Today at Fiorano saw the track debut of the Maserati that will take part in the FIA GT championships. The car, which for the time being goes by its project code name of MCC, will be launched at the forthcoming International Geneva Motor Show, alongside the Trident marque’s new road-going Granturismo car, the MCS, from which it is closely derived. The two cars were designed in a joint operation between the Maserati engineers and those of the Modena company’s racing department under
the technical direction of engineer, Giorgio Ascanelli.
The Ferrari-Maserati Group’s race test driver, Andrea Bertolini completed the first few laps, with no lap times recorded. Most of the day was devoted to a general technical check on the car.
“This is a very important programme for Maserati, which the Racing Department has tackled with great enthusiasm,” stated Gestione Sportiva Managing Director, Jean Todt. “Today, we have witnessed the MCC’s track debut and as usual on these occasions, it was a really emotional moment.”
Testing at Fiorano continues tomorrow, once again with Andrea Bertolini at the wheel. When Andrea Bertolini turned the key to the 12-cylinder engine at Fiorano, a new chapter was written in Maserati’s glorious sporting history.
The MCC, short for Maserati Corse Competizione, today began a series of tests at the Modena circuit designed to fine tune various components. The 12 cylinder V-engine has a displacement of 5998 cc and produces over 620 bhp. The MCC’s sweeping, aerodynamic body rests on a carbon-fibre chassis that weighs 1100 kg. Push rod suspension in steel and tyres by Pirelli complete the hardware.
Giorgio Ascanelli planned and oversaw the MCC project - a model which is very similar to the new Maserati Granturismo (MCS). The car will be officially presented at the Geneva Motorshow in March this year.
With this new model, the House of the Trident will take part in some selected FIA GT races in the upcoming championship, ahead of full participation pencilled in for 2005.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati S.p.A
