In the early 1990s, all the elements seemed to align for the Cizeta Moroder V16T to become a groundbreaking supercar. However, despite its promise and innovation, the project ultimately failed to achieve commercial success.
A Vision Born from Lamborghini Roots
Italian engineer Claudio Zampolli, based in the United States, worked with Lamborghini to restructure its distribution network. Inspired by the Lamborghini Countach, he envisioned a high-performance sports car that would surpass it in both design and engineering. However, such an ambitious project required substantial funding. A chance encounter at a Lamborghini dealership introduced him to renowned music producer Giorgio Moroder, who was captivated by the concept and agreed to partner with Zampolli.
Engineering Excellence with a Unique Powertrain
Named after Zampolli’s initials in Italian, the Cizeta Moroder was crafted by a team of ex-Lamborghini engineers. Among them was legendary designer Marcello Gandini, who initially developed the sketches for the Lamborghini Diablo before Chrysler, Lamborghini’s then-owner, modified the final design. Zampolli, demanding nothing but the best, insisted on a truly unique engine layout. Instead of a conventional V12, he opted for a V16 configuration—a 6.0-liter powerhouse featuring 8 camshafts and 64 valves, producing an impressive 540 horsepower and 544 Nm of torque. The engine was equipped with a Bosch K-Jetronic dual fuel injection system, ensuring high performance.
Impressive Speed and Performance
Built on a tubular chassis with a wide aluminum body measuring 2.05 meters at the rear, the Cizeta Moroder V16T was both striking and powerful. Weighing 1,702 kg, it could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 328 km/h. Its grand debut took place in 1988 at an exclusive event in Los Angeles, followed by appearances at the Los Angeles and Geneva Motor Shows in 1989. Initial orders were placed, and Moroder anticipated annual production figures between 50 and 100 units. However, a critical oversight emerged—the car was initially designed for the U.S. market but lacked proper homologation, significantly limiting its potential customer base.
Production Delays and Internal Conflicts
Manufactured in Modena, the Cizeta Moroder faced significant production delays. Frustrated by the slow progress, Moroder sought assistance from German tuning house Gemballa, known for modifying Porsches. Zampolli perceived this move as a betrayal, leading to a major fallout between the two partners. By 1990, Moroder exited the venture, taking the white prototype as compensation. Financially strained, the company managed to produce only seven units between 1991 and 1995. The car’s high price tag, combined with an economic downturn in Asia—its primary market—led to the company’s bankruptcy.
A Resilient Yet Unsuccessful Revival
Undeterred, Zampolli relocated production equipment to California in 1995, attempting to revive the brand. Two additional cars were built in 1999 and 2003, but ongoing financial struggles, personal bankruptcy, and legal issues ultimately halted the project. Despite being available for custom orders until 2018, no new buyers emerged. Zampolli passed away in 2021, and in 2022, Moroder’s original white prototype was auctioned for an impressive $1.36 million.
