Development
Under the direction of Giorgio Ascanelli, Maserati began development of an FIA GT-eligible race car. This car, which would eventually be named the MC12, was initially called the MCC (Maserati Corse Competizione) and it was to be developed simultaneously with a road going version, the MCS (Maserati Corse Stradale). Frank Stephenson did the majority of the body styling, but the initial shape was developed during wind tunnel testing from an idea by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The MCC had a very similar body shape to the MC12 but there are several key differences, most notably the rear spoiler. Andrea Bertolini served as the chief test driver throughout development, although some testing was done by Michael Schumacher, who frequently tested the MCC at the Fiorano Circuit. During the development process, the MCC name was set aside after Maserati established the car's official name, MC12.
The car is based heavily on the Enzo Ferrari, using a slightly modified version of the Ferrari Dino V12, the same gearbox (but given the unique name of Maserati Cambiocorsa) and the same chassis and track (length of axle between the wheels). The windshield is the only externally visible component shared with the Enzo; the MC12 has a unique body which is wider, longer and slightly taller. The increased size creates greater downforce across the MC12's body in addition to the downforce created by the two metre spoiler.
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