How The Pagani Zonda Oliver Evolution Redefines Luxury And Performance

The Pagani Zonda Oliver Evolution introduced here is a one-off model that brings to the fore the unique Pagani approach to making hypercars. I got a chance to photo it at Concours of Elegance 2024.

2016 Pagani Zonda Oliver Evolution ‘Hermès Edition’. A Heart of Pure Power

At the heart of the car is the Mercedes-AMG M120 engine – a power unit created to dominate the FIA GT Championship in the 1990s. Specifically, for this application, it has been enlarged from the standard model’s 7.2 litres to 7.4 litres. As you’d expect, the performance level has been improved along with the increase in displacement.

Aerodynamics Built for Performance

The aerodynamics are also unique. While few Zondas are built to the same specifications, the Zonda Oliver is equipped with specially developed aerodynamics that prioritise performance. The target was to generate race-car levels of downforce. Toyota GT500 Champion Akira Iida, who tested the Zonda Oliver on a circuit during the Pagani Raduno in Japan, praised it wholeheartedly. “Of all the Paganis I have driven on the circuit, this one has by far the best handling,” he said.

Precision Suspension for Ultimate Handling

Another reason Iida, who has driven many Paganis, praised the handling is down to this car’s specific suspension. The owner of the Zonda Oliver, an international businessman and the representative of a team that competes in European GT races with Mercedes-AMG, leveraged the technical capabilities of his team to enhance the car’s suspension. Additionally, Multimatic was commissioned to develop the dampers, and the suspension alignment – including camber and toe – was re-examined. The result? Settings that significantly differ from the factory’s recommendations, offering a unique driving experience.

Hermès Craftsmanship: The Ultimate Collaboration

However, what is most noteworthy about the Zonda Oliver is the stunning beauty of its exterior and interior, the latter of which was designed in association with Hermès. When the owner visited Hermès to discuss the project, the famous atelier highlighted its heritage, noting that the first use of its logo was on a carriage seat before moving on to saddles. This historical connection between craftsmanship and luxury can be seen in every detail of the car’s design.

A Celebration of Manual Transmission

The owner chose the Zonda as the basis for his vision of the ultimate sports car because, by the 2000s, most supercars had transitioned to paddle-shift transmissions. He saw the Zonda as one of the last of its kind to feature manual transmissions, celebrating the purity and control that only a manual gearbox can provide.

A Legacy for the Future

The car’s name, Oliver, holds a special meaning – it is shared with the owner’s son. “When my son is able to drive, I want to go on a drive with him someday,” the owner says. “That’s what I’m looking forward to the most. I’m sure the memories of that time will be so wonderful that they will surpass the value of this car.”

Technical Specifications

Engine – 7400cc / V12 / naturally aspirated / DOHC

Transmission – Six-speed manual, RWD

Power – 780bhp

Torque – 575lb ft

Top Speed – 217mph

0-60MPH – 2.6secs

Weight – 1210kg

What a beast, and a car I’d love to drive, rather than own. This car really caught my attention and made it into my top 10 cars at the 2024 Concours of Elegance. Check out that top 10 here.

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