Zagato unveils the Capricorn 01, featuring a 5.2-liter V8 engine with over 900 horsepower, limited to just 19 units worldwide [Video]

Capricorn 01 Zagato

19 units produced to commemorate the founding year of Zagato

On October 16th, the Capricorn Group, based in Düsseldorf, Germany, unveiled the Capricorn 01 Zagato, the first hypercar to bear the company’s name. In addition to a body designed by Zagato, the car features a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive (RWD) and manual transmission (MT). The Capricorn 01 Zagato will be hand-built at Capricorn’s headquarters factory in Düsseldorf.

The Capricorn 01 Zagato brings together German technology and Italian design. It was made possible through the personal connection between Capricorn founder and CEO Robertino Wirth and Zagato’s Andrea Michele Zagato. The development theme was “What is a true driver’s car?” and the long-standing business relationship and deep friendship added a special touch to the project.

During development, priority was given to weight reduction technology and pure driving performance rather than simply pursuing specifications. The power unit is a 5.2-liter V8 supercharged engine that, at the time of homologation, will produce a maximum output of over 900 PS and a maximum torque of 1000 Nm.

The rear-mounted power unit is based on a Ford 5.2-liter V8, with modifications made by Capricorn’s engineering department. A supercharger has been added, the engine has been converted to a dry sump, the crank, connecting rods, and pistons have been modified, and the cooling system has been updated with the installation of an air intake. The ECU and mapping software have also been developed in-house, and the rear wheels are driven by a CIMA 5-speed manual transmission.

The combination of a full carbon fiber bodyshell and an LMP1-based full-carbon chassis for endurance racing results in a vehicle weight of just 1,200 kg. With an excellent power-to-weight ratio, the car achieves a top speed of 360 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than three seconds.

As a tribute to the founding year of Zagato, April 19, 1919, the Capricorn 01 Zagato will be produced in a limited run of 19 units. Sales will be handled exclusively by the Belgian luxury car retailer Louyet Group. Capricorn CEO Wirth does not hide his excitement about the company’s first mass-produced hypercar project.

“The Capricorn 01 Zagato represents the culmination of decades of pioneering ultra-lightweight materials, technologies and construction at Capricorn. It will be a showcase of the full range of our capabilities, bringing together all the technologies and skills we have to design, develop and manufacture a car.”

Zagato’s first hypercar

From the early stages of development, Zagato worked alongside Capricorn in collaboration with external partners. Using CFD analysis data, they were able to perfectly integrate the high technical requirements into an emotional and timeless form. Large air intakes and air outlets are placed throughout the body, achieving efficient cooling performance as well as a high level of aerodynamics.

Particularly eye-catching are the large air intakes behind the doors. The outer panels of the doors themselves function as a surface to guide fresh air. The sharp lines running from the front fenders to the doors and blending into the intake ducts are a major feature of the Capricorn 01 Zagato.

The high level of aerodynamics makes the installation of large wings unnecessary. The modest rear spoiler blends into the seam race into an elegant form, and together with the diffuser, generates downforce. Andrea Michele Zagato, grandson of Zagato’s founder, Ugo Zagato, explained the design of the Capricorn 01 Zagato as follows:

“Over the past 100 years, Zagato has collaborated with over 40 prestigious automobile manufacturers, including Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lancia, Maserati and Porsche, to design elegant limited edition collection vehicles. However, this is the first time we have worked on a hypercar. I am proud to have been able to realize this commemorative first car together with my close friend, Mr. Wirth. Italian aesthetics and German craftsmanship are embodied in this one-of-a-kind car, which will be highly valuable as a collector’s item.”

Classic and minimalist cabin

The cockpit was designed by Capricorn’s in-house design team. The development goal was to have only what is necessary for driving, with the highest quality and no noise. Digital components have been eliminated as much as possible from the controls, creating a timeless interior space that is centered around the driver. The atmosphere is closer to that of a racing car than a road car, with switches reminiscent of racing cars lined up on a simple dashboard.

All the information you need for driving is displayed on a triple analog meter. A large tachometer is located in the center, a speedometer on the left, and fuel/oil temperature/oil pressure gauges and warning lights on the right. The interior is lavishly decorated with carbon fiber, and all switch parts are made from machined titanium and aluminum. Alcantara can be added to the entire cabin to suit your preference.

The Connolly leather three-spoke steering wheel is only equipped with the engine start and mode switch. The fixed Connolly leather seats are integrated with a safety cell. Schroth four-point harnesses are standard equipment, and can accommodate people over 2m tall. The adjustable steering column, pedals, and movable shift lever (tunnel mounted, 80mm adjustment) allow you to find the ideal driving position.

The front has a 110L trunk space, suitable for a weekend trip for two. It also has a four-wheel lift for overcoming obstacles and a small-screen rearview camera in the center meter, making it easy to use in everyday life.