By Allyson 
The automotive world is no stranger to stunning machines, but the Ferrari 812 Superfast manages to stand in a league of its own. Born from a legacy of excellence, this grand tourer represents Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of perfection. As the successor to the F12, the 812 Superfast is a two-seater GT (grand tourer) that takes speed and comfort to new heights. Built for long-distance travel with outrageous speed, the 812 Superfast has become a symbol of escape, both from the mundane and into a world where spectacular performance is the norm.
Let’s delve into what makes this beast of a car truly special.
The Heart of the Beast: Naturally Aspirated V12 Engine
At the core of the Ferrari 812 Superfast is its breathtaking engine — a naturally aspirated V12. This is a rarity in today’s world, where turbochargers and superchargers dominate the automotive landscape. Yet, Ferrari has held on to its traditions with this six-and-a-half-liter engine, delivering a monstrous 800 horsepower, hence the name ‘Superfast.’ This power propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph.
What’s striking about this V12 is the way it builds power. The engine produces 718 Newton-meters of torque at 7,000 rpm, providing an immense sense of strength throughout the rev range. It’s not just a car that excels at launching itself forward in a straight line — the power delivery is relentless no matter where you are in the rev range, making every drive an unforgettable experience.
A Dying Breed
With emissions regulations tightening and electrification taking over, the naturally aspirated engine is on the verge of extinction. The 812 Superfast might very well be one of the last of its kind, which makes it all the more special. Ferrari has poured everything it has learned into this engine, creating an artifact of mechanical brilliance that future generations will admire.
As Enzo Ferrari famously said, “When you buy a Ferrari, you pay for the engine and he throws the rest of the car in for free.” That’s certainly true with the 812 Superfast, where the engine feels like a work of art.
Design That Defies Mundane
Ferrari has always been about making statements, and the design of the 812 Superfast is no exception. It’s a dramatic departure from the mundane, with every detail meticulously crafted to enhance both performance and aesthetics.
- Front Lights & Vents: The front lights are seamlessly integrated into the car’s design, merging with the vents on the bonnet to optimize aerodynamics.
- Sculpted Sides: The side panels are sculpted to channel high-pressure air from the wheel arches along the doors, improving airflow and stability.
- Splitter and Diffuser: The suspended splitter at the front increases the effectiveness of the diffuser at the rear, functioning much like the wing of a biplane. It ensures the car stays glued to the road, even at breakneck speeds.
Read More- Lamborghini Huracan Evo RWD: A Fearsome Return to Its Roots
An Endless Bonnet
One of the most distinctive features of the 812 Superfast is its incredibly long bonnet. There’s so much of it, in fact, that Ferrari had to add a darker section towards the windshield to disguise just how lengthy it is. But the car’s balanced proportions prevent it from feeling overdone. The overall design, while aggressive, maintains the elegance expected from Ferrari.
A Front-Mid Engine
Though it appears to be a front-engine car, the 812 Superfast actually has a front-mid engine layout. This provides better weight distribution, crucial for handling a car with so much power. The engine sits closer to the middle of the car than one might expect, ensuring it drives as dynamically as possible.
Interior: Minimalist, Yet Special
The cabin of the 812 Superfast strikes a fine balance between minimalist design and race-inspired functionality. The cockpit is all about the driver, but the passenger isn’t left out either.
- Steering Wheel: Made from a mix of carbon fiber and leather, the steering wheel is a joy to handle. It’s covered in buttons, eliminating the need for traditional stalks. Everything from the indicators and lights to the suspension controls is handled via buttons on the wheel itself.
- Manettino Dial: The signature Ferrari manettino dial is present here, allowing the driver to switch between modes like Sport, Race, and CT-off (traction control off). This is where the car’s true personality comes to life, whether you’re driving on wet roads or pushing the limits on a track.
- Passenger Display: Even the passenger gets in on the action, thanks to a display that shows critical performance data like G-forces and revs.
A Grand Tourer with a Twist
While it is undoubtedly a grand tourer, the 812 Superfast has its quirks. For one, it’s not the most refined car for long journeys. The engine tends to rev a little too high during cruising, and the suspension, while great for handling, can feel too firm on rough roads. There’s also a considerable amount of tire noise, and with a 90-liter fuel tank, don’t expect to cover long distances without frequent stops at the gas station.
However, these flaws are easily forgiven when you consider its supercar credentials. When driven hard, the 812 Superfast comes alive. The sensation of speed, the engine’s roar, and the constant feedback from the road make it a car that demands every ounce of your attention.
Handling: The Wild Stallion
Driving the Ferrari 812 Superfast is an experience in itself. It’s not a car that coddles you — it demands precision. The all-wheel steering system contributes to incredibly sharp handling, making the car feel almost like it has a short wheelbase. The steering is so responsive that it requires measured inputs to avoid oversteer or losing control during sudden direction changes.
The firm suspension and aggressive nature of the car mean that traction can be lost and regained in an instant. You could be cruising along with all the grip in the world, only for the car to lose it for a split second, requiring constant focus and skill from the driver.
The End of an Era
With the world shifting towards electrification, the days of large, naturally aspirated V12 engines are numbered. The Ferrari 812 Superfast is a defiant last stand for internal combustion, a celebration of everything that makes traditional supercars great.
Ferrari has crafted a machine that captures the imagination, offering freedom in its purest form — just you, the car, and miles of open road. This might be one of the last chances to experience such raw, unfiltered performance.
FAQs about Ferrari 812 Superfast
1. What makes the Ferrari 812 Superfast stand out?
The Ferrari 812 Superfast stands out due to its naturally aspirated V12 engine, aggressive design, and remarkable performance, all while maintaining Ferrari’s grand touring tradition.
2. How fast is the Ferrari 812 Superfast?
It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph, making it one of the fastest grand tourers on the market.
3. Is the 812 Superfast comfortable for long journeys?
While it’s designed as a grand tourer, its firm suspension, tire noise, and high engine revs make it less than ideal for long-distance cruising.
4. What kind of engine does the 812 Superfast have?
The Ferrari 812 Superfast features a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine, producing 800 horsepower.
5. How much does the Ferrari 812 Superfast cost?
Prices start at approximately $300,000, though this can increase significantly with customizations and optional features.
6. Does the 812 Superfast come with modern technology?
Yes, it includes features like Apple CarPlay, USB ports, and a passenger display, ensuring it’s equipped for modern drivers.
7. What is the most iconic feature of the 812 Superfast?
The naturally aspirated V12 engine is its most iconic feature, representing a dying breed of high-performance engines in an increasingly electrified world.