MC20 Icona & MC20 Leggenda celebrate 20th anniversary of the timeless MC12

Published

01 July 2023

Author

Louwman Exclusive

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Maserati’s connection with motorsport is fully expressed in the new MC20 Icona and MC20 Leggenda, two special versions that celebrate the brand with the trident’s return to motorsport 20 years ago. This happened in 2004, after 37 years of absence, with the iconic and winning MC12.

The street version of the MC12 was first presented 20 years ago, and it had everything it needed to make its mark in motorsport and become a benchmark in GT championships. It also eventually inspired the Maserati MC20 super sports car. This 100% Made in Italy car marked the beginning of a new era for Maserati in 2020. The new flagship model was the first Maserati to be equipped with the innovative V6 Nettuno engine.

The two special versions of the MC20 that Maserati is now launching – in a limited edition of 20 units each – feature special colour schemes and exclusive features inspired by the MC12 Stradale and MC12 GT1 Vitaphone, respectively.

The livery of the Maserati MC20 Icona recalls one of the most iconic Maserati cars ever: the colours are the same as those of its 2004 predecessor, the MC12 Stradale, which in turn paid homage to the Maserati Trofeo Light that competed in the 24 Hours of Daytona. This was the first car inspired by the Maserati Birdcage Type 61, produced between 1959 and 1961.

Several features from the Fuoriserie customisation programme are reflected in the MC20 Icona Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale colour schemes: special and exclusive details that provide refinement and an individual touch. The Maserati Fuoriserie logo in Bianco Audace colour catches the eye en profil. In the lower part of the bodywork near the rear wheels, the Italian flag logo, placed below the MC20 emblem, catches the eye.

At the centre of the chromed rims, featuring the recognisable trident design, the wheel covers are silver-grey, topped by the trident logo in contrasting blue. The brake calipers are also painted blue. The exterior mirrors have an automatic dimming function. Another highlight is the bonnet made of carbon fibre.

The history of the MC20 Leggenda is also reflected in its name; it has a livery in Nero Essenza and Digital Mint Matte in reference to the striking colours of the Vitaphone Racing team’s MC12 GT1. This car held the record of three wins and two second places in the 24 Hours of Spa.

The Fuoriserie features of the MC20 Leggenda include three-tooth rims in Nero Lucido with wheel covers in Nero Opaco and Trident Digital Mint colours, the three-tooth logo in yellow on the grille, doors and C-pillars, and finally black painted brake calipers.

The interior of the two versions also features the advanced Sonus faber audio system. Other features shared by both versions are the carbon fibre interior package, electronic limited slip differential (E-LSD), lift function for the suspension, assistance systems for automatic emergency braking and cross-traffic, and finally front and luggage compartment mats.

The MC20 Icona and MC20 Leggenda were developed to mark the 20th anniversary of the beginning of a golden era for the trident brand on the track with the legendary MC12 GT1. Between 2004 and 2010, this model took 27 victories in the FIA GT championship, won the 24 Hours of Spa three times and won six team championships with Vitaphone Racing and five drivers’ championships – including two FIA GT1 world championships – as well as two constructors’ championships for Maserati.

The Fuoriserie package for the two special editions is completed by racy interiors. Special highlights are the lightweight, 4-way adjustable monocoque racing seats, whose central section is finished in Nero/Blu on a silver-grey background in the Icona, or in the colour Nero on a silver-grey background in the case of Leggenda. A special accent are the stitched trident emblem on the headrest combined with the words ‘Icona’ or ‘Leggenda’, depending on the model.

A badge on the cover of the powerful Nettuno engine reads ‘ICONA. UNA DI 20’ or ‘LEGGENDA. UNA DI 20’.