This Pagani Zonda Won’t Drive, But It’ll Leave You in Awe

Art and automobiles often intersect in fascinating ways, but Uruguayan artist Joaquin Arbiza has taken this synergy to another level. With over 100,000 coins, Arbiza crafted a life-sized Pagani Zonda art car that pays homage to two icons: legendary footballer Lionel Messi and the unmistakable Zonda supercar. Dubbed the Pagani Zonda Carpincho, this creation shines not just as an art piece but also as a testament to dedication and craftsmanship.

A Collector’s Dream, Three Years in the Making

Commissioned by Jorge Gomez, a renowned car collector and enthusiast, the project took three years to complete. Gomez, who shares a deep connection to his Argentine heritage and passion for soccer, envisioned this dazzling tribute. The name Carpincho—Spanish for capybara—adds a playful touch, representing the whimsy and uniqueness of this creation.

Presented at Miami’s prestigious Art Week, the Zonda Carpincho instantly became a standout piece. Unlike its roaring V12-powered counterpart, this Zonda doesn’t run but is no less impressive. It weighs approximately 1,250 kilograms, the same as the original Pagani Zonda, thanks to the thousands of Uruguayan coins meticulously soldered onto its body.

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Details That Dazzle

The Zonda Carpincho is far from a simple replica. With half a million soldering points, Arbiza transformed a vision into reality. The hood features a portrait of Lionel Messi, a nod to Gomez’s admiration for the football legend. Every coin reflects not only Arbiza's craftsmanship but also the collector's love for small, pocket-sized currency—a curious yet strikingly effective design choice.

While the original Pagani Zonda is celebrated for its breathtaking performance and V12 engine, this art car carves its own niche as a masterpiece of creativity. Gomez and Arbiza have reimagined the concept of what a supercar can represent, blending automotive design, heritage, and artistry.

An Art Piece Worth Its Weight

Though the coins themselves may seem humble, the combined artistry elevates this Zonda to a value far exceeding its weight in metal. It’s estimated to be worth over 200,000 Uruguayan pesos—not for its monetary material but for the passion and creativity it represents.

A Celebration of Icons

The Zonda Carpincho stands as a tribute to two icons in their respective fields. The Pagani Zonda, a symbol of engineering brilliance, and Lionel Messi, a football legend, converge in this unique creation. It showcases how art and automobiles can transcend their functional roots to become cultural statements.