Ferrari F12berlinetta

Why it matters

Revealed at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the F12berlinetta succeeded the 599 GTB Fiorano and represented the zenith of Ferrari's front-engined V12 grand-tourer engineering at the time. Its 6,262 cc naturally aspirated engine produced 730 hp at 8,250 rpm and 690 Nm of torque, driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle. Ferrari shortened the wheelbase, lowered the engine, dashboard and seats, and concentrated mass within the wheelbase to achieve a 46:54 weight distribution and exceptional agility. Pininfarina and the Ferrari Styling Centre shaped the body around functional aerodynamics: the signature Aero Bridge guided air from the bonnet along the flanks to increase downforce, while Active Brake Cooling ducts opened only when required to reduce drag. The car generated 123 kg of downforce at 200 km/h while maintaining a remarkably low drag coefficient. Ferrari quoted 0–100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, 0–200 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed above 340 km/h. A 1 minute 23 second Fiorano lap made it faster around Ferrari's test circuit than every previous series-production road car. The F12berlinetta combined immense performance with luggage space, refinement and long-distance usability, establishing the foundation for the later F12tdf and 812 Superfast.