Most powerful production V6 around
Convertible, EV coming too
There’s a new supercar from Maserati. The MC20 (for Maserati Corse 2020) weighs less than 1,500 kg, has more than 600 hp, and it debuts an all-new engine for the brand. All that and it took just two years to develop thanks to impressive use of dynamic simulators and a new Virtual Car mathematic model.
More than just a series of equations, though, this is a stunner from Maser. With styling that is clearly linked to the MC12 supercar and that saw more than 2,000 hours of wind tunnel testing to give the carbon bodywork stunning performance through the air without the need for massive wings or cool but line-spoiling add-ons.
Not that there isn’t an extensive network of ducting and a series of vortex generators to cool the car and keep it planted, instead they’re hidden underneath, with a humped floor increasing airflow and directing it where it needs to go, made possible though the carbon fibre monocoque chassis. That chassis has been designed to produce a convertible version as well as a full EV in the coming years.
Powering the car is the Nettuno 3.0L twin-turbo V6. The all-new engine makes 630 hp and Maserati says it brings “a technology previously only found in Formula 1.” It’s the most powerful six-cylinder in production, using a new pre-chamber combustion chamber between the spark plug and regular combustion chamber, as well a s a side spark plug and direct and indirect fuel injection.
The cabin is driver-focused, with a digital dash display, motorsports-inspired steering wheel designed by Maserati test driver Andrea Bertolini, and simple controls. The model shown is largely bare carbon and Alcantara, but other finishes will be available. Under three seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of just over 320 km/h are on offer.
Orders for the Maserati MC20 are open now and the car is expected to arrive for deliveries sometime next year as a 2022 model.
