In the pantheon of automotive legends, few names evoke as much passion and prestige as Ferrari. And among its modern masterpieces, the Ferrari 812 Superfast stands tall—not just as a car, but as a visceral experience. It’s the embodiment of speed, style, and engineering brilliance, and it may well be the final chapter in Ferrari’s naturally aspirated V12 saga.
🧨 Power Unleashed: A V12 Without Apology
At the heart of the 812 Superfast lies a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing a jaw-dropping 800 cv (789 horsepower) at 8500 rpm2. This makes it the most powerful front-engined Ferrari road car ever built. With 529 lb-ft of torque, 80% of which is available from just 3500 rpm, the acceleration is relentless and linear.
The name “Superfast” isn’t marketing fluff—it’s a promise. The car rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph). And unlike turbocharged rivals, the 812’s V12 delivers its power with a crescendo of sound that builds to a spine-tingling climax at 8900 rpm.
🧠 Engineering That Thinks Ahead
Ferrari didn’t just build a fast car—they built a smart one. The 812 Superfast features a transaxle layout, placing the engine up front and the transmission at the rear for optimal weight distribution. It’s also the first Ferrari to introduce Electric Power Steering (EPS), integrated with the brand’s suite of electronic driving aids.
Among these systems is Virtual Short Wheelbase, a four-wheel steering setup that enhances agility and stability. Combined with F1-Trac, Side Slip Control, and a lightning-fast 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 812 feels both ferocious and forgiving.
🎯 Handling: Precision Meets Drama
Despite its grand tourer status, the 812 Superfast handles like a track weapon. The chassis is tuned for responsiveness, with revised suspension geometry and active dampers that adapt to road conditions in real time. The steering is razor-sharp, and thanks to rear-wheel steering, turn-in is immediate and intuitive.
Braking is handled by massive carbon-ceramic Brembo discs—398 mm at the front and 360 mm at the rear—providing fade-free stopping power even under extreme conditions. And while it wears Pirelli P Zeros instead of track-focused Corsas, Ferrari insists this choice was deliberate: the 812 is meant to be a road car first, not just a weekend toy.
🎨 Design: Sculpted for Speed
The 812 Superfast is a visual symphony. Its long hood, muscular haunches, and aggressive front fascia scream performance, while subtle aerodynamic tweaks—like active flaps and rear diffusers—enhance downforce without compromising elegance.
Every curve serves a purpose. The rear design channels airflow efficiently, while the front splitter and side skirts reduce drag. It’s a car that looks fast standing still—and even faster in motion.
Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and purpose. Leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber wrap the surfaces, while the dashboard layout emphasizes driver engagement. The steering wheel features Ferrari’s signature manettino dial, allowing quick access to driving modes. It’s a cockpit built for thrill-seekers.
🌍 A Dying Breed?
In an era of electrification and downsizing, the 812 Superfast is a glorious anomaly. It doesn’t whisper—it roars. It doesn’t compromise—it celebrates excess. And that’s precisely why it’s so beloved.
Ferrari has already begun transitioning to hybrid and electric platforms, making the 812 one of the last naturally aspirated V12s in its lineup. Its successor, the Ferrari 12Cilindri, continues the front-engine V12 tradition but with a modern reinterpretation. Still, for purists, the 812 remains the pinnacle of unfiltered performance.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Legend in Motion
Driving the Ferrari 812 Superfast is not just about speed—it’s about sensation. The howl of the V12, the precision of the steering, the surge of acceleration—it all combines into a symphony of motion. It’s a car that demands attention, rewards skill, and ignites passion.
Whether you’re carving through mountain passes or cruising along coastal highways, the 812 makes every journey unforgettable. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement. A celebration of what driving used to be, and what it still can be.
