Ferrari 812 Superfast
2017-2024
The 812 Superfast embodies Ferrari's commitment to the naturally aspirated V12 experience in an era of forced induction. It delivers visceral, linear power delivery with a soundtrack that defines automotive passion, wrapped in a package that can cross continents with ease.
Quick Take
The 812 Superfast is Ferrari's flagship front-engine grand tourer, featuring the most powerful naturally aspirated V12 ever produced by Ferrari. It combines exceptional performance with surprising daily usability, serving as the spiritual successor to the F12berlinetta.
Best For
Key Strength
Legendary V12 Engine
Watch For
Maintenance Reality
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
As potentially the last of Ferrari's naturally aspirated front-engine V12 supercars, the 812 carries forward a lineage dating back to the 250 GT and Daytona. It represents six decades of refinement in the classic Ferrari formula of a powerful V12 mounted ahead of the driver.
Design Philosophy
The 812's design balances aggressive aerodynamic efficiency with classic Ferrari proportions, featuring active aerodynamic elements that optimize downforce and cooling. Every curve serves a purpose, from the dramatic side air intakes to the integrated rear spoiler that deploys at speed.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The 6.5L V12 delivers power in a relentless, linear surge that builds to an 8,900 RPM crescendo, with 80% of its torque available from just 3,500 RPM. Unlike turbocharged competitors, it responds instantly to throttle inputs with an immediacy that feels almost telepathic.
Chassis Dynamics
Despite its front-engine layout, the 812 rotates with surprising eagerness thanks to advanced stability systems and rear-wheel steering. The magnetic dampers provide a remarkable balance between track-focused precision and grand touring comfort across varied road surfaces.
Sound Signature
The V12's howl builds from a cultured growl to a spine-tingling wail that peaks near 9,000 RPM, creating one of the most emotionally stirring soundtracks in automotive history.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 produces 789 horsepower and one of the greatest engine notes ever created. This powerplant represents the pinnacle of Ferrari's atmospheric engine development, delivering linear power delivery and an intoxicating soundtrack that builds to an 8,500 rpm crescendo.
The 812's combination of rear-wheel steering, magnetorheological dampers, and sophisticated traction control creates handling precision that few supercars can match. The car rotates beautifully through corners while maintaining stability at high speeds, making it surprisingly accessible despite its extreme performance capabilities.
Honest Tradeoffs
Ferrari ownership comes with significant ongoing costs including annual services that can exceed $3,000-5,000. The sophisticated systems and hand-built nature mean even minor repairs can be expensive, and finding qualified technicians outside Ferrari dealers can be challenging.
Despite being Ferrari's grand tourer, the 812 is still quite compromised for daily use. The low nose scrapes easily, visibility is limited, and the firm suspension can be punishing on poor roads, making it more of a weekend special than a daily driver.
Ideal Owner
Ferrari purists who demand the ultimate naturally aspirated V12 experience and appreciate the romance of traditional Ferrari engineering. Perfect for those who want track-day capability without sacrificing grand touring refinement.