The last time I remember 812 being used to designate a particular model was the supercharged Cord 812 of 1936.
This Ferrari 812 is naturally aspirated and develops 588 kW of power and 718 Nm of torque. A tad more than the Cord 812.
Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 2.9 seconds and top speed is said to be in excess of 340 km/h. The 812 is a case of Superfast by name and super-fast by nature.
The 6.5 liter V12 gets some of its power from the F1 Ferrari with a reworked direct injection system and new Formula One derived variable geometry intake tracts to increase maximum power to 588 kW at 8500 rpm and peak torque of 718 Nm at 7000 rpm, with 80 per cent of the latter available from 3500 rpm.
Compared with other exotic V12 supercars, the 812 Superfast is quicker than the 552 kW/690 Nm all-wheel-drive Lamborghini Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce – although the rear-drive Ferrari is 0.1s ‘slower’ to triple digits – and Aston Martin’s 444 kW/630 Nm Vanquish S, which takes 3.5s to hit the benchmark speed, 0.6 of a second slower.
A dedicated launch-control function will help achieve consistent times as power is fed exclusively to the rear axle before being transferred to the road via 315/35 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres.
In a first for Ferrari, the Superfast uses an electric power steering system, tuned specifically to work in unison with the suite of electronic vehicle controls including the brand’s bespoke Side Slip Control.
The 812 Superfast will also sport a new version of Ferrari’s rear-wheel steering system that was first seen on the F12 tdf – dubbed Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0 – that increases turn-in sharpness and high-speed stability.
A new aerodynamic package will also help keep the 812 steady at high speeds, with active aero flaps incorporated in the front grille, bonnet scoops to help evacuate heat and turbulent air, and sculpted bodywork to direct airflow and increase downforce.
Bonnet intakes are also designed in conjunction with new full-LED headlights, which are incorporated into the bodywork for a sleeker look and better aerodynamics, and flow directly into the wheel arches.
In its pursuit of pure performance, Ferrari has not forgone modern conveniences, with both front and rear parking sensors, and an updated information and entertainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and voice command operations fitted.
According to Ferrari, the 812 Superfast is “an uncompromising sports car that will deliver exhilarating driving both on road and track yet also be comfortable enough to allow its owners to enjoy it as an all-round experience”.
