Ferrari reveals 789bhp 812 Superfast 17 | 02 | 2017
FERRARI HAS REVEALED its most powerful series model yet. The 812 Superfast, which will make its public debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show before going on-sale at Graypaul’s Ferrari Edinburgh, is essentially a significantly upgraded version of the F12 Berlinetta.
But significantly, the new model is powered by a larger, naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine and introduces new chassis technology to the range.
Delivering 789bhp at 8500rpm and 530lb/ft of torque at 7000rpm, the engine in the 812 Superfast is 234cc larger than that of the F12. And the figures even outperform those of the hardcore F12tdf, which offered a maximum of 770bhp and 520lb/ft of torque.
Officially the most potent front-mounted engine fitted to a production car, it’s expected to be Ferrari’s final pure V12 engine before it shifts to hybrid assistance or turbocharging.
Mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the rear-wheel drive 812 Superfast will hit 62mph from standstill in an eye-watering 2.9secs. It’ll then carry on to a top speed in excess of 211mph. These figures are identical to the F12tdf, despite the 812 Superfast’s 110kg heavier dry weight of 1525kg.
The 812 Superfast is the first Ferrari to get electric power steering, and has been developed to work with Ferrari’s Slide Slip Control technology, which has proven to enhance agility in other models such as the 488 GTB.
Another innovation is the use of the second generation of Virtual Short Wheelbase, which is an evolution of the first-gen system used on the F12tdf and sharpens the car’s handling to give quicker steering response times.
While inside the cabin there’s a more angular dash with an updated instrument cluster display, externally the 812 Superfast gets a more aggressive look with a new grille, more prominent aerodynamic features and new LED lights. There’s also active aerodynamic flaps at the front to boost downforce or reduce drag, depending what’s required.
Related: New Ferrari 488 Challenge
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Jim McGill