30 June 2022
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Almost Real AR+ 2005 Pagani Zonda F - Grigio Mercurio
PRICE: £467.99
REF NO: 850401001
SCALE: 1/18
Pagani's Zonda is a mid-engine sports car produced by the Italian sports car manufacturer. It made its debut at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. Both 2-door coupé and roadster variants have been produced, along with a third variant - the barchetta. Construction is mainly of carbon fibre.
The Zonda was originally to be named the "Fangio F1", after Formula One world champion, Juan Manuel Fangio. But, following his death in 1995, it was renamed after the Zonda wind, a hot air current above Argentina.
The Zonda F (the F being another reference to Fangio) was unveiled at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. It was the most extensively re-engineered variant of the Zonda yet, though it shared much with its predecessors including the 7.3 L AMG V12 engine that, through enhanced intake manifolds, exhaust and a revised ECU, now had a power output of 594 hp.
Production of the Zonda F was limited to 25 cars. It came equipped with an extra headlight and a new configuration of fog lights in the lower grille, new bodywork to improve the car's aerodynamics (revised front end, new rear spoiler, more aerodynamic vents all around) and different side mirrors. Further enhancement scentred on optional carbon/ceramic brakes by Brembo, and OZ alloy wheels.
This largely-diecast model launches Almost Real’s new sub-brand, "AR+", created to capture the history and glory of Pagani’s supercars. Exquisite almost beyond description, Almost Real has wonderfully replicated the quad tailpipes, the triple stacked taillights and the front splitter. Lifting the rear bonnet reveals the monstrous V12 in exacting detail.
Opening the doors affords a view of the flat-bottomed steering wheel, handbrake, and gear lever, all adorned with wood inserts. Forged aluminum/magnesium 20-inch alloy wheels (rear) and 19-inch (front, steerable) are stunningly reproduced. The underside of the Zonda features the double A-arm four-wheel independent suspension, which actually works on the model. Absolutely top notch throughout.