Ferrari has a quick turnover rate when it comes to its front-engined V12s — they only live for about five years before they’re replaced. So, it’s time to put the F12 out to pasture and welcome the new Ferrari 812 Superfast with its 790 horsepower, 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12.
The name may seem silly and a little on the nose, but it actually harks back to the Ferrari America V12 series of the ’50s and ’60s, with the last one in the series named the 500 Superfast. The new Superfast, however, has Ferrari’s most powerful naturally aspirated engine bolted up front, which doesn’t see its peak power until 8,500 rpm. Sixty mph happens in under three seconds, and you can bet it will either match or surpass the F12berlinetta’s top speed of 211 mph (and probably the F12’s $319,000 MSRP, too).
Some believe the 812 is Ferrari’s last naturally aspirated V12, but there’s really no evidence to support that. Not to mention Enzo Ferrari would probably be spinning at 8,500 rpm in his grave if that were to be true. The 812 is more likely Ferrari’s last non-hybrid V12. Which is a good thing, because that way we don’t have to fear losing the orchestral sound of a high-revving Ferrari V12 — instead we’ll get more torque thanks to battery power. It’s win-win.
Details are scant at the moment, but the new 812 Superfast will make its official debut at this year’s Geneva Auto Show, where you can expect a full spec sheet and a better idea of what Ferrari’s new flagship is really capable of.
More Auto Show News:
North American International Auto Show
Geneva Motor Show 2016
