In its 30 year history, the Italian carmaker Pagani has produced just two models, the Zonda and the Huayra, which then have been transformed into better versions of themselves. Pagani has done this with the Zonda before, now they have done it with the Huayra. This is the Huayra R, the track-only supercar from Pagani.

The Huayra R may not look different from the non-R version, though this one packs a host of unique features and parts, including a bespoke naturally aspirated V12 engine. Let’s talk about that engine, Pagani sources its engines from Mercedes, which supplies the Italian carmaker with naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engines.

However, the Huayra R needed something special, so Pagani partnered with HWA AG, Mercedes-Benz’s racing subsidiary, to design and build a bespoke engine. The result is a potent mill that produces 850 horsepower and 750 Newton-meters of torque. That power comes with a screaming 9,000 rpm redline and Pagani claims the Huayra R will sound like a Formula 1 car of yesteryear.

Pagani uses an Inconel exhaust system developed specifically for the R. It features identical length exhaust pipes for all 12 cylinders, which Pagani pairs with uniquely designed manifolds and tailpipes. The track-only supercar comes equipped with mufflers that can be fitted to reduce the exhaust note to be within the 110-decibel FIA sound limit for noise-restricted tracks.

Pagani builds the car around a new carbon-titanium monocoque chassis, which uses the engine and transmission as integral parts to increase stiffness and rigidity. Power routes to the rear wheels through a six-speed non-synchronized dog-ring sequential gearbox. A pair of active aero flaps at the rear help the car manage its aerodynamics. The car produces 1,000 kilograms of downforce at 320 kilometers per hour. The R weighs only 1,050 kg dry.

Pagani plans to produce just 30 examples of the Huayra R, each costing €2.6 million or $3.1 million at current exchange rates plus tax.