Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
Past behavior is always the best predictor of future performance. Of course, that means the transfer of DNA and anomalous design techniques from the Pagani Zonda into the Huayra hypercar would present auto aficionados with a hypnotically gorgeous and road-thrilling specimen. Its short but magnifying history began with the dream of an Italian kid that envisioned deep and beyond the scope of reality. With ambitious goals that led to creating a motorbike build and vehicle before leaving high school, Pagani Automobili founder Horacio Pagani recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Huayra.
During the 6th annual ART-of-Motion exhibit by Automotive Rhythms at the 2022 Washington Auto Show, spectators were entertained by the presence of a 2014 Huayra showcased by Randy Tillim of Savage Garage. The proud owner and supercar enthusiast allowed fans to snap photos as he highlighted some of the vehicle’s essential features, engineered from more than 10,000 components. I had a chance to engage with Randy one-on-one to experience his enthusiasm while living vicariously through the lens of a select few individuals who possess the keys to this Italian work of art from San Cesari.
Christened after Huayra-Tata, the Quechua wind god, the Huayra is incontrovertible proof that the grandest ideas can come to fruition with core values manifested from scientific and artistic research. Elegant and muscular, the Pagani Huayra, aka C9, took cues from the Zonda, which equated to maximum performance and technological expressions that led to a lightweight central monocoque made of carbo-titanium. The 2,976-pound exotic was conceptualized in 2003 and presented in 2011. Fascinated by F1 great Juan Manuel Fangio and Leonardo da Vinci who told us that art and science are disciplines that need to walk alongside, Horacio continued his quest for the most quintessential vehicle possible. Integrity, authenticity, and perfection are the staples of every built-to-order Pagani.
With a $2.2 million average sales price for 2011 to 2021 Pagani Huayra models, the mid-engine layout features a 44% front to 56% rear weight distribution. A hand-built Mercedes-AMG 6-liter V12 twin-turbo engine (M158) delivers 730-horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque for a 0-60 mph gallop of 2.8 seconds. A transverse sequential 7-speed transmission with driving modes pairs with the AMG. Top speed is rated at 238 mph as progressive Pirelli performance tires heat up the track and jetpack-ed quad exhaust pipes sing with enthusiasm. Powerful Brembo 6-piston front / 4-piston rear calipers and carbon ceramic rotors are at your disposal when slower speeds are required. The interior is custom-crafted with titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber materials for an exquisite drive experience
This specific Pagani label is offered as the Huayra Coupé, Huayra Roadster, Huayra R, and Huayra BC and Huayra Roadster BC, named after Pagani’s first customer and collector Benny Caiola. I guess dreams do come true!
