Zagato Mostro: Ultra-Rare Maserati with Just 5 Units Built

Rare Roar - In a world where automotive design often leans toward mass production and uniformity, there exists a niche where rarity and craftsmanship still reign supreme. For enthusiasts who crave not just performance but also individuality and heritage, certain machines stand out not merely as cars—but as works of art. Among these extraordinary creations is the Zagato Maserati Mostro, a car that emerged not just as a nod to the past but as a bold statement in the present.

The Zagato Maserati Mostro made its debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este 2015. (Picture from: Pistonudos)

This automotive jewel was unveiled in 2015, during the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, an event that celebrates the finest in car design and historical significance. Built to mark Maserati’s 100th anniversary, the Zagato Maserati Mostro wasn’t just a birthday present—it was a tribute to decades of Italian elegance, performance, and passion. Only five units of this ultra-exclusive model were made, instantly elevating it to collector status.

 

At the heart of the story is Zagato, an independent Milan-based design house with a legacy of shaping some of the most stunning vehicles in automotive history. Founded in 1919 by Ugo Zagato, the atelier gained recognition for its combination of aerodynamic aesthetics and lightweight construction, qualities that naturally aligned with racing demands. Over the decades, Zagato has collaborated with numerous iconic brands, including Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, and of course, Maserati. Their partnership has always produced cars that don’t just perform—they speak. 

The Zagato Maserati Mostro, built on a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, integrates a tubular steel frame to enhance rigidity and safety while remaining lightweight. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The Mostro draws direct inspiration from the legendary 1957 Maserati 450 S Coupe Zagato, which was originally built for racing legend Sir Stirling Moss. That car, often referred to as "Il Mostro" or "The Monster," due to its powerful presence on the track, serves as the spiritual ancestor of the 2015 creation. The new model embraces its lineage without being trapped by it. Its long, sculpted hood and distinctive curves echo the glory days of 1950s endurance racing, yet its materials and engineering are completely modern.

 

Built on a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, the Mostro integrates a tubular steel frame for added rigidity and safety, creating a structure that's both strong and lightweight. Its bodywork is also made from carbon fiber, maximizing agility and enhancing aerodynamics. One of its most notable design choices is the fixed rear wing, a functional feature that improves high-speed stability while also contributing to the car’s dramatic silhouette.

The Zagato Maserati Mostro's cabin is a refined two-seater built with minimalist precision, featuring racing harnesses and a custom steering wheel for a pure driving experience. (Picture from: Automotor.hu)

Equally impressive are the car’s doors, which open forward and slightly upward in a unique, almost ceremonial motion. This flair is complemented by 19-inch wire wheels fitted with high-performance tires—an elegant nod to classic race cars, seamlessly blended with modern functionality. 

Under the hood, the Mostro doesn’t disappoint. It houses a Maserati-sourced V8 engine mounted in a front-mid position for optimal weight distribution. Featuring dry-sump lubrication and a customizable engine management system, the powerplant is paired with a six-speed semi-automatic transmission positioned at the rear, forming a classic transaxle setup. This layout not only enhances handling but also reflects the performance pedigree at the core of the vehicle’s design.

The Zagato Maserati Mostro adorned with the massive fixed rear wing, a functional feature that improves high-speed stability while also contributing to the car’s dramatic silhouette. (Picture from: Pistonudos)

Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist yet refined approach. It’s strictly a two-seater, emphasizing the purity of the driving experience. The seats are fitted with racing harnesses, and the steering wheel is tailored to match the car’s bespoke nature. There’s no unnecessary clutter—just a clear focus on control, connection, and craftsmanship.

 

When it debuted, all five units of the Zagato Maserati Mostro were already spoken for, each promised to be delivered before the end of 2015. Even though the price was never publicly revealed, it became instantly clear that this car was never about market appeal—it was about emotion, exclusivity, and legacy.

Today, the Zagato Maserati Mostro remains one of the finest examples of what can emerge when two legendary Italian names unite with a shared vision—more than a celebration of heritage, it stands as a symbol of enduring artistry in an era where such craftsmanship is rare, and its legacy evolved further with the introduction of the Barchetta version in 2022. *** [EKA [31052015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WORLDCARFANS | PISTONUDOS | CARSTYLING.RU | AUTOMOTOR.HU | SUPERCARS.NET ]

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