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• Frank Stephenson shows how he went about designing the MC12.
• MC12 based on Ferrari Enzo, but saw substantial changes to engine, chassis, and aerodynamics.
• The 6.0-litre V12 engine produced 463kW and 652Nm.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
The Maserati MC12 is one of the most recognizable cars ever made by the Italian automaker.
The MC12, abbreviation for Maserati Corse, 12-cylinder, is the most extreme car to ever come out of the Maserati factory. The first version of the car, called the Stradale, was a road-going version, but was homologated to compete in the international GT-racing series.
Back to racing
Maserati returned to the racing world after a 37-year hiatus and soon established itself as a reckoned rival on track. The MC12 was fast, too! Clearing the 0-200km/h sprint in less than 10 seconds, the car could reach a top speed of over 330km/h.
Though the car was based on the Ferrari Enzo, substantial modifications were brought about to the engine, chassis, and aerodynamics. Only 50 units were produced between 2004 and 2005, and the 6.0-litre V12 engine produced 463kW and 652Nm. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
Frank Stephenson, the man responsible for the MC12's design, shares how he went about creating the car and what the most critical elements of the design were that had to be included.
Compiled by: Charlen Raymond
