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Maserati on Friday announced a new track-only supercar based on its MC20 road car, called the MCXtrema. First teased in 2022 as the Project24, it makes 730 hp from a modified version of the MC20's twin-turbo V-6, and will be limited to just 62 units.
Make no mistake: The MCXtrema is far more than a Maserati GT2 with more horsepower. The body is totally new, with its own set of aerodynamics and cooling channels to constantly ensure performance during lapping sessions. There's also a huge vertical shark fin wing along the rear, there to deliver stability during corners and improve the efficiency of the rear wing.
Underneath the skin of the MCXtrema is a carbon fiber monocoque chassis and double-wishbone suspension on all four corners. It's paired to four-way adjustable dampers, along with adjustable springs and sway bars. There are also carbon brakes and electric power steering.
The "Nettuno" 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 powering the MCXtrema shares its bones with the version found in the MC20, but features new turbochargers to make even more power. The engine still uses Maserati's signature pre-chamber ignition system, in this application making 730 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque. That's 109 hp more than the road car, but interestingly, the torque figure remains unchanged. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox and a mechanical self-locking limited-slip differential.
Maserati plans to build just 62 MCXtremas and, big surprise, they're all already sold. So if this is the first you're hearing of this car, it's already too late for you. We hope the lucky few get to enjoy the cars on track rather than keep them in climate-controlled garages.
Brian Silvestro is Hearst Autos' Lead Deputy Editor for rankings content. He spent over seven years as a staff writer for Road & Track Magazine, and still contributes regularly with car reviews, industry interviews, and more.
He also has a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing.
