The Pagani Zonda C12 S plays the leading role in a new an ambitious project by Toine Hezemans. Under the banner of a newly created company, Carsport Modena, Hezemans is developing a race version of the Pagani Zonda C12 S. Massimo Del Prete (former Audi engineer) and the creator of the Zonda and Horacio Pagani, are key figures in the developing proces. Financial partners in Carsport Modena are, Paul Kumpen (BEL) and Tom Weickardt (USA). The goal of this project, Le Mans. 

Carsport Modena has acquired the worldwide rights to develop, build and sell the GTS racer. This season the main objective will be the development of the car so a customer version will be available in 2004. Toine Hezemans: "In the end we hope we can play a role just like ORECA did with the Viper. The car has been built from scratch in just 3.5 months, which is a major achievement that would not have been possible without the dedication of our employees". 

The project is on a tight time schedule, not only the car but also the engine is an in-house project. The 6 liter V12 Mercedes engine will be developed and tuned in co-operation with BTD in Belgium. The rear bodywork of the car has been narrowed by 4 cm to meet the regulations. The front section has been widened. The gearbox is a Hollinger 6-speed sequential. The weight of the car will be 1100 kg. 

To meet the regulations the Pagani will have to do one race prior to Le Mans, this will be the 12 hours of Sebring. Sebring is known as one of the thoughest races around. Under the banner of Carsport America (newly founded team by the three partners) one Pagani has been entered in the GTS class. Confirmed drivers are Mike Hezemans (NED) and Anthony Kumpen (BEL). 

The Pagani will for sure attract a lot of attention at Sebring but the expectations must be realistic. The opposition in the GTS class is fears with cars like the Corvette and the Ferrari 550. "The car has some interesting qualities that we have to explore, but the potential will come out in the end. Sebring will be one big test for us", explains Toine Hezemans. 

Time schedule: 

21-02-2003: Homologation inspection by ACO 
27-02-2003: Roll out and shake down at Adria International Raceway, Italy 
01-03-2003: Presentation to the worldwide press in Hasselt, Belgium 
03-03-2003: Car will be shipped to the USA 
07-03-2003: Testing at Sebring, Florida, USA ( 2 days )
15-03-2003: Start of the 12 hours of Sebring 

16.01.2003  NEW TEAM CARSPORTS ZONDA PREPARES TO ENTER ALMS SERIES
12.03.2002  NEW MODELS: PAGANI ZONDA C12S 7.3