The 1980s were the heyday for supercars from iconic automotive manufacturers such as Lamborghini and Ferrari. A lesser-known supercar from the late 80s is the Cizeta-Moroder V16T. A pristine example of the 1988 Cizeta-Moroder V16T is up for auction with RM Sotheby’s and is a prototype and show car wearing chassis number 001.
The vehicle was owned from brand-new by investor Giorgio Moroder. This car was displayed at the 1989 LA Autoshow and Geneva Motor Show. It had a complete mechanical restoration in 2018 and is fully functional.
The vehicle looks like a cross between a Lamborghini Diablo and a Ferrari Testarossa. It was developed by a former Lamborghini test driver and development engineer named Claudio Zampolli. One of the most exciting features is a 6.0-liter V16 engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. There’s no indication of how much the vehicle might sell for.
Design and Development
The Cizeta-Moroder V16T’s design is a testament to the era’s bold and extravagant automotive styling. The car’s exterior, with its sharp lines and aggressive stance, was the brainchild of Marcello Gandini, the same designer responsible for the Lamborghini Countach and Diablo. The V16T’s design elements, such as the pop-up headlights and wide rear haunches, are reminiscent of the Lamborghini Diablo, while the side strakes evoke the Ferrari Testarossa.
The development of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T was a collaborative effort between Claudio Zampolli and Giorgio Moroder. Zampolli, a former Lamborghini test driver and engineer, brought his technical expertise to the project, while Moroder, a renowned music producer and composer, provided the financial backing and his name to the brand. The “V16T” in the car’s name stands for its V16 engine and transverse (T) layout, a unique configuration that sets it apart from other supercars of its time.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the Cizeta-Moroder V16T boasts a 6.0-liter V16 engine, a rare and impressive powerplant that delivers a symphony of mechanical prowess. This engine is essentially two flat-plane V8s joined together, producing an estimated 540 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The V16 engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, allowing drivers to fully engage with the car’s performance capabilities.
The V16T’s performance figures are equally impressive. The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 4 seconds, with a top speed of around 204 mph. These numbers were competitive with other supercars of the late 80s and early 90s, such as the Ferrari F40 and Lamborghini Countach.
Legacy and Rarity
The Cizeta-Moroder V16T is a rare and unique piece of automotive history. Only a handful of these cars were ever produced, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The car’s rarity is further enhanced by its association with Giorgio Moroder and its status as a prototype and show car.
The example up for auction with RM Sotheby’s, chassis number 001, is particularly special. As the first prototype, it holds a significant place in the history of the Cizeta brand. Its appearances at prestigious events such as the 1989 LA Autoshow and Geneva Motor Show add to its provenance and desirability.
In 2018, the car underwent a complete mechanical restoration, ensuring that it remains in fully functional condition. This restoration work is a testament to the car’s enduring appeal and the dedication of its owners to preserving its legacy.
While there is no indication of how much the vehicle might sell for at auction, its rarity, provenance, and unique features are likely to attract significant interest from collectors. The Cizeta-Moroder V16T stands as a symbol of a bygone era of automotive innovation and extravagance, a true testament to the creativity and ambition of its creators.
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