The photos, sourced by Car Platform, show the Zonda working hard despite the slippery conditions. Sideways is rightways in the rain when you're talking about the kind of RWD power found in the Zonda R.
Powered by a very hot variant of the 7.3L AMG V12 engine that underpins several other Zondas, the R model is an exercise in extremes - extreme design, extreme materials and extreme performance. Though the car has yet to take to the track in anger - at least publicly - its heavier, less powerful Zonda F stablemate already set a scorching Nurburgring lap time of 7:27.82.
However, while the Zonda F was designed from the start as a road car, the all-new Zonda R was designed with one intention in mind – ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed.
In September 2006 the first drawings were ready, but it was crucial to have the support of Mercedes-AMG for a high revving engine with a power output of 750hp (560kW), dry sump lubrication, low weight and a low centre of gravity. Peak torque is rated at a healthy 524lb-ft (710Nm). New modifications to the engine include a carbon-fiber high-flow intake, a racing multiple disc sintered clutch, and an F1-style exhaust system.
The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over. Specifications include forged suspension, a newly designed six speed transversal sequential gearbox, a full carbon-fiber monocoque body, and an aeronautical four pump fuel tank.
The wheelbase has grown by 47mm, the overall length by 394mm and the track is increased by 50mm. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been modified to offer maximum downforce. Other features include magnesium forged rims with a central wheel nut and a quick pneumatic lifting system.
The new bodywork has been honed to offer elevated downforce even in low speed corners. The longer front bonnet with flaps, closed underbody and the rear overhang with the adjustable rear wing and race derived diffuser all work to improve aerodynamics.
Pricing for the car starts at $1.87 million.
Reader Comments
Fri Sep 7 2007 10:31 PM
Gus says
Wow!
And I thought the original one looked outrageous!
Maybe it's just me, but there's too many angles and whatsits here. A little too busy for my personal taste, but as I can't afford one I'll shut up now... :)
Fri Sep 7 2007 11:05 PM
HECTOR says
It's a good thing they're limiting the production to 10 cars. That means there are only 10 chances of ever coming face to face with this overpriced monstrosity.
Sun Sep 9 2007 6:04 PM
rickybobby says
this car wuz not built to look good
paganis have always been outragous looking
Mon Sep 10 2007 5:23 PM
tom says
i want one
Tue Sep 11 2007 4:52 PM
Steve says
I really wana see one compete in LMES or ALMS
Fri Sep 14 2007 11:22 AM
A.I. says
The last bit about using the engine from a CLK GTR got me thinking, this zonda looks a lot like the original clk gtr. the gigantic rear spoiler, the roof air scoop, the general shape, all derived from a 10 year old race car.
But who cares tho the CLK GTR was one of the most awesome Le Mans cars in recent times.
Wed Mar 26 2008 4:09 AM
jason says
this is the most beautiful car ever made.
Fri Oct 24 2008 11:58 AM
SuperSkyline89 says
The Zonda is the ultimate supercar. Incredible speed and handling, and it looks simply insane.
Sun Oct 26 2008 10:46 PM
james says
i'm not so sure about the looks on this. it just doesn't look street legal in the same way that the maserati mc12 doesn't look street legal. they look like race cars meant for the track but not for the highway. that's one gargantuan spoiler...
Thu Jan 15 2009 8:56 PM
mburleigh8 says
Who ever gets the privalige to own one of these is going to have one of the most awsome cars in the world.
Fri Jan 16 2009 4:02 AM
InkMaster says
So amazing, but the price....... ugh :'(
Fri Jan 16 2009 10:13 AM
Suggs says
I have 1 thing to say
'Bring on the STIG !'
Fri Jan 16 2009 10:53 AM
SuperSkyline89 says
I just want to know if this can get the Nurburgring track record back from the Americans.
Thu Feb 5 2009 4:05 PM
brick says
Menacing. Looks like one hell of a ride if u got the money.
Thu Feb 5 2009 8:03 PM
WizardsLore says
i pitty Zonda and their attempts to somehow replace this...
Fri Feb 6 2009 8:51 AM
Ivan says
Man . . . I have no words. I can't imagine driving this thing. . . amazing car.
Fri Feb 20 2009 5:55 PM
justinhk2000 says
1 word... BEAST
Fri Feb 20 2009 6:38 PM
InkMaster says
Quote:
1 word... BEAST
2 words... HUGE SPOILER :D
Tue Mar 3 2009 6:43 PM
lester28 says
Can anyone tell me the exact name of this color? PLEASE!!
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