First Drive: Ferrari 812 Superfast

While we’re on the numbers, the top speed is 211mph, with 0-62mph in 2.9 seconds and 0-125mph in only 7.9 seconds.

The naturally aspirated V12 develops its peak power of 789bhp up near the red line at a screaming 8,500rpm. The peak torque of 530lb ft (718Nm) is delivered at a similarly heady 7,000rpm, with 80 per cent of that available at 3,500rpm, thanks to the use of a 350-bar direct-injection system along with variable geometry intake tracts derived from its Formula 1 experience. The seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission features reduced times between up- and down-shifts.

Although the 812 Superfast (incidentally, the name first appeared on the lovely 500 Superfast of 1964) is based on the F12 berlinetta and replaces it at the top of the Ferrari range, it actually has more in common with the more extreme F12tdf, which was honed to provide a sharper driving experience at the expense of driveability and comfort. The best of both worlds, in other words.

You could write a book on the revisions to the 65-degree V12 compared with the F12berlinetta, but suffice to say it’s 75% new with only the major castings being carried over.

The major change is an increase in capacity from 6,282cc to 6,496cc thanks to a longer stroke, together with reductions in internal friction. The power is both real and sensory, in that the gear ratios are shorter to further improve responsiveness.

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the 812 Superfast certainly looks the part. The influence of the F12 is clear but study it closely and there’s a huge amount of aerodynamic trickery incorporated in the sleek design so there’s no need for ungainly spoilers and bodywork addenda. The airflow around the front, the sides and the wheels is managed by a system of ducts incorporating active and passive aerodynamics to produce downforce while reducing lift and turbulence around the high tail, which is reminiscent of the famed 365 GTB4 'Daytona' of 1969. 

Inside, Ferrari has retained the feeling of space and comfort that buyers of its V12s demand, although there’s a sportier look compared with the F12, along with new seats, steering wheel and instrument clusters, as well as upgraded infotainment and air-conditioning units.

That aircon was put to the test as we drove the 812 on the roads around the Ferrari factory in Maranello in 36-degree heat, together with a few laps of the company’s Fiorano test track.

On the road it is simply mighty. Anything with this amount of power is bound to feel special but in the congested towns the 812 is so benign that it’s almost anti-climactic.

Let it off the leash in the nearby Apennine hills, however, and it’s a snarling, crackling road-burner that commands respect as you’re inevitably travelling a lot faster than you imagine. The faster you go, the better it gets.

The most impressive feat is its composure at any speed, even over some truly awful surfaces. The best setting is Sport (selected as usual by the manettino switch on the steering wheel) to get sharper responses from engine and gearbox, together with the excellent ‘bumpy road’ suspension setting that provides a degree of suspension compliance for comfort with rapid responses.

Set up thus, it was simply devastating, the whole car seeming to shrink and displaying a nimbleness that something of this size (and with a big V12 in the nose) has any right to.

On the Fiorano circuit, we were able to assess the raft of electronic aids by setting everything to normal than gradually dialling out the assistance. It’s remarkable how Ferrari has engineered in stages of help so your driving is really flattered yet you always feel in control and yet have the confidence of a safety net should you get it badly wrong.

Powering out of the turns the 812 will smoke its tyres in almost any gear yet at the same time it’s incredibly progressive and controllable. 

It is the first Ferrari with electric power steering, which is calibrated to work in tandem with the battery of electronic vehicle dynamics controls, including the latest version of Ferrari’s patented Side Slip Control (SCC). As with most modern steering systems, there’s little feedback but it’s never anything less than direct and responsive. Combined with the chassis electronics, it provides the confidence to explore the car’s limits in the knowledge that it will provide plenty of warning that you’re approaching the limit of adhesion.

Here's to the 812 Superfast finding its way to a famed stretch of driveway in rural picturesque West Sussex sooner or later.

Photography courtesy of Lorenzo Marcinno