At the upcoming 87th Geneva International Motor Show, Ferrari will be debuting the new 812 Superfast, a V12 masterpiece that was announced today. The release of this car fits perfectly in Ferrari’s timeline because 70 years ago to this year they released the 125 S, a V12 automobile that would start the Prancing Horse’s history.
If the name “Superfast” sounds familiar to you, that’s probably because of the 500 Superfast, which was produced from 1964-66. These models were supposed to don the name “Superamerica,” a name we’re quite familiar with but was changed to Superfast before all was said and done.
Underneath the hood of the 812 Superfast is a massive 6.5-liter V12 engine that’s capable of 789 hp and 529 lb-ft of torque. With these specs, this new Italian becomes the most powerful car featuring a V12 that Ferrari has ever created. Ferrari notes in a press release today that this was made possible in part “by adopting a 350 bar direct injection system for the very first time on a high-performance engine and pairing it with variable geometry intake tracts conceptually derived from those of naturally-aspirated F1 engines.” Mated to this engine is a dual-clutch transmission.
With 80% of its power available at just 3.500 rpm, the 812 Superfast can rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds. What’s more, it has a top speed of over 211 mph. The press release notes that this is “the most powerful and fastest Ferrari in the marque’s history.” Of course, this notion does not include the LaFerrari.
For handling, Ferrari has included Electronic Power Steering (EPS) for the first time. With the addition of EPS, the 812 Superfast can use its V12 to its fullest potential when being pushed hard around a track. Also aiding in the car’s handling is the latest version of the automaker’s Side Slip Control and, for the first time, the Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0 system (PCV).
As a true successor to the F12berlinetta, the 812 Superfast exceeds expectations in just about every department.