11.07.2004 Specialist supercar manufacturer Pagani has given the green light to bring to production a new mid-size model to complement its current Zonda C12 S

Supercar manufacturer Pagani has given the green light to bring to production a new mid-size model to complement its current Zonda C12 S.

The company, founded by ambitious Argentinian Horacio Pagani, introduced their first car, the Zonda C12 in 1999. Its initial AMG-built 7.0-litre Mercedes-Benz V12 was replaced two years ago by an even more powerful 7.3-litre engine, which boasted improved torque and power output. The revised car, known as the C12 S, now featured traction control, a new in-house designed ABS system, and more efficient aerodynamics.

Last year in Geneva Pagani introduced a roadster version of the Zonda, the Modena-based company using their cutting-edge knowledge of advanced composite materials to create an extremely lightweight and structurally rigid chassis. Use of carbon-fibre extended right down to the anti-roll bar, while breathtaking performance was guaranteed by borrowing the fixed-roof car's 7.3-litre V12 lump.

While the current Zonda sells in only tiny quantities, less than fifty are believed to have been sold so far, higher volumes will be assured once the new car, which aims to be an alternative to the Ferrari 360 Modena and Lamborghini Gallardo, hits the market in around three years time.

These 'higher volumes' however will only stretch to 250 cars per year, keeping Pagani firmly in its position as one of the world's most exclusive sportscar marques. A significant proportion of the new model's sales will be targeted at the North American market as, unlike the Zonda, it will be compliant with strict US legislation.

Pagani plan to turn out this car, nicknamed the 'baby' Zonda, from a all-new purpose built facility in Modena, and will once again look to Mercedes-Benz to provide power.

The long-term relationship between the two was cemented at last year's Geneva Salon when a deal was signed with the German giant to provide engines for the 2006 Zonda replacement. The highly rated new TT AMG V12, which was recently seen in the Chrysler ME412 concept car, is expected to be in the choice.

In the meantime, the new mid-size car will use an AMG-developed V8 engine, almost certainly drawn from the Mercedes-Benz SL 55, in supercharged form. Power is expected to be around 490bhp, while the 0-60mph dash will be achieved in under 4.5 seconds. Little more is known, expect that the Zonda's unusual quad-exit exhaust pipes are to be ditched in favour of a more conventional twin tail pipe arrangement.

Once again Pagani will focus on their leadership in advanced materials use to create an ultra-lightweight sportscar which they claim will offer extreme new performance levels for the segment. It is expected to cost up to £200,000.

by Edd Ellison & James Granger