Thought the Pagani Zonda R was cool before? Just wait until you see what it's like driven flat-out on a Formula 1 track. It'll make you fall in love all over again.
Devin, host of the Fastrrr YouTube channel, was lucky enough to get some seat time in a track-only Zonda R Evo—one of rumored to be five examples ever built—at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Much to our delight, he strapped a camera to his helmet so we too could experience a taste of what it's like to drive such a special machine. The footage doesn't disappoint.
After a quick walkaround, we're thrown right into the action, where we ride onboard as Devin rips through three hot laps. Things start off on a high note when Devin is passed by a Huayra R at full tilt on the back straight before lap one.
From there, we're treated to eight straight minutes of pure, uninterrupted aural delight. The Zonda R Evo uses an AMG-sourced 6.0-liter V-12 tuned to an incredible 800 horsepower, uninhibited by exhaust mufflers to create some of the greatest engine sounds you will ever hear.
The engine isn't the only thing making cool noises. There's also the gearbox. The Zonda R uses a six-speed sequential transmission, operated by some spectacularly long paddles behind the steering wheel. There's a distinct whine present in the cabin, like you'd hear in a race car. Makes sense.
Considering the rarity of these Zonda track specials, we're glad there's at least one out there getting the exercise it deserves.
