Unveiled at the 2005 Geneva Auto Show, The Zonda F is one of the fastest supercars ever made. Built using Pagani's extensive experience in carbon fibre construction, the Zonda is leader with regard to fit and finish. With this car, Pagani Automobili is among a small group of independent supercar manufacturers that challenge more established competition such as Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini.
During the outset of the Zonda project, Juan Manuel Fangio consulted and influenced Horacio Pagani on every aspect of the Zonda. Horacio says Fangio had great 'technical sensibility' and was a major source of inspiration for his car. Thus, it should come to no surprise that Pagani's latest work pays tribute to the late Fangio, a world champion five times over.
Zonda F is a special edition car that will be built alongside the regular production model. It takes the modifications adapted to the C12-S Monza and refines them into a more appealing package. As a result the Zonda F is lighter, more powerful and faster than its predecessor.
Aerodynamics play large role in shaping Zonda's new car. More traditional devices include a one-piece fixed wing which now gets undisturbed air thanks to relocated mirrors. To help airflow underneath, a larger front splitter and rear diffuser with twin stabilizing wings create even more downforce. At the front of the Zonda F is a much larger air intake to increase cooling effectiveness of the more potent V12 engine.
To give the Zonda F more power, a new induction system is used which replaces the standard Mercedes-Benz unit. It features larger intake apertures and, when combined with a larger, hydroformed exhaust, the 7.3 liter Mercedes-Benz engine reaches 620 bhp. This is up from 550 achieved with the standard Mercedes intake. A clubsport model is available as an option which increases power to 650 bhp @ 6200 rpm.
The chassis receives several upgrades which lighten both the overall and unsprung weight of the Zonda. Newly designed 19 and 20 inch wheels make room for much larger brakes which can now be ordered in a ceramic compound for the first time. Combined with the titanium wheel nuts, and various trimmings of the carbon fiber tub, the Zonda F weighs 1230 kgs without liquids.
After all these changes it should come to no surprise that Pagani has made a much superior Zonda. With 650 bhp on tap, the clubsport model should easily rival cars including the Porsche Carrera GT and Ferrari Enzo.
General specifications
Country of origin Italy
Numbers built 27
Produced from 2005 - 2009
Introduced at 2005 Geneva Motor Show
Predecessor
Pagani Zonda C12 S 7.3
Body design Horacio Pagani
Engine
Configuration Mercedes-Benz AMG 60ยบ V12
Location Mid, longitudinally mounted
Construction light alloy block and head
Displacement 7.291 liter / 444.9 cu in
Bore / Stroke 91.5 mm (3.6 in) / 92.4 mm (3.6 in)
Valvetrain 4 valves / cylinder, DOHC
Fuel feed Fuel Injection
Aspiration Naturally Aspirated
Power 602 bhp / 449 KW @ 6150 rpm
Torque 760 Nm / 561 ft lbs @ 4000 rpm
BHP/Liter 83 bhp / liter
Drivetrain
Chassis carbon fibre monocoque
Suspension (fr/r) double wishbones, pull rod actuated coil springs, Ohlins adjustable shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Steering rack-and-pinion, power assisted
Brakes ventilated discs, all-round
Gearbox 6 speed Manual
Drive Rear wheel drive
Dimensions
Weight 1230 kilo / 2711.7 lbs
Length / Width / Height 4435 mm (174.6 in) / 2055 mm (80.9 in) / 1141 mm (44.9 in)
Wheelbase / Track (fr/r) 2730 mm (107.5 in) / N/A / N/A
Performance figures
Top Speed 345 km/h (214 mph)
0-60 mph 3.5 s
Pagani Zonda F Pictures
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