Ferrari 812: The Last Great V12

both as a mechanical marvel and a swan song for naturally aspirated V12s. This blog explores the full history of the Ferrari 812, from its conceptual roots to its modern-day variations, and why it may be remembered as the last of its kind.-Rafael Benavente

Ferrari 812: The Last Great V12

The Ferrari 812: A Legacy of Naturally Aspirated Power and Italian Brilliance

When it comes to high-performance luxury automobiles, few names evoke emotion and prestige like Ferrari. The Italian marque has long dominated the supercar world with stunning design, raw power, and a lineage steeped in motorsport history. Among its many iconic vehicles, the Ferrari 812 stands as a monumental achievement—both as a mechanical marvel and a swan song for naturally aspirated V12s. This blog explores the full history of the Ferrari 812, from its conceptual roots to its modern-day variations, and why it may be remembered as the last of its kind.

The Ferrari V12 Legacy

Before diving into the 812 itself, it’s essential to understand the backdrop: Ferrari’s V12 heritage. Enzo Ferrari's first car, the 125 S, was powered by a 1.5-liter V12 engine, setting a precedent that would shape the brand’s identity for decades. Over the years, the V12 evolved, growing in displacement, sophistication, and power output, appearing in legendary models like the 250 GTO, 275 GTB, Daytona, 599 GTB Fiorano, and F12berlinetta.

By the 2010s, the automotive world began moving toward turbocharging and hybridization. Yet Ferrari remained committed to perfecting the naturally aspirated V12, and in 2017, that commitment culminated in the debut of the Ferrari 812 Superfast.

2017: The Birth of the Ferrari 812 Superfast

Unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2017, the Ferrari 812 Superfast was the successor to the F12berlinetta. The name wasn’t just marketing hyperbole—the 812 was indeed the fastest and most powerful naturally aspirated production Ferrari ever built.

Specifications at Launch:

  • Engine: 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12
  • Power Output: 789 horsepower (800 CV)
  • Torque: 718 Nm (530 lb-ft)
  • 0–60 mph: 2.8 seconds
  • Top Speed: 211 mph (340 km/h)
  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
  • Layout: Front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive

Ferrari achieved this stunning performance by increasing the F12’s engine displacement and tweaking internal components for improved airflow and combustion. The 812’s V12 revved to a glorious 8,900 RPM, creating an auditory experience unmatched by any turbocharged rival.

Design: Aggression Meets Elegance

The 812 Superfast was designed by Ferrari’s in-house team at the Centro Stile in Maranello. It introduced a more muscular and sculpted body compared to the F12, with aggressive lines and functional aerodynamics.

Key Features:

  • Active Aerodynamics: Integrated air ducts and underbody flaps improved downforce and cooling.
  • LED Headlights: Sleek, horizontal units integrated into the sculpted hood.
  • Quad Exhaust: Four tailpipes signaling the car’s high-performance intent.

Despite its performance focus, the 812 didn’t sacrifice comfort. The interior featured leather-wrapped surfaces, intuitive infotainment, and dual digital screens for the driver.

2019: Ferrari 812 GTS – The Return of the V12 Spider

Ferrari stunned the world again in 2019 with the 812 GTS—the first front-engine V12 convertible from the brand in nearly 50 years. The last one, the 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider, had become a collector’s item, and the GTS was instantly seen as a spiritual successor.

812 GTS Highlights:

  • Retractable Hard Top: Opens in 14 seconds, operable at speeds up to 28 mph.
  • Same V12 Engine: No power detuning—789 hp as in the coupe.
  • Structural Reinforcement: Maintained chassis rigidity without significant weight penalty.

The GTS added open-air drama to the 812’s performance, allowing drivers to savor the V12’s roar without a roof muffling the sound.

Limited Editions and Track Focused Variants

Ferrari didn’t stop with just the standard 812. In 2021, it released two ultra-exclusive variants for the brand’s most passionate customers.

Ferrari 812 Competizione

A more hardcore, track-focused version of the 812 Superfast, the Competizione pushed engineering limits even further.

  • Power Output: 819 hp (830 CV)
  • Redline: 9,500 RPM
  • Weight Reduction: Extensive use of carbon fiber and titanium
  • Rear-Wheel Steering: Enhanced agility and stability

The Competizione also featured a redesigned front air intake, carbon-fiber blade elements across the hood, and a fixed rear spoiler.

Ferrari 812 Competizione A (Aperta)

A limited-run targa-style convertible, the Competizione A offered the same performance with added open-air excitement. Only 599 units of each variant were made, making them among the most coveted Ferraris of the modern era.

Driving Dynamics: A Balanced Beast

What truly made the 812 extraordinary was its usability. Despite supercar performance figures, the car was remarkably refined for daily driving.

Technologies That Made It Happen:

  • Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0 (rear-wheel steering)
  • Magnetorheological Suspension
  • Side Slip Control 5.0
  • Electric Power Steering (a first for a Ferrari V12)

The result? Incredible grip, nimbleness, and responsiveness despite the front-engine layout. Unlike many supercars, the 812 didn’t feel intimidating on the road—it begged to be driven.

Cultural and Collector Impact

The Ferrari 812 series has already begun carving its place in automotive history. As governments push for EV adoption and tighter emissions regulations, it may be the final non-hybrid, naturally aspirated V12 Ferrari ever produced. That fact alone makes it immensely collectible.

Many collectors and enthusiasts see the 812 as the culmination of Ferrari’s analog-meets-digital mastery. It retains old-school charm with new-school precision. Its value on the resale market—especially the GTS and Competizione models—has remained strong, often trading above MSRP.

The Future of the V12

Ferrari has hinted that its next-generation V12 may include hybrid assistance, similar to what Lamborghini has done with the Revuelto. While that could enhance performance, it also signals a major philosophical shift. The 812, in all its forms, may well be the last Ferrari V12 without a turbocharger or electric motor.

Final Thoughts: Why the Ferrari 812 Matters

The Ferrari 812 isn’t just a fast car—it’s a historical marker. It celebrates seven decades of V12 excellence and closes a chapter that began with Enzo Ferrari himself. Whether you admire it for its engineering brilliance, its aesthetic purity, or its thundering sound, the 812 is a machine that stirs the soul.

In an age of electric whirs and artificial noise, the Ferrari 812 remains gloriously mechanical—a fitting farewell to the naturally aspirated V12 era.

By Rafael Benavente

Credit: Original inspiration and technical references courtesy of Ferrari S.p.A and press archives from Geneva International Motor Show, 2017–2021.