Ferrari's 599 Successor Could Get 700 HP V12 But no AWD

Ferrari is a carmaker with the wind in its sails right now, after the successful launch of the new FF. But with so much of the automotive media’s attention focused on the new all-wheel drive part-timer, it’s easy to forget just how cool the Italian carmaker’s other GT offering can be.

Many have complained that the FF, while a true technological marvel, doesn’t provide the same thrills as a supercar because of its safety-first platform. The answer to this problem could be the next generation of 599.

According to PistonHeads, the front-engined GT will also be lighter and faster, but it will keep sending its power to the rear wheels only. While the part-time 4x4 system used in the FF, which is basically an extra two-speed box added to the front of the V12 crankcase, the publication bot a clear indication of the fact that the 599 will stay pure from the Ferrari officials present at the FF event last week. This included the Prancing Horse’s test driver, Raffaele De Simone, who should be very familiar with the matter.

The other big piece of information is that the output of the next front-engined GT could be around the 700 horsepower mark. This estimation is based on the increased potency of the new FF over its 612 Scaglietti predecessor and on the fact that Ferrari like their range-toppers to be nice and potent.

The Ferrari test driver also hinted at the fact that the 599 could go on a slight diet, but we don’t expect to see any radical use of exotic materials. "The history of aluminium is not finished yet," he said, pointing out that carbon fiber is still not an economically viable option larger volume production.