This ‘Champagne Métallique’ 1994 MCA GTB Centenaire is the last car produced of only 16 and the only example in this color. The Centenaire is thought to be the first car with a carbon fiber monocoque chassis paired to a carbon/kevlar body ever, and this particular example was first ordered by the famous designer, Pierre Cardin. Monte Carlo Automobile (MCA), founded in 1983 by industrial engineer and race car pilot Fulvio Ballabio, specializes in exotic, handmade racing and street-legal sports cars like this model. Ballabio partnered with ex-Ferrari Chief Engineer Carlo Chiti to enter the luxury sports car market and celebrate the centenary of the Automobile Club de Monaco. With support from Princess Stéphanie and Prince Albert, MCA brought together motorsport experts such as Guglielmo Bellasi, Renato Giusti, Pierluigi Corbari, Marcel Zunnino and others. The Centenaire was produced entirely in Monaco, and the first few examples were equipped with a Lamborghini V12. Though 100 units were planned (hence “Centenaire”), only 16 were built. In 1992, a coupé version internally carrying the name “Castagna” emerged, followed by the Centenaire Beau Rivage, a targa model. The Castagna name become involved due to Ballabio’s grandfather working for the famous coachbuilder, so an arrangement was made to use the name for the project. The racing division, Monte Carlo Motorsport, saw notable drivers like Clay Regazzoni and Henri Pescarolo participate. By 1993, Alexander Mingrelia acquired MCA, aiming to race in Le Mans with the updated Centenaire, now the MiG-Tako M100. Despite aspirations, the car didn’t pass initial qualifications. Later, MCA was acquired by Aixam-Mega, adding a Mercedes-Benz V12 and renaming it the ‘Mega Monte Carlo,’ but production issues halted racing ambitions. In 1994, an MCA Centenaire with a Lamborghini V12 won the 6 Hours of Vallelunga. Recently, the ex-Pierre Cardin MCA drew crowds at the 2024 Chantilly Arts & Elegance.
How many made: 1 of 16
Engine: 5.0L Twin-Turbo BMW V12
Debut: presented in Monaco, 1990
Top Speed: 186mph
0-60mph: 4.4 seconds
Photo Credit: @ab.spotauto (car owned by @kobus_cantraine)
Research: @rarecarsonly
1994 MCA GTB Centenaire
29.10.2024
MCA