Why No Headlight Covers on Maserati MC12 & Ferrari FXX?

In summary, the uncovered headlights on the Maserati MC12 and the Ferrari FXX just irk me... it just feels like having a plastic cover over them would be a better aerodynamic solution if not a cosmetic improvement. However, the fact they're not there in the first place makes me believe they'd be hindering performance if they were there.
  • #1
David Laz
28
0
I'm no fluid dynamics/aerodynamics expert, but the uncovered headlights on the Maserati MC12 and the Ferrari FXX just irk me... it just feels like having a plastic cover over them would be a better aerodynamic solution if not a cosmetic improvement. However the fact they're not there in the first place makes me believe they'd be hindering performance if they were there.

Anyone able to explain to me why Ferrari/Maserati don't have headlight covers on these 2 ultra high performance cars?

here are some links to see what I'm talking about if you are unfamiliar with these cars.
http://img339.imageshack.us/my.php?image=44037picture004123225looo0.jpg
http://img339.imageshack.us/my.php?image=44050picture007123216lojc0.jpg
http://img441.imageshack.us/my.php?image=30329img7875122483lo2c6tp4.jpg
http://img150.imageshack.us/my.php?image=fxxdsc001812c5e154fkc9.jpg
http://img441.imageshack.us/my.php?image=674302828590b122499lo2cod3.jpg
 
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  • #2
I don't know about the 2nd, more glaring, example. The close-ups of the first model are intriguing. It appears to me that the enclosure might be designed to deflect airflow past the opening. If so, it wouldn't hurt anything. Also, the lights are small enough that they might not make a noticeable difference with an engine like that providing the motivation.
Thanks for the great pix. :cool:
 
  • #3
The guys at ferrari have wind tunnels, soooo I don't think it was an omission on their part.
 
  • #4
Most pictures of the Maserati that I've found do have headlight covers. All of the racing versions seem to. Maybe they're easy to remove, and some people think it looks better without them :confused:.
 
  • #5
Hmmm you're probably right. And yeah now that I've checked all the MC12 Corsa pics I have do have headlight covers on em.

For those interested there are hundreds of awesome HQ pics at http://www.jabbasworld.net/index.php just click on the 'Car Gallery' -> 'Ultimate Picture' board.
 
  • #6
Digging around a little more, it looks like all of the racing versions come with headlight covers, but the the regular ones do not. Some guy decided to pay a company (Edo) 100k Euros to modify his MC12. That included the addition of headlight covers. They apparently sell these covers separately now.

Maybe Maserati left the covers off to keep the car from going as fast as the Enzo :rolleyes:. I wouldn't be surprised with Ferrari's politics...
 

1. Why don't Maserati MC12 and Ferrari FXX have headlight covers?

There are a few reasons why these supercars do not have headlight covers. For one, the lack of headlight covers helps with aerodynamics and makes the cars more streamlined, which is important for high speeds. Additionally, these cars are designed for track use, so they do not need to meet the same regulations as regular road cars, which often require headlight covers for safety purposes. The exposed headlights also add to the aggressive and sporty look of these cars.

2. Are there any disadvantages to not having headlight covers on these cars?

While headlight covers may provide some protection for the headlights, they can also decrease visibility and potentially impact the performance of the car. By not having headlight covers, these supercars are able to maximize aerodynamics and maintain their sleek designs. However, this may also make the headlights more vulnerable to damage from debris or rocks on the track.

3. Do other supercars also lack headlight covers?

Yes, there are other high-performance cars that do not have headlight covers, such as the Lamborghini Aventador and the McLaren P1. Like the Maserati MC12 and Ferrari FXX, these cars prioritize aerodynamics and track performance over the added protection of headlight covers.

4. Are there any aftermarket headlight covers available for these cars?

Since these cars are designed for track use, there is not much demand for aftermarket headlight covers. However, there are some aftermarket options available for those who wish to add headlight covers for aesthetic or protective purposes. It is important to note that adding aftermarket parts may void the warranty and could potentially impact the performance of the car.

5. Could these cars be equipped with headlight covers for road use?

While it is possible to add headlight covers to these cars for road use, it may not be practical or necessary. These cars are not intended for everyday road use and may not meet the necessary regulations for adding headlight covers. Additionally, adding headlight covers may affect the aerodynamics and performance of the car, which goes against the purpose of these high-performance vehicles.

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