The Zonda R was developed to push the performance limits of the Zonda platform without the constraints of road-legal regulations. Although it retains the general silhouette of the Zonda, it is almost entirely new, sharing only 10% of its components with the Zonda F. Horacio Pagani has suggested that the vehicle functioned as a testbed for the Huayra, the Zonda's successor, mirroring the relationship between the Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione and the F40.
The design focuses on extreme track durability and aerodynamic efficiency. The wheelbase was lengthened by 47 mm, the overall length increased by 394 mm, and the track widened by 50 mm to improve stability. The rear bodywork is minimal and composed mostly of venting to ensure the engine remains cool during hard track use.
The Zonda R is powered by a 6.0-litre GT 112 engine, a modified version of the unit found in the Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR racing car. This AMG-built V12 produces 750 PS (552 kW; 740 hp) at 7,500 rpm and 710 N⋅m of torque. It features a lightweight carbon fiber intake system and a Formula One-style exhaust system made of hydroformed Inconel 625 with a ceramic coating. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Xtrac longitudinal manual sequential synchronized gearbox.
The chassis consists of a central carbon monocoque with an integrated roll cage and a rubber racing fuel cell equipped with four fuel pumps. The front and rear subframes are brand-new designs made of Avional to accommodate revised suspension geometry. Forged-magnesium center-lock wheels and on-board pneumatic airjacks allow for rapid wheel changes. The car also features a telemetry system that logs downforce at each wheel, allowing drivers to adjust setups based on track conditions.
The Zonda R has a claimed top speed of 375 km/h (233 mph) and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.8 seconds. Its braking system allows it to stop from 97 km/h in 29.3 meters, and it is capable of cornering at 1.25 g.
On June 30, 2010, Pagani used the Zonda R to set a new record for production-based cars at the Nürburgring, completing a lap in 6:47 and surpassing the time of the Ferrari 599XX. The car also recorded a lap time of 1:08.5 on the Top Gear test track.
Despite its performance on the Top Gear test track, the Zonda R was disqualified from the show's Power Lap leaderboard. This decision was based on the fact that the vehicle is not road-legal.
Unveiled in 2013, the Revolución is the final evolution of the Zonda R. It features a carbon-titanium central monocoque, reducing curb weight to 1,070 kg. Its M120 engine produces 800 PS (588 kW; 789 hp) and 730 N⋅m of torque. Technical upgrades include a 12-stage Bosch traction control system, a 20-millisecond gear shift time, and Brembo CCMR discs derived from Formula One technology.
The Revolución introduced a Drag Reduction System (DRS) on the rear wing with two modes. In manual mode, the driver controls the wing via a steering wheel button. In automatic mode, the system adjusts between maximum and minimum downforce settings based on algorithms, specifically triggering when lateral acceleration reaches 0.8 g and speed exceeds 100 km/h. Only five units were produced.
The Zonda R Evolution was a 2012 update featuring improved aerodynamics, including a larger front splitter and a central rear fin. While five were planned, only the original Zonda R prototype was completed to this specification before being converted into a Revolución.
A specific one-off known as the Zonda R Revolución (or "Revolución Specification") was originally a 2010 Zonda R that was returned to the factory in 2014. It received the Revolución’s aerodynamic package and an engine upgrade to 780 horsepower. This chassis sold for AU$11 million in 2024 and appeared at the 2025 Adelaide Motorsport Festival featuring decals of its Nürburgring and Top Gear records.
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