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Everything You Need to Know About the Ferrari 812 Superfast's Glorious V12

Launched in 2017 as the successor of the mighty F12berlinetta, the 812 Superfast is a marvel of modern engineering powered by one of the most powerful naturally aspirated 12-cylinder engines ever produced in Maranello.
Ferrari 812 Superfast V12 8 photos
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
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The front-engine, rear-drive, two-seat super GT traces its roots back to the legendary 250 Europa GT, the first legitimate grand tourer released by the Italian carmaker back in the mid-‘50s.

It made its debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, seventy years after the release of the brand’s first model, the 125 S. The latter was powered by the Gioacchino Colombo-designed V12 that became synonymous with Ferrari performance for decades.

To honor that powerplant, engineers focused on exploring the wealth of racing-derived experience gathered over seven decades and managed to develop one of the most powerful V12 to ever grace a Ferrari.

Codenamed F140 GA, the engine is a descendant of the record-setting F140 B unit that was used by the Enzo Ferrari and the direct successor of the powerplant used on the F12berlinetta.

Ferrari 812 Superfast's V12
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
It features an optimized intake system and improved combustion efficiency that enabled engineers to increase its displacement from 6.2 to 6.5 liters (378 to 397 cu in). It is fitted with a new 350 bar direct injection system and features an updated control unit for the variable geometry inlet tracts, which is similar to those used by F1 engines.

To ensure an even more exciting sound, the exhaust system was extensively redesigned. All the pipes that connect the 6-in-1 manifold to the catalytic converter are now of equal length, and the geometry of the central extension pipes was also optimized.

The Manettino settings were also comprehensively calibrated to improve the engine’s potential and provide progressive power delivery at all engine speeds.

These modifications result in a maximum power output of 789 hp (588 kW; 800 PS) available at 8,500 rpm, which makes it one of the most capable naturally aspirated V12 units ever manufactured by Ferrari.

Ferrari 812 Superfast
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
Another mind-blowing figure for an engine that features the Prancing Horse badge is the 718 Nm (530 lb-ft) of peak torque accessible around 7,000 rpm.

The manufacturer states that 80% of the maximum torque is available at just 3,500 rpm, which should exponentially improve performance at low engine speeds.

Coupled with the shape of the power curve, drivers are guaranteed a thrilling feel of limitless power and acceleration as the 812 Superfast can reach 100 kph (62 mph) from a standstill in just 2.9 seconds. It can also reach a maximum top speed of 340 kph (211 mph).

These sensational specs are made possible by the power to weight ratio of 2.18 kg (4.81 lbs) per metric horsepower (PS). To provide excellent handling at high speed, the weight distribution is set at 47% front and 53% rear.

The super GT uses a rear-mounted seven-speed 7DCL750 dual-clutch transmission manufactured by German experts Magna PT (formerly GETRAG). This transmission is shared with the SLS AMG, AMG GT, and second-generation Ford GT.

Ferrari 812 Superfast
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
The 812 Superfast is the first Ferrari to use electronic power steering; it also uses the advanced rear-wheel-steering system derived from the limited edition F12 TDF.

Designed by Ferrari’s own Centro Stile, the 812 Superfast is inspired by the preceding F12berlinetta and past GT models such as the 365 GTB/4. However, the brilliant V12 is the highlight of this model and will go down In history as one of the most capable twelve-cylinders ever assembled.
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About the author: Vlad Radu
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Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times.
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