FYI: Ferrari’s 812 Superfast and 812 Competizione redefine front-engine V12 supercars, setting new benchmarks for speed and engineering excellence.
Ferrari’s 812 Evolution: The Superfast and Competizione
Geneva Motor Show 2017: The Birth of a Legend
At the prestigious 2017 Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari introduced the 812 Superfast, a continuation in its storied lineage of front-engine twelve-cylinder flagship GTs, which began with the 550 Maranello. Succeeding the F12 Berlinetta, the 812 Superfast was marketed as “the fastest and most powerful Ferrari yet.”
2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione © RM Sotheby’s
Unleashing the 812 Competizione
Ferrari engineers aimed to push boundaries even further by evolving the 812 Superfast into the 812 Competizione. Building on a legacy that includes models like the 599 GTO and the F12TdF, the new 812 Competizione saw substantial performance enhancements.
Improved Powertrain
The 6.5-liter V12 engine saw numerous upgrades, including lighter internals, new cylinder heads, and low-friction coatings with a revised oiling system. These meticulous improvements enabled the engine to produce a staggering 819 horsepower, achieving a redline at a jaw-dropping 9,500 rpm.
2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione © RM Sotheby’s
Aerodynamic Mastery
The reimagined bodywork of the 812 Competizione features significant aerodynamic enhancements, ensuring the vehicle remains planted at high speeds. One of the most striking design elements is the wind-tunnel-tuned rear panel, which replaces the traditional rear windscreen, accentuating the car’s distinctive profile.
2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione © RM Sotheby’s
A Fitting Farewell?
The 812 Competizione is speculated to be Ferrari’s final non-hybrid, naturally aspirated 12-cylinder supercar—potentially marking the end of an era that began with Ferrari’s inception in 1947. With only 500 units produced, they were swiftly claimed by enthusiasts, cementing the 812 Competizione’s status as an instant classic.
2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione © RM Sotheby’s
Conclusion
Ferrari’s dedication to pushing the limits of engineering and design is embodied in the 812 Superfast and further perfected in the 812 Competizione. These vehicles not only underscore Ferrari’s illustrious past but also set a new standard for future supercars. The 812 Competizione, in particular, represents a significant closing chapter, resonating deeply with Ferrari aficionados and automotive enthusiasts alike.
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William Rapp, Editor of Super Cars for automotive.fyi online publication
