1/18 Maserati MC12 Fiorano Test 2004, Driver: Michael Schumacher

1/18 Maserati MC12 Fiorano Test 2004, Driver: Michael Schumacher

The MC12 marked Maserati’s return to competitions after 37 years,Under the direction of Giorgio Ascanelli, Maserati began development of an FIA GT-eligible race car. This car, which would eventually be named the MC12, was initially called the "MCC" ("Maserati Corse Competizione") and was to be developed simultaneously with a road-going version, called the "MCS" ("Maserati Corse Stradale"). Frank Stephenson, Director of Ferrari-Maserati Concept Design and Development at the time, did the majority of the body styling, but the initial shape was developed during wind tunnel testing from an idea presented by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The MCC has a very similar body shape to the MC12, but there are several key differences, most notably the rear spoiler. Andrea Bertolini served as the chief test driver throughout development, although some testing was done by Michael Schumacher, who frequently tested the MCC at the Fiorano Circuit. During the development process, the MCC name was set aside after Maserati established the car's official name, MC12.

The car is based heavily on the Enzo Ferrari, using a slightly modified version of the Ferrari F140 V12 engine, the same gearbox (but given the unique name of "Maserati Cambiocorsa") and the same chassis and track (length of axle between the wheels). The windshield is the only externally visible component shared with the Enzo,the MC12 has a unique body which is wider, longer and slightly taller. The increased size creates greater downforce across the MC12's body in addition to the downforce created by the two-metre spoiler.

The Maserati MC12 features a carbon fiber chassis and bodywork, equipped with front and rear push-rod suspensions, ventilated carbon disc brakes with Brembo calipers, wheels with alloy wheels and 18” Pirelli tires. The gearbox is a sequential 6 speed. In the version of its first full racing season, this car had a weight of 1250 kg and a wheelbase of 2800 mm. The longitudinal engine, arranged in the rear-central position, is a V-cylinder of 5,998 cm³, with a power of 630 hp and a torque of 652 Nm at 5500 rpm.