This 'Race-Worn' Pagani Utopia Is the Hypercar Equivalent of Pre-Ripped Jeans.

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      Those who can afford to spend over a million dollars on a custom hypercar often choose eye-catching color combinations to ensure their vehicle stands out. However, this particular Pagani Utopia, commissioned by one client, may be one of the most distinctive we've seen recently. Similar to the pre-torn denim trend of the early 2000s, this Utopia appears to draw inspiration from endurance racing, but the effect it aims for isn’t very convincing.

      Pagani refers to it as “The Coyote” (it's unclear if this name was given by the buyer or the manufacturer) and describes it as “a fleeting glimpse of a livery shaped by endurance: untamed, imperfect, alive.” Its red and blue accents evoke a Martini-liveried Porsche, but what sets this Utopia apart are the faux tears extending from the wheel wells, floor, and lower part of the front bumper, exposing a “bare” carbon fiber beneath.

      In my opinion, there are two significant issues with this design. Firstly, it's unattractive. From afar, it resembles abrasions drawn with a marker. Secondly, cars that have truly endured a full day of racing do not typically look like this Pagani. Fortunately, the World Endurance Championship’s YouTube account shared a video after last year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans that illustrates this point.

      Take a look at the finishers. They are covered in layers of dirt and tar, dust accumulated on the wheels and surrounding body, and charred sections near the exhaust pipes. What is absent are ragged strips of wraps and vinyl appearing as if they have been shredded by claws. The whole concept feels even more superficial because it's clear the owner will never subject this vehicle to the same rigorous conditions as those battle-worn competitors of the Mulsanne. Interestingly, only one Pagani has ever actually participated in Le Mans, and that was a Zonda way back in 2003.

      While credit is due for the appealing interior color scheme, as showcased on paganiautomobili via Instagram, ultimately this individual can spend his money as he sees fit. This marks his third Pagani, as stated by the company, and they describe this “collector” as someone who “doesn’t just configure a car but shapes a fragment of himself into every line and stitch, with patience, care, and almost meditative devotion.” That’s hard to dispute; he has indeed commissioned a Utopia that is uniquely his own. I can’t help but wonder, though, if this signals a shift in trends. Some argue cargo shorts are making a return; could distressed denim follow suit?

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