After teasing and enticing the motoring world for weeks, Ferrari has finally lifted the wraps off its F12 Berlinetta – the fastest road-going car the firm has ever built.
The new Prancing Horse’s impressive 6 262 cc V12 engine has a maximum power output of 544 kW. At 2 500 r/min F12 Berlinetta drivers had better hold on, because the 690 N.m of torque will kick in from there and be available until the engine reaches a speed of 8 700 r/min. This engine is mated with an F1 dual-clutch transmission and helps the F12 Berlinetta achieve a zero to 100 km/h time of 3,1 seconds. For those of a daring disposition, the top speed is claimed to be “over 340 km/h”.
Despite high power outputs, Ferrari has tried to keep fuel consumption and emissions as low as possible. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures for this supercar stand at 15 litres/100 km and 350 g/km respectively.
The F12 Berlinetta features an all-new spaceframe chassis and the bodyshell uses 12 different kinds of alloys. The result is a 20 per cent increase in structural rigidity and a kerb weight of 1 525 (70 kgs lighter than the previous V12 coupe). Thanks to aerodynamic advances, Ferrari states that downforce on this vehicle is 123 kg at 200 km/h and that it has a drag coefficient figure of 0,299.
Technical highlights on the F12 Berlinetta include carbon-ceramic brake discs (CCM3), Ferrari’s magnetorheological suspension control system (SCM-E) and other control systems such as E-Diff, ESP Premium, F1-Trac, and high-performance ABS.
The F12 Berlinetta’s radical styling is a combined effort of Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina. The large smiling face, aggressive lines and neatly styled rear end render this Ferrari distinctive, yet in keeping with such stable mates as the FF. Ferrari claims that the cabin has been designed around the driver and that “the Human Machine Interface approach is emphasised, grouping all the major commands within immediate reach to guarantee maximum ergonomics for the most involving driving experience”.
The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta will officially be launched at the Geneva Motor Show next week.