Zagato Mostro Barchetta, the convertible powered by an Maserati engine

It was back in 2015, a distant year now, that we first got to know the Zagato Mostro, a car created by the Italian design firm. Beyond its striking looks, its powerful engine is worth discussing. It is derived from the Maserati, so this was a car that not only stood out from other models, but whose heart beat with the power of that powertrain. Now, seven years later, the barchetta version arrives, bringing changes to the engine as well.

Although it is the same model, the 2022 version has a slightly different look. For some, it is even more elegant than the 2015 model, although the absence of a roof certainly gives it a more dynamic and sporty image. To maintain the proportions despite the missing roof, the rear has been modified, though the Maserati 450S Coupé Zagato of 1957 is still recognizable.

The barchetta version keeps most of the body panels seen on the 2015 version, although the style has been adapted to make it more contemporary, more in line with the 2020s. This model is based on a MonoCell carbon fibre chassis. It is designed with one section that houses the windscreen frame and another that holds the rear suspension, exhaust and fuel tank.

The front and rear double-wishbone suspension features a pushrod acting on the dampers. The 19-inch wheels are fitted with 255/40 R19 tyres at the front and 295/35 R19 at the rear, and conceal the racing-specification brake calipers.

Engine Maserati

Like the Zagato Mostro, this version features an engine derived from Maserati. This time, however, there are two units available. The first is the 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8, producing 420 CV. The second is the new 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, which also powers the MC20 and delivers 630 CV.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential manual gearbox mounted at the front. It operates without electronic traction control, offering the most natural driving experience possible.

Limited production

As with the Zagato Mostro, the Mostro Barchetta will be limited to a production run of five units. The first has already been delivered following its debut at Villa d’Este. The other four are already allocated, and their owners will receive them over the coming months, with the personalisations they have chosen for their vehicles.

Of course, the price remains a secret, although we can already imagine it will be neither an inexpensive car nor an easy one to acquire.