The Pagani Zonda Cinque Tricolore is an extremely limited-production, high-performance sports car built by Italian manufacturer Pagani Automobili in 2010. Part of the broader Zonda family, the Cinque Tricolore was created as a tribute to the 150th anniversary of Italian unification, with the “Tricolore” referencing the colors of the Italian flag. Only five examples were ever produced, making it one of the rarest Zonda variants. It represents the culmination of years of development of the Zonda platform, pushing the boundaries of performance and exclusivity. The vehicle was positioned at the very top of the Zonda lineup, exceeding even the already potent Zonda R in terms of price and collectibility.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Pagani |
| Model | Zonda |
| Generation | Zonda Cinque |
| Type | Tricolore 7.3 V12 (678 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 1.8 kg/Hp, 560.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 1.6 kg/Nm, 644.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 678 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93 Hp/l |
| Torque | 780 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 575.3 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 7291 cm3, 444.92 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1210 kg, 2667.59 lbs |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/35 R19; 335/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Zonda Cinque Tricolore is a naturally aspirated 7.3-liter V12 engine, derived from a Mercedes-AMG design but heavily modified by Pagani. This engine, internally designated as the M120S, produces 678 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 575.3 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a dry-sump lubrication system, crucial for maintaining oil pressure during the extreme cornering forces the car is capable of. Fuel is delivered via electronic fuel injection, and the engine utilizes four overhead camshafts controlling four valves per cylinder. The exhaust system is constructed from lightweight titanium, contributing to both weight reduction and a distinctive exhaust note. The six-speed automatic transmission is a key differentiator from some other Zonda models, offering a more accessible driving experience, though it doesn’t quite match the raw engagement of a manual gearbox. The transmission is specifically tuned for rapid shifts and optimized for the engine’s power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The Zonda Cinque Tricolore delivers breathtaking performance. The combination of the powerful V12 engine and the relatively lightweight construction (1210 kg or 2667.59 lbs) results in a 0-60 mph time of just 3.2 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds. The automatic transmission, while providing convenience, alters the driving experience compared to the manual Zondas. Gear changes are quick, but lack the direct connection felt with a manual. The car’s mid-engine layout and sophisticated suspension – featuring double wishbones at both the front and rear – provide exceptional handling and stability. The Tricolore is known for its precise steering and ability to inspire confidence even at very high speeds. However, the car’s uncompromising nature and lack of driver aids require a skilled driver to fully exploit its potential.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given its limited production run and ultra-high price point, the Zonda Cinque Tricolore was largely bespoke. The interior is lavishly appointed with carbon fiber trim, leather upholstery, and aluminum accents. Standard features included air conditioning, a high-end audio system, and power windows. However, the emphasis was on minimizing weight, so many luxury features were omitted. Each of the five cars was individually customized to the owner’s specifications, with variations in interior color schemes and trim materials. The exterior paintwork, reflecting the Italian flag, was a defining characteristic of the Tricolore.
Chassis & Braking
The Zonda Cinque Tricolore utilizes a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, providing exceptional rigidity and strength while minimizing weight. The suspension system is fully independent, with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars. Braking is provided by ventilated discs at all four corners, coupled with an advanced ABS system. The car rides on 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, shod with high-performance tires (255/35 R19 front, 335/30 R20 rear) to maximize grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Zonda Cinque Tricolore was universally praised by automotive journalists for its performance, exclusivity, and stunning design. Critics noted the car’s raw power, exceptional handling, and breathtaking acceleration. Compared to other Zonda variants, the Tricolore represented the pinnacle of the model line. While the Zonda R was focused on track performance, the Cinque Tricolore offered a slightly more refined experience, albeit still incredibly demanding to drive. The automatic transmission was seen as a compromise, offering convenience but sacrificing some of the engagement of a manual gearbox. The car’s price – estimated at over $1.4 million at the time of production – placed it firmly in the hypercar segment.
Legacy
The Pagani Zonda Cinque Tricolore remains one of the most sought-after and collectible cars in the world. Its rarity, performance, and historical significance ensure its continued desirability among collectors. The M120S engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. The carbon fiber chassis is exceptionally durable. Today, examples of the Cinque Tricolore command prices well in excess of their original value, solidifying their status as automotive icons. The car represents a high point in the Zonda’s evolution and a testament to Horacio Pagani’s dedication to creating uncompromising, high-performance automobiles.
