One to Buy: 6000km from new 2006 Maserati MC12
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Soon after the Ferrari Enzo had been launched, parent company Fiat gave the green light for a GT1 racing version to be developed. However, instead of being badged as a Ferrari, the new machine would appear under another of Fiat’s brands: Maserati.
Most significantly, the resultant Maserati MC12 featured redesigned bodywork, a different construction method for its monocoque and steel instead of carbon brake discs (as dictated by racing regulations of the time). New gear ratios were also fitted and the redline was lowered. Unlike the fixed head Enzo, the MC12 road car featured a removable central roof panel.
Maserati went on to reveal their most exciting vehicle in decades at the Geneva Motor Show during March of 2004 As the MC12 was conceived for use in the GT1 competition class, 25 road-going versions had to be built for homologation.
All 25 units required for were then lined up for inspection by the FIA scrutineers in late August with the entire run having been pre-sold at a price of €600,000 apiece. In 2005, a second batch of 25 cars was completed, which took total production to 50 units. Each of the 50 was painted a two-tone white over blue colour scheme.
The new Maserati went on to secure the FIA GT Championship for Teams five years straight between 2005 and 2009. The Drivers’ title fell to the MC12 on four occasions between 2006 and 2009. Between 2005 and 2007 (when a Manufacturers’ title was added to the FIA GT Championship), Maserati won it twice.
Currently on offer at the Schaltkulisse showroom in Taufkirchen is one of the 50 road-going examples of the MC12 produced between 2004 and 2005. Registered in June 2006, this particular example has covered a little over 6600km and is offered in superb original condition throughout.
