Maserati’s two-prong track attack
Maserati has unveiled two new track-only MC20-based models: the MC20 GT2 racer and the trackday-focused Project24. The new MC20 GT2 will feature in the Fanatec GT2 European Series Championship, which debuts in 2023. Maserati’s last GT racer was the MC12, which ran in FIA GT Championships from 2004 to 2010.
The MC20 was designed from the outset to be a racer as well as a road car. The GT2 keeps the road car’s 3.0-litre V6 Nettuno engine, but its 630hp output is likely to be reduced to comply with FIA Balance of Performance regulations. The same rules could also see the car’s weight – estimated to be around 1250kg thanks to a host of weight-saving measures – altered between races.
The MC20 GT2 retains the road car’s carbonfibre monocoque but adds a safety rollcage and air jacks. The double-wishbone suspension is also retained but receives adjustable racing dampers and adjustable anti-roll bars. The transmission is a six-speed sequential racing gearbox with paddle shifters, plus a racing clutch and self-locking mechanical limited-slip differential. Also new are bespoke forged 18in centre-lock aluminium wheels with slick tyres, ventilated brakes, adjustable ABS, adjustable traction control and a 120-litre fuel tank.
The GT2 boasts a new aerodynamics package including a multi-adjustable rear wing, while the front and side windows are in Lexan. Inside the single-seat cabin are an adjustable racing pedal box and steering column, six-point safety belt, carbonfibre steering wheel and a data acquisition system.
Meanwhile, Project24 is a track-only version of the MC20 that adopts many elements of the race car, including its rollcage, fuel tank, sequential racing gearbox, Lexan screens, air jacks, adjustable suspension and adjustable traction control. The Brembo CCMR ventilated racing brakes have bespoke cooling, callipers and adjustable ABS, while the forged 18in aluminium wheels come with slick tyres. Project24 has all-new carbon bodywork with some areas finished in natural fibres, plus a unique aero package that includes multi-adjustable front and rear wings. The cabin is basically GT2-spec but a passenger seat is optional. Other options include onboard cameras, telemetry recording and driving performance display.
Courtesy of uprated turbochargers, power rises to 740hp, some 90hp more than the road-legal MC20. Maserati says the track car will weigh below 1250kg, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 584hp per tonne. Only 62 units of Project24 will be made (at a price yet to be revealed), with owners receiving track-specific experiences.
Project 24 (top row) & GT2 racer (bottom row)