Ladies and gentlemen drivers, we'll get to the presentation of the brand spanking new Ferrari 812 GTS in a moment. However, I would like to introduce you to this V12 tale by mentioning that I've brought along a rendering portraying a standout spec that contrasts with the grey configuration shown in the official photos.
Following a series of leaks, Ferrari has introduced the drop-top versions of the F8 (Spider) and 812 (GTS). However, while the first is a natural progression in the Maranello family tree, the second brings a new era for the Prancing Horse: not since 1973, when the 365 GTS/4 Dayton Spider went out of production, has Ferrari offered an open-top V12 model without this being a limited edition.
So while cars like the 599-based SA Aperta or the F12-built F60 America were only handed over to VIP customers, the brand spanking new 812 GTS if offered to any mortal... who has the financial resources to wellcome such a toy into the garage.
While the newcomer is otherwise technically identical to the 812 Superfast, that gorgeous Targa-style top, which, much to nobody's surprise, involves a folding metallic roof, brings a weight penalty of 165 lbs (75 kilos), so it's almost as if you were driving around in a coupe with somebody riding shotgun.
It's also worth noting that the GTS comes with a GPF (gasoline particulate filter). It's unclear whether this brings an extra scale footprint drawback in relation to the number above or how it impact the roar of that naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12. But since you can now lower the rear power window to bring the 8,900 rpm combustion music closer, this shouln't be a reason to fret.
With the V12 delivering the same 800 hp and 530 lb-ft (718 Nm) of torque, the maximum velocity of the GTS matches that of the coupe, sitting at 211 mph (340 km/h).
As for the acceleration times, Ferrari explains the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint is covered in "under 3s" (the 812 Superfast is listed at 2.9s), while the 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) takes 8.3s in the spider and 7.9s in the berlinetta.
In terms of ride and handling, the carmaker explains that the magnetorheological active dampers come with the same cozy setup as that of the coupe, despite the said extra weight.
On the aero front, the dissapearance of the rear wheelarch bypass was compensated for by new vents and an added flap for the rear diffuser.
We'll be able to meet the Ferrari 812 GTS and F8 Spider in the aluminium later this week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with pricing expected to be announced at the German event.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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