Ferrari 812 Superfast 2018

The 2018 Ferrari 812 Superfast is the latest model in a Ferrari lineage that can be traced all the way back to the 1960s: the V12-powered two-seater. The 812 Superfast replaces the F12berlinetta, which itself replaced the 599 GTB. V12 Ferrari models before this included the 550 Maranello, Testarossa and more -- all the way back to the beloved 275 GTB.

But the 812 Superfast certainly offers the most impressive performance yet. That's courtesy of its massive V12 engine: a 6.5-liter affair with 789 horsepower, which is mated to a dual-clutch automatic that can send the car from zero to 60 in 2.9 seconds -- and to a top speed of 210 miles per hour. The Superfast's 789 hp means it has 58 more horses than the already-amazing F12berlinetta, and the added horsepower gives the Superfast a performance edge.

Despite the huge power boost (and the new engine), however, the 812 Superfast's design doesn't differ sharply from the F12berlinetta's. It's more evolution than revolution, with new curves and angles -- but an overall shape that's largely similar, including a long front hood and a handsome sloping rear end. Inside, the 812 Superfast looks like it's sure to impress, with high-quality equipment and modern controls and displays.

These performance levels were achieved in part by optimising the engine design and in part by introducing innovations, such as the use of a 350 bar direct injection system for the very first time on a spark-ignition engine, and the control system for the variable geometry inlet tracts, developed on naturally-aspirated F1 engines, which is a further evolution on its application on the special limited-series F12tdf.

These systems allow the increase in displacement from 6.2 to 6.5 litres to be exploited to maximise power output whilst retaining excellent pick-up even at low revs.

The high pressure injection system also improves nebulisation of the injected fuel thus dramatically reducing the the amount of particulates emitted when the catalytic converter is warming up, ensuring the engine complies with all emissions regulations.

The engine's maximum power-to-fuel consumption ratio has also been improved, attesting to the engine's exceptional efficiency in urban driving contexts. This was achieved in part as a result of Stop&Start On the Move strategies which cut and restart the engine while the car is moving.

Particular attention was also paid to calibrating the Manettino settings to enhance the engine's potential and the sensation of extreme power delivered by the car. That said, the driver will always be able to easily and confidently dose the massive torque available with the accelerator pedal, thanks to smooth, progressive power delivery at all engine speeds.

The result of all these developments is a boost in maximum power output to 800 cv at 8,500 rpm (an impressive 60 cv more than the F12berlinetta) and maximum torque of 718 Nm @ 7,000 rpm - a completely unprecedented achievement for a naturally-aspirated Ferrari production engine.

A significant 80% of maximum torque is available at just 3,500 rpm, improving both flexibility and pick-up at lower revs. The shape of the power curve, which rises constantly all the way to the maximum revs of 8,500 rpm, and the rapidity with which engine speed increases, thanks to low inertia, give occupants the feeling of boundless power and acceleration. The latter sensation comes courtesy of the overall increase in maximum power output and the optimisation of the aforementioned power curve between 6,500 and 8,900 rpm, which maximises the average horse power exploitable for press-on track driving when engine revs are kept consistently high.

The exhaust system geometry was evolved to increase and balance the sound from the engine compartment and tailpipes, with a 6-into-1 manifold. The aim being, of course, to enhance the car's already extreme, sporty character. The resulting engine sound is strong and smooth inside the cabin in all driving conditions.

Technical Specifications

Engine
Type: V12 - 65°
Overall displacement: 6496 cc
Bore and stroke: 94 mm x 78 mm
Max. power output: 588 kW (800 cv) at 8,500 rpm
Max. torque: 718 Nm at 7,000 rpm
Max. engine speed: 8,900 rpm
Compression ratio: 13.64:1
Dimensions and weight
Length: 4,657 mm
Width: 1,971 mm
Height: 1,276 mm
Wheelbase: 2,720 mm
Front track: 1,672 mm
Rear track: 1,645 mm
Kerb weight: 1,630 kg
Dry weight: 1,525 kg
Weight distribution: 47% front - 53% rear
Fuel tank capacity: 92 l
Wheels & tyres
Front: 275/35 ZR20; 10" J x 20"
Rear: 315/35 ZR20; 11.5" J x 20"
Brakes
Front: 398 mm x 38 mm
Rear: 360 mm x 32 mm
Transmission/gearbox: 4WS/ 7-speed F1 DCT/ E-Diff3
Electronic controls: SSC5/CST with F1-Trac, ESP 9.1 Premium with High-performance ABS/EBD, dual-coil SCM-E
Performance
Max. speed: 340 km/h
0-100 km/h: 2.9 sec
0-200 km/h: 7.9 sec
Dry weight/power: 1.9 kg
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption: 14.9 l/100 km
Emissions: 340g CO2/km