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Cizeta-Moroder V16T

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T is a limited-production developed in the late 1980s, notable for its transverse-mounted 6.0-liter producing 540 horsepower, the first road-going V16 since Cadillac's opulent sedans, and for its wide, angular design evoking the . Conceived by Claudio Zampolli, a former Lamborghini test driver and engineer based in , the project originated in the late as an ambitious bid to create a superior alternative to existing supercars, with Zampolli partnering with Italian composer to form Automobili Manufacturing in , . The car's bodywork was styled by , the designer behind the and Miura, while the engineering team included ex- specialists like chief engineer Oliviero Pedrazzi, who adapted a from two joined V8 blocks, featuring 64 valves, eight camshafts, and dual fuel-injection systems for smooth operation across a broad powerband. Built on a spaceframe with hand-formed aluminum body panels, the V16T measured 81 inches wide—among the broadest supercars of its era—to accommodate the layout, and it featured distinctive elements like quad pop-up headlights, a bubble-shaped for engine visibility, and . Performance was impressive for the time, with a claimed top speed exceeding 200 mph (up to 205 mph) and acceleration from in approximately 4.2 to 4.5 seconds, delivered through a five-speed manual ZF and . Production was extremely limited due to financial challenges, market timing amid the , and legal disputes; only about nine to ten examples were completed between and 2003, with an intended production rate of 12 cars per year never realized, and the unveiled at a 1988 press event. Priced at around $280,000 upon launch (equivalent to about $573,000 in 2023 dollars), the V16T targeted ultra-wealthy buyers but struggled commercially, though a one-off convertible variant, the Fenice TTJ Spyder, was built in 2003. Despite its rarity and production woes—including a 2009 U.S. customs seizure of imported units—the V16T endures as a cult icon among enthusiasts for its audacity and sonic drama from the V16, often described as the "" of obscure supercars.

History and Development

Founding of Cizeta

The idea for the originated in the late 1970s during Zampolli's time at , but he formally founded Automobili in 1988 to pursue his vision of creating an independent high-performance manufacturer. After working on iconic models like the Miura and Countach during his time at in the and 1970s, Zampolli relocated to in the early 1980s, where he established an exotic car service business that serviced high-profile clients, fueling his ambition to design and build his own vehicle free from corporate oversight. The company was headquartered in , —the epicenter of Italian automotive engineering—to tap into the region's specialized talent pool, while maintaining additional operations in to support Zampolli's U.S.-based network and sales efforts. 's initial goal was to develop a mid-engine that would serve as a to Lamborghini's angular, wedge-shaped designs like the Countach, emphasizing exclusivity, speed, and innovative engineering without the bureaucratic constraints of larger automakers. Later, investment from composer provided crucial funding to advance the project beyond its early stages. Zampolli passed away on July 7, 2021, at the age of 82, and Automobili ceased operations that year. To realize this vision, Zampolli assembled a small team of up to 16 former technicians, leveraging their proven expertise in high-performance vehicle development to ensure precision craftsmanship and . Key hires included Oliviero Pedrazzi for , Achille Bevini and Lanosè Bronzatti for and work, and William Vaccari for the tubular spaceframe construction, allowing to operate nimbly and focus on engineering solutions. This approach enabled the company to bypass traditional industry hierarchies, prioritizing innovation and quality in Modena's workshops.

Partnership with Giorgio Moroder

In 1988, Italian musician and producer , known for his pioneering work in electronic disco music, invested significantly in Automobili, becoming a 50% stakeholder and providing crucial funding that exceeded $2 million in total for the project. This partnership originated from Moroder's visits to Claudio Zampolli's California Lamborghini dealership for servicing his Countach, evolving into a formal collaboration that leveraged Moroder's celebrity status and financial resources alongside Zampolli's engineering expertise to target the luxury market. The alliance resulted in the car's branding as the Cizeta-Moroder V16T, with Moroder contributing to its marketing appeal, including a design that earned him the Award for design excellence in 1988. This partnership directly enabled the prototype's unveiling at a high-profile event in on December 5, 1988, showcasing the vehicle's innovative V16 powertrain to an international audience. By 1990, the partnership dissolved amid disputes over production delays and creative control, with Moroder growing frustrated by the slow pace and advocating for alternatives like fiberglass bodies, which clashed with Zampolli's vision. The split led to Moroder retaining the sole prototype bearing the name, while subsequent production cars were rebranded simply as the V16T starting in 1991.

Prototype Development and Debut

Development of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T prototype commenced in 1988 in , , led by Claudio Zampolli and a team of former engineers. The project leveraged Giorgio Moroder's financial backing, which facilitated a swift progression from concept to completion. By late 1988, the prototype was finished, incorporating a custom-built 6.0-liter mounted transversely and integrated with a bespoke five-speed ZF to optimize and handling. The prototype made its public debut at a high-profile unveiling event in on December 5, 1988, hosted by , marking the car's introduction to an international audience. It subsequently appeared at the 1989 Motor Show, where it drew considerable acclaim for its innovative V16 powertrain and the striking bodywork penned by . The vehicle's unique engineering, including the rare transverse V16 configuration, positioned it as a bold alternative to established supercars of the era. Chassis number 001 featured a exterior complemented by a red leather interior, reflecting the opulent styling intended for the production model. Initially retained by as a personal keepsake following his departure from the project, the prototype underwent a comprehensive in later years at Canepa Motorsports in to preserve its originality and ensure drivability. This work addressed mechanical updates while maintaining the car's historical integrity.

Design

Exterior Styling

The exterior styling of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T was penned by Italian designer , renowned for his work on the and Countach, and it embodies the aggressive, angular aesthetics of 1980s Italian supercars with a low-slung, wedge-shaped profile that emphasizes forward cabin placement and a rising nose line extending through the windshield to the roof. The design draws from racing influences, featuring wide fenders to accommodate the transverse mid-engine layout, sharp creases, and an integrated rear canopy that incorporates aerodynamic elements like strakes, scoops, and a subtle wing for , creating a cohesive, muscular silhouette without a traditional front hood. Signature visual elements include four pop-up headlights arranged in pairs on each side of the nose, providing a distinctive, predatory front that retracts smoothly for a clean aerodynamic profile when not in use. The doors open conventionally with integrated roof cutaways to ease entry, contrasting with scissor-style mechanisms common in contemporaries, while the overall form prioritizes visual drama and airflow over ornate detailing. The bodywork consists of hand-formed aluminum panels mounted over a tubular steel spaceframe chassis, contributing to a lightweight yet rigid structure that enhances the car's taut, purposeful stance. Measuring 176.9 inches in length, 80.8 inches in width, 43.5 inches in height, and with a 105.9-inch wheelbase, the V16T's proportions underscore its wide-track presence and compact height, evoking a sense of impending motion and raw performance.

Interior and Cockpit

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T accommodates two passengers in a compact, driver-focused cabin designed for performance rather than opulence. The seats are upholstered in high-quality , providing a plush yet supportive feel, with options available in or black to match the car's exotic aesthetic. The model featured a distinctive interior that served as a benchmark for subsequent styling choices. The emphasizes and visibility, with a low creating an expansive view of the road ahead and a wraparound design that envelops the driver. Analog instrumentation is minimalist, centered around a prominent flanked by a , supplemented by basic warning lights for water temperature and oil pressure, reflecting a racing-inspired simplicity. Amenities prioritize functionality, including power-adjustable seats for optimal positioning, an effective air-conditioning system, and a basic stereo for audio entertainment, all integrated without overwhelming the performance-oriented layout. Later models incorporated carbon fiber accents on the alongside aluminum supports, enhancing durability while maintaining a , unadorned character. Build quality underscores handcrafted Italian expertise, with the leather-trimmed interior assembled by skilled artisans in using traditional methods, including a double-skinned bulkhead for noise and heat insulation, to deliver a refined yet visceral driving experience.

Technical Specifications

Engine and Powertrain

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T is powered by a 6.0-liter (5995 cc) DOHC , featuring all-aluminum construction for reduced weight and improved heat dissipation. This innovative powerplant was engineered by joining two V8 blocks with a custom single-piece , creating a 90-degree V configuration with 64 valves (four per cylinder) and a design that contributes to its distinctive high-revving character. The employs dry-sump to maintain oil pressure during high-speed cornering and multi-throttle bodies for precise airflow control, enabling it to rev up to 8,000 rpm. Two K-Jetronic mechanical systems, one for each V8 bank, optimize performance and efficiency, delivering 540 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 400 lb-ft (542 ) of at 6,000 rpm. Mounted transversely in a mid-engine position, the V16 improves with approximately 42% of the vehicle's mass over the front , enhancing overall balance. Power is routed through two geared crankshafts to a central output shaft, which connects to a ZF 5-speed manual positioned longitudinally behind the engine, forming a distinctive "T" configuration that drives the rear wheels. This setup, combined with the engine's output, allows the V16T to achieve top speeds exceeding 200 mph.

Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T featured a hand-welded space-frame constructed from elliptical chrome-molybdenum steel tubing, designed to provide exceptional torsional rigidity while supporting the transverse mid-engine layout. This tubular structure incorporated a central 72 mm backbone tube to route essential systems such as , lines, and , contributing to the vehicle's overall structural integrity. The body panels were hand-formed from aluminum, which helped maintain a curb weight of approximately 3,750 pounds (1,701 kg) despite the robust frame. The suspension system employed an independent double-wishbone configuration with unequal-length control arms at both ends, utilizing coil springs over inboard Koni dampers actuated via linkages from machined hubs. Anti-roll bars were fitted to both axles, with the front unit adjustable for fine-tuning handling characteristics, emphasizing high-speed stability and precise cornering response. The setup rode on 17-inch two-piece cast-aluminum OZ Racing wheels, shod with P Zero tires measuring 245/40 ZR17 at the front and 335/35 ZR17 at the rear, providing substantial grip for the 's performance demands. Braking was handled by large ventilated and slotted discs with four-piston calipers, measuring 13.1 inches (332 mm) in diameter at both the front and rear, paired with vacuum-assisted power boost for effective modulation under high loads. The system used race-style hubs with five locating pegs and a central for secure wheel retention, ensuring reliable stopping power without the inclusion of anti-lock braking as standard equipment.

Performance

Acceleration and Top Speed

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T demonstrated impressive acceleration capabilities, with estimates from road tests stating a 0-60 time of 4.2 seconds and a 0-100 km/h sprint in approximately 4.3 seconds. These figures were enabled by the transverse-mounted delivering 540 horsepower, allowing rapid power deployment through its five-speed . In quarter-mile runs, the V16T was estimated to complete the distance in 12.4 seconds at 120 mph, underscoring its high-performance potential despite limited independent testing. The car's top speed reached 204 mph (328 km/h), facilitated by a fifth-gear ratio optimized for sustained high-velocity travel and an overall final-drive ratio of 4.11:1. Fuel economy reflected the V16's substantial power demands, with estimates around 10 in city and 15 on the , typical for a high-output of the era prioritizing performance over efficiency.

Driving Dynamics and Reviews

Professional reviews of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T consistently praised the smooth power delivery of its , which contributed to a refined experience despite the car's exotic nature. The balanced enabled neutral handling, with the vehicle exhibiting stability suited to high-performance scenarios, though the firm ride quality made it less ideal for everyday use. was described as heavy yet precise, demanding active driver input, while the maintained composure over varied surfaces. In its 1989 road test, commended the V16T's straight-line prowess and overall engineering quality but critiqued the ZF transaxle's shift quality for feeling somewhat vague and less engaging than competitors. The publication noted the power-assisted steering's low gearing, which provided a good but required more effort at low speeds. Subsequent evaluations in the were scarce due to the model's extreme rarity, with only about 9-10 units produced, restricting broader professional access for testing. Feedback across available reviews highlighted the captivating exhaust note from the V16, delivering a unique, symphonic rumble that enhanced the auditory experience. High-speed stability was another strong point, with the car feeling planted and composed during dynamic runs. However, testers commonly complained of elevated interior noise from road and engine sounds, owing to minimal , alongside minor build variations in early examples that affected perceived refinement.

Production and Legacy

Production Timeline and Output

Production of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T began in 1991 following the completion of its prototype in 1988, with the initial phase spanning 1991 to 1995 during which eight customer cars were hand-assembled in small batches at the company's facility in , , by a core team of former engineers including Giancarlo Guerra. Each vehicle required months of meticulous hand-assembly, involving custom fabrication of the tubular steel , aluminum body panels, and the unique transverse sourced from local workshops. Following a pause due to financial challenges and the departure of key investor —which led to the rebranding from to simply for subsequent units—production resumed in 1999 and continued until 2003, yielding one additional and one open-top variant (the Fenice TTJ), for a total of approximately 10 examples including the original . Some final assembly for these later vehicles occurred in after founder Claudio Zampolli relocated operations to the . No further official production took place after 2003, though Zampolli occasionally expressed interest in custom orders into the late ; his death on July 7, 2021, at age , effectively ended any remaining company involvement in the project.

Market and Collectibility

The Cizeta-Moroder V16T debuted at a list price of approximately $280,000 in , positioning it as a premium offering in the market but struggling against established rivals like the . Sales were limited, with production hampered by the early economic , logistical challenges, and intense competition from Ferrari and models that dominated buyer attention. By , the made-to-order price had escalated to $650,000 for the —reflecting its growing exclusivity as a low-volume handbuilt —while the open-top Spyder TTJ variant reached $850,000. In recent years, the V16T's scarcity has driven significant appreciation in the collector market, with only nine to ten examples known to exist from the original run, making it one of the rarest supercars featuring a production . The prototype chassis 001 sold at auction in 2022 for $1.363 million, setting a benchmark for its unique status and historical significance. Market values continued to climb, as evidenced by a low-mileage example offered (but unsold) at Monterey auction in 2024 with an estimate of $700,000 to $900,000, underscoring rising demand for well-preserved units. Despite its commercial underperformance, the V16T has earned a as a "forgotten" exotic, celebrated for its audacious and Marcello styling that evoked an alternate evolution of designs. Owners frequently invest in restorations to maintain authenticity, with examples like a 2018 refurbishment by specialist Canepa highlighting the model's appeal among enthusiasts drawn to its transverse V16 powertrain and limited survival rate. This combination of rarity and technical novelty has solidified its place as a sought-after collectible, often commanding premiums at auctions over similarly aged supercars.

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