Capricorn 01 Zagato: In an era when hypercars are obsessed with hybrid systems, active aerodynamics, and digital dominance, the Capricorn 01 Zagato stands as a stunning act of rebellion. This is not just another addition to the ultra-exclusive supercar club — it’s a handcrafted tribute to raw, mechanical driving purity. Built by Capricorn Group, a discreet German engineering powerhouse known for its work on the Bugatti Veyron, Chiron, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918 Spyder, the 01 Zagato represents the company’s first foray into building a complete car of its own. And it’s chosen to do so with passion, precision, and an almost nostalgic disregard for modern trends.
The story begins with a friendship — Capricorn’s CEO and the legendary Zagato design house share a close bond. Together, they’ve created a machine that combines German engineering, Italian artistry, and American muscle. The result? A 900+ horsepower, rear-wheel-drive hypercar that’s as analogue as it is astonishing. From the double-bubble roof to the open-gated five-speed manual gearbox, everything about the Capricorn 01 Zagato screams purity and intent. This is a car designed for drivers, not data collectors.
What truly sets the 01 Zagato apart is its philosophy. While the hypercar world chases record-breaking horsepower, electric torque-fill, and lap times, Capricorn has gone the opposite way — focusing on balance, feel, and predictability. There’s no hybrid system, no active aero, and no touchscreen infotainment. Instead, there’s carbon fiber craftsmanship, analogue dials, toggle switches, and the growl of a supercharged V8 under a glass engine cover. It’s both a technological marvel and a spiritual successor to the golden era of driving.
Capricorn 01 Zagato Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Capricorn 01 Zagato |
| Manufacturer | Capricorn Group (Germany) |
| Designer | Zagato (Italy) |
| Engine Type | 5.2L Supercharged Ford V8 (heavily modified) |
| Power Output | 900+ hp |
| Torque | 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual (dog-leg first) |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive |
| Chassis & Body | Full carbon fiber tub and subframes |
| Weight | Approx. 1,200 kg |
| Top Speed | 224 mph (360 km/h) |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | Under 3 seconds |
| Brakes | Carbon-ceramic |
| Production | Limited to 19 units |
| Price | £2.5 million (plus taxes) |
| Launch Year | 2025 |
Design and Aesthetics
The Capricorn 01 Zagato is a work of sculptural beauty. With design cues borrowed from the Ford GT, Koenigsegg, and classic 1960s endurance racers, it strikes the perfect balance between aggression and grace. The double-bubble roof — a signature Zagato feature — enhances aerodynamics while paying homage to racing history. Every line, curve, and vent has been purposefully crafted to look timeless, not trendy.
Unlike many modern hypercars that rely on towering wings and complex aero systems, the 01 Zagato uses subtle, integrated aerodynamic forms. Capricorn and Zagato emphasize stability and confidence over sheer downforce numbers. It’s a machine that cuts through the air with elegance, not exaggeration.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the beautifully sculpted carbon shell lies an engine that’s pure theatre. The 5.2-liter supercharged V8 started life as a Ford unit but has been completely re-engineered by Capricorn. With forged internals, a bespoke ECU, and meticulous tuning, the engine delivers over 900 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque.
This power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels via a five-speed gated manual gearbox — a rarity in today’s paddle-shift world. The manual transmission transforms the driving experience into something raw and emotional, with every shift offering mechanical precision and a deep sense of engagement.
With a top speed of 224 mph and a sub-three-second 0–62 mph time, the 01 Zagato doesn’t just rely on nostalgia; it backs it up with sheer performance. Its lightweight 1,200 kg chassis and ceramic brakes ensure agility and control, while the absence of hybrid systems keeps the driving connection pure.
Interior and Craftsmanship
Step inside, and the Capricorn 01 Zagato immediately transports you to a time when driving was an art form. There’s no infotainment screen, no digital clutter — just beautifully machined switches, analogue dials, and handcrafted leather. The cabin follows a “no distractions” philosophy, offering only what’s essential for the experience: the steering wheel, gear lever, pedals, and the open road.
Each of the 19 interiors will be individually tailored to its owner’s specifications, combining Italian luxury with German precision. Expect a harmonious blend of carbon fiber, aluminium, Alcantara, and Zagato’s signature double-stitched patterns.
Exterior Details
The 01 Zagato’s carbon bodywork showcases Zagato’s century-old design expertise. Every panel is aerodynamically efficient yet visually striking. The long, sleek proportions, muscular haunches, and low-slung stance give the car a distinctive identity among hypercars. The glass engine cover, showcasing the V8 surrounded by gold heat shielding, serves as both a technical and aesthetic centerpiece.
Price and Availability
With a starting price of £2.5 million (plus taxes), the Capricorn 01 Zagato is reserved for an elite few. Production is limited to just 19 units, ensuring absolute exclusivity. Each car will be hand-assembled in Germany and customized per buyer preference.
Launch Date and Production Plans
The Capricorn 01 Zagato will begin production in late 2025, with the first deliveries expected in 2026. Interestingly, Capricorn has hinted at scaling up its operations for future collaborations, potentially producing 100–200 cars annually. This signals that the company aims to become a hypercar manufacturing partner for other ambitious brands, much like HWA or Manifattura Automobili Torino.
Other Notable Details
- No hybrid system or active aerodynamics — purely mechanical engineering.
- Carbon-fiber tub ensures superior rigidity and weight reduction.
- Designed for emotional engagement, not statistical supremacy.
- Represents a collaboration between German engineering and Italian design excellence.
- An invitation for the super-rich to experience driving in its most analog, unfiltered form.
Also read: Mini Convertible Review (2025): The Stylish Drop-Top That Keeps the Fun Alive
Conclusion
The Capricorn 01 Zagato is more than just another hypercar — it’s a manifesto. It represents a counter-movement to the tech-heavy, digitally assisted hypercars dominating the market. It’s for those who crave the feel of a clutch pedal, the sound of a raw V8, and the tactile joy of a gated shifter.
Capricorn’s decision to build this car after decades of supplying components to others is both symbolic and strategic. It demonstrates not only their engineering mastery but also a desire to preserve the soul of driving. By rejecting hybrid complexity and aerodynamic gimmicks, they’ve created a purist’s dream — a machine that values connection over computation.
The Zagato influence ensures that this car isn’t just a feat of engineering but also a rolling work of art. Every element, from the double-bubble roof to the minimalist cockpit, exudes authenticity. It’s a celebration of design, craftsmanship, and human involvement in an increasingly autonomous world.
For those few who can afford it, the Capricorn 01 Zagato isn’t merely transportation — it’s an emotional experience, a legacy piece, and a testament to what happens when art, engineering, and passion unite.
FAQs About Capricorn 01 Zagato
1. Who makes the Capricorn 01 Zagato?
The Capricorn 01 Zagato is built by Capricorn Group, a German engineering company known for its work on cars like the Bugatti Chiron, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918 Spyder. The car’s body design is by Zagato, the renowned Italian coachbuilder.
2. What engine powers the Capricorn 01 Zagato?
It features a 5.2-liter supercharged V8, originally based on a Ford engine but heavily modified by Capricorn. It produces over 900 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque, delivering explosive performance without any hybrid assistance.
3. Is the Capricorn 01 Zagato a hybrid or electric hypercar?
No. The 01 Zagato rejects hybridization entirely. It’s a purely petrol-powered hypercar with no electric components or active aero systems — designed to deliver an authentic analogue driving experience.
4. How much does the Capricorn 01 Zagato cost?
The car is priced at £2.5 million (plus taxes). Only 19 units will be built, each tailored to the owner’s preferences, making it one of the most exclusive hypercars on the planet.
5. When will the Capricorn 01 Zagato be available?
Production is scheduled to start in late 2025, with deliveries expected in 2026. Capricorn has also announced its readiness to take on future hypercar projects, potentially producing 100–200 cars per year in collaboration with other brands.
