality that is a feature of the ZONDA allows any driver the
distinctive pleasure of an exceptional driving experience. The pitch of
the ZONDA is clear, powerful, unforgettable: the sound of a champion
Price New :: (approximately $476,000 USD) Engine :: 7.3 Liter Mercedes-Benz M 120 V-12
Horsepower :: 555 @ 5900 rpm Torque :: 553 lb-ft @ 4050 rpm Curb Weight :: 2750 lbs/1250 kg
0-62 mph :: 3.7 seconds Top Speed :: over 220 mph