The newest Ferrari, the 812, revives the name of one of the company’s classic mid-1960’s Ferrari America models: the 500 Superfast. Judging by the design, it’s not only a historical homage. It’s a hyper-performance take on an American ‘fastback,’ aligning marketing appeal with a prevailing road-fashion in the ‘States: muscle car homage.
In keeping, the 812 Superfast’s engine is steroidal, and naturally aspirated; speculatively, their final naturally aspirated production engine. With a top speed of over 211MPH, and a 0-60 time of less than three seconds, the Superfast earns its distinction as the quickest production model of the company’s storied history building very fast cars. It’s equipped with a 6.5L V12, a monster that produces nearly 790HP, as well as a 350-bar direct injection system. Transmission is seven-speed, dual clutch; the company promises even faster shift times than the F12berlinetta, the 812’s progenitor.
The 812 Superfast is also a bit of a mechanical smartcar. A new electronic steering system developed by the company delivers improved turning precision; it is a digital system, so it becomes part and parcel of the car’s overall stability matrix, compensating as necessary for road conditions, airflow, acceleration, and braking with continuous suspension, aerodynamics, and fuel intake adjustments.
Additionally, the 812 is meant to be a broad-spectrum driver, not only a grand tourer limited to quiet alpine switchbacks or straightaways where drivers are able to put the car through its meta-engineered paces. So, Ferrari’s Virtual Short Wheelbase system adjusts for residential and urban driving by electronically adjusting the car’s suspension and response to mimic a smaller car.
The 812 will be offered in Rosso Settanta, a special color developed specifically for the model. It will debut at the Geneva International Motor Show next month.