The Zonda S 7.3 of 2002 used a new, larger V12 engine displacing 7.3 L (445 cu in) designed and manufactured by Mercedes-Benz AMG producing 555 PS (408 kW; 547 hp) and 750 N·m (550 lb·ft), to better handle the power, traction control and ABS were made standard. Performance claims were unchanged from the Zonda S.
In February 2003 the UK automotive magazine EVO attempted a top speed run on the Autobahn in which the car topped out at 198 mph (319 km/h), 10 mph (16 km/h) off the mark of its claimed top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h). Company representatives at Pagani's factory claimed this was the result of the car being in the setting for maximum down force, something that would drop its top speed to around 200 mph (320 km/h). However, the EVO article claimed that aerodynamic parts, specifically ones which created drag were in fact removed during the run, bringing Pagani's claims into question.
In February 2003 the UK automotive magazine EVO attempted a top speed run on the Autobahn in which the car topped out at 198 mph (319 km/h), 10 mph (16 km/h) off the mark of its claimed top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h). Company representatives at Pagani's factory claimed this was the result of the car being in the setting for maximum down force, something that would drop its top speed to around 200 mph (320 km/h). However, the EVO article claimed that aerodynamic parts, specifically ones which created drag were in fact removed during the run, bringing Pagani's claims into question.
